JOB ANNOUNCEMENT:
STEPHENS COUNTY RURAL WATER DISTRICT #1
611 Waldroup
Velma, OK. 73491
580-444-2277
JOB DETAILS: FULL TIME, SALARIED EMPLOYEE
STARTING PAY: $58,000 (Dependent on qualifications)
BENEFITS: Employee Health insurance
Employee Dental insurance
Employee Vision insurance
Employee Life insurance
Employee Retirement
NOTE: ADDITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS AND/OR FAMILY ADDITIONS WILL BE PAID BY EMPLOYEE.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES, OPERATIONS, & MAINTENANCE
District Manager is the top administrative and operational leader. This role reports directly to the elected Board of Directors and oversees the entire district to ensure reliable, safe, compliant drinking water service to rural customers.
Rural districts are typically small nonprofits or public entities with limited staff, so the District Manager often handles a broad mix of executive, financial, operational, and community responsibilities—bridging the gap between the board’s policy decisions and day-to-day execution.
Overall Leadership and Oversight
Directs all aspects of the district’s operations, including water treatment (if the district has its own plant), distribution systems, maintenance, infrastructure upgrades, and emergency response. Ensures the system delivers safe, high-quality water in compliance with Oklahoma DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality), EPA, and Safe Drinking Water Act standards.
Supervision of Staff and Operations
Supervises certified operators (like the Head Operator), field crews, helpers/assistants, and any administrative personnel. Assigns tasks, manages schedules (including on-call rotations), conducts performance evaluations, and provides training. The manager will directly participate in or oversee technical fieldwork.
Financial Management and Budgeting
Prepares, manages, and monitors the annual operating and capital improvement budgets. Tracks expenditures, ensures financial transparency and sound practices, oversees billing/collections/customer accounts, and maintains accurate financial reporting. Pursues funding sources like USDA Rural Development grants/loans, Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) financing, American Rescue Plan Act funds, or State Revolving Fund programs for system improvements.
Regulatory Compliance and Reporting
Ensures full compliance with state/federal regulations, including water quality monitoring, sampling, reporting to DEQ/EPA, and record-keeping. Coordinates with regulators during inspections or audits, and advises the board on any compliance issues.
Strategic Planning and Infrastructure Development
Develops long-term plans for system growth, upgrades (e.g., replacing lines, installing booster pumps, or new wells), and capital projects. Works with engineers, contractors, and funding agencies to implement improvements. Represents the district in public meetings, regional water groups, and with state/federal agencies.
Customer Service and Community Relations
Handles customer inquiries, complaints, and service issues (e.g., leaks, pressure problems, billing disputes). Promotes community engagement, transparency, and education about water conservation or system needs. The position involves direct interaction with benefit unit holders (customers who own shares in the district) and serves as the primary point of contact for customers addressing concerns and service requests. Must attend Board Meetings, provide updates, and recommend operational improvements. Promotes public awareness of water conservation and district initiatives.
Emergency and Risk Management
Leads responses to emergencies like line breaks, contamination risks, outages, or natural disasters. Develops and implements contingency plans, and ensures 24/7 availability through staff rotations. Must have the ability to respond to emergencies outside of normal working hours.
Board Support and Governance
Advises the elected board on operational, financial, and regulatory matters. Prepares reports, agendas, and recommendations for board meetings. Implements board policies while managing day-to-day execution.
The District Manager’s role overlaps with operational duties, making it very hands-on. The District Manager oversees the office manager and other office personnel, but relies on the office manager for billing and financial responsibilities. Ability to respond to emergencies outside of normal working hours.