Manager, Water Purification

Position Overview

A leading industrial organization is seeking a senior leader to oversee complex wastewater and environmental treatment operations within a large-scale manufacturing environment. This role carries full accountability for the performance, reliability, and compliance of advanced wastewater treatment systems, including biological, chemical, and mechanical processes. The position plays a critical role in protecting environmental outcomes while ensuring consistent operational execution across a multi-system facility.

Professional Responsibility and Scope

This individual will direct the operation of multiple wastewater treatment processes, including influent and effluent management, solids handling, and water recovery systems. Oversight includes monitoring system performance, adjusting treatment parameters, and ensuring proper function of pumps, piping networks, filtration systems, and process equipment.

The role requires deep involvement in process control, including managing flow rates, treatment chemistry, biological system health, and overall system balance to maintain discharge quality within regulatory limits. The individual will lead troubleshooting efforts, coordinate preventative and corrective maintenance, and partner with internal and external resources to execute system upgrades and capital improvements.

Regulatory oversight is a central component of the role, including responsibility for sampling programs, laboratory coordination, reporting, and maintaining full compliance with federal, state, and local environmental requirements. This individual will also serve as a key point of contact for regulatory agencies and community stakeholders as needed.

In addition, the role includes leadership of a technical team, with responsibility for coaching, performance management, and workforce planning to ensure strong operational continuity and development of internal talent.

Location and Lifestyle Context

This opportunity is based in the Midwest within a well-established industrial operation. The region offers a balanced lifestyle with access to outdoor recreation, strong community infrastructure, and a cost of living that supports long-term stability.

Long Term Professional Growth

This role offers the opportunity to lead highly specialized wastewater infrastructure within a complex industrial setting. The organization supports continued professional development and provides pathways into broader operational leadership, environmental strategy, or multi-site responsibility for high-performing individuals.

Compensation

This position offers a comprehensive total rewards package that includes base salary, performance-based incentives, and a full suite of benefits. Details will be shared directly with qualified candidates.

Team Environment and Leadership Approach

The organization values a hands-on leadership style grounded in accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Leaders are expected to engage closely with their teams, drive operational discipline, and foster a culture of safety, compliance, and technical excellence.

Organizational Stability and Industry Position

The company is a well-established and financially stable operator within its sector, with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and ongoing investment in infrastructure. The organization maintains a long-term perspective on operational excellence and sustainability.

Experience and Qualification Summary

Candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree in engineering, environmental science, or a related discipline, along with significant experience managing wastewater treatment operations in an industrial setting.

Experience with biological treatment processes, solids management, water chemistry, and system troubleshooting is essential. Candidates should bring a strong understanding of regulatory compliance, including sampling, reporting, and permit management.

Leadership experience overseeing technical teams is required, along with demonstrated ability to optimize treatment processes and maintain high system performance. Relevant operator certifications are strongly preferred.