Employment
Montecito Water District is an equal opportunity employer. Montecito Water District requires equal consideration and treatment in all aspects of employment including selection, appointment, development, advancement, accommodation and all other terms and conditions of employment without regard to age, race, sex, color, religion, national original, political affiliation, ancestry, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by law. Montecito Water District invites resumes from all interested parties; if assistance is needed with the application process please contact the District as indicated in the specific listing or by telephone at 805.969.2271.
Current opportunities:
ENGINEERING MANAGER
Montecito Water District seeks a qualified candidate to join our team.
This is an outstanding opportunity for a California-licensed Professional Engineer to take on a high-impact leadership role with broad responsibility for engineering, operations, capital delivery, regulatory compliance, and long-range infrastructure planning. Reporting to the General Manager, the Engineering Manager serves as a key member of the executive management team and helps shape the future of a respected public utility organization.
Under the direction of the General Manager, the Engineering Manager plans, directs, and manages the District’s engineering and operations functions, including capital improvement planning and implementation, engineering design, construction management, development review, permitting, environmental and regulatory compliance, and water treatment and delivery operations.
This role leads and supervises engineering and operations staff, manages consultants and contractors, administers departmental budgets, and coordinates with District departments, regulatory agencies, developers, contractors, and the public. As a member of the executive management team, the Engineering Manager provides technical and strategic support to the General Manager and Board of Directors and contributes to District-wide planning, policy development, emergency response, and organizational initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the District’s engineering and operations programs in alignment with organizational priorities
- Supervise treatment and distribution superintendents and engineering staff, while supporting team development and performance
- Direct the planning, budgeting, design, permitting, construction, and implementation of the capital improvement program and infrastructure master plans
- Manage complex infrastructure and engineering projects from planning through completion
- Oversee asset management, infrastructure resiliency, and long-term capital rehabilitation planning
- Review and approve engineering studies, plans, specifications, technical reports, and cost estimates
- Oversee development review, permitting, connection requirements, fees, and inspections related to private development affecting District facilities
- Manage consultant and contractor procurement, contract negotiation, administration, performance, schedule, and budget
- Oversee environmental planning, permitting, and regulatory compliance
- Develop and administer the Engineering Department budget and related resources
- Prepare and present staff reports, recommendations, and project updates to the General Manager, Board of Directors, and committees
- Represent the District in meetings and negotiations with agencies, consultants, contractors, developers, community organizations, and the public
- Identify and implement improvements to engineering processes, systems, and service delivery
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related field from an accredited college or university
- Valid California Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in Civil Engineering or a closely related field
- Five to seven years of progressively responsible professional civil engineering experience, preferably in water utility infrastructure, capital improvement projects, and construction
- Two to three years of supervisory or managerial experience overseeing staff, consultants, and complex capital projects
- Current driver’s license
- Grade II Water Distribution and Treatment Operator Certificates required within two years of hire
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a licensed Professional Engineer with strong technical depth, leadership ability, and sound judgment. The District seeks a collaborative and effective manager who brings:
- Experience with water utility infrastructure, capital project delivery, and construction oversight
- Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, permitting requirements, environmental regulations, and engineering standards
- Strength in staff leadership, consultant and contractor management, budgeting, and organizational planning
Strong analytical skills and the ability to make practical, well-supported decisions - Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present complex issues clearly and professionally
Compensation and Benefits
Salary Range: $178,000 to $219,000
Benefits: Generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, PTO, a great work environment, and more
Work Environment
This role includes both office and field work at District facilities and project sites. Field activities may involve construction areas, uneven terrain, traffic, weather exposure, noise, chemicals, confined spaces, and mechanical or electrical hazards, along with occasional bending, climbing, kneeling, and lifting up to 30 pounds.
Position is open until filled.
Interested candidates should apply directly through The Widroe Group, the District’s retained recruitment partner.
Applicants are encouraged to supply a resume and cover letter in addition to the required application.
Please visit us again for future opportunities.
Montecito Water District's mission is to provide an adequate and reliable supply of high quality water to the residents of Montecito and Summerland, at the most reasonable cost. In carrying out this mission, the District places particular emphasis on providing outstanding customer service, conducting its operations in an environmentally sensitive manner, and working cooperatively with other agencies. For additional information visit www.montecitowater.com, like Montecito Water District on Facebook, and follow on twitter @MontecitoWater.
