Infrastructure, Stormwater and Utilities Manager

Community Background:

West Whiteland Township is located approximately 30 miles outside of Philadelphia, in the center of Chester County surrounding the Exton Crossroads of Route 30 and Route 100. We are a suburban community of 19,600 residents and a daytime population over 26,000. As the Township plans and adapts to climate change, additional staff are needed who enjoy new challenges.

The Position:

The Public Works Department’s 16 employees are responsible for maintaining the Township’s infrastructure, including 70 miles of road, storm sewers and the sanitary sewer pump stations and collection system, as well as 11 parks, the Township Building and municipal fleet. One of the parks is new and amenities will be added this year to our flagship Exton Park. Drainage projects are becoming an increasingly important part of road maintenance.

The Infrastructure, Stormwater and Utility (ISU) Manager in partnership with the Public Works Operations Manager leads the Public Works Department, providing direction for staff through solid planning, management and accountability.

The ISU Manager oversees the operation, maintenance, repair, and improvement of a municipality's stormwater drainage system and other utility infrastructure, including sewer lines, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, managing projects, and coordinating with other departments to maintain efficient utility services within the community. 

The ideal candidate will bring a mix of new ideas and proven practices to the position. Our staff is the key to our success, and we are seeking a manager who will give employees the opportunity to maximize their potential and meet the community’s standards of service in a positive work environment. The Manager is expected to have strong leadership, communication and people skills, the ability to manage in a busy environment, and familiarity with reading construction plans.

Candidates must have progressively more responsible management experience in building and construction, public works, property maintenance, environmental science, sustainability, or a related field. To complement existing experience in the department, experience with sewer and stormwater maintenance or construction is preferred. A bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, public administration or a discipline relevant to the position is desired. 

Key Responsibilities include:

Stormwater Management:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive stormwater management plan to comply with NPDES permits and local regulations. 
• Conduct inspections of stormwater systems, including drainage ditches, pipes, and outfalls, to identify potential issues. 
• Manage stormwater mitigation projects, including the design and construction of best management practices (BMPs) like rain gardens and bioswales. 
• Oversee the implementation of public education campaigns on stormwater pollution prevention. 

Utility Operations:

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the Township sewer systems, including maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. 
• Monitor water quality and pressure levels, addressing any issues promptly. 
• Oversee utility billing and customer service related to water and sewer usage. 

Project Management:

• Identify and prioritize infrastructure improvement projects for stormwater and utility systems. 
• Develop project budgets, timelines, and specifications. 
• Coordinate with engineering consultants on design plans and specifications for infrastructure projects.
• Manage contractors during construction projects, ensuring compliance with permits and quality standards.
• Monitor project progress and address any issues that may arise during construction.

Infrastructure Management:

• Conduct regular inspections of roads, utilities, and stormwater drainage systems to identify potential issues and prioritize repairs.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance programs for roads, utilities, and stormwater systems.
• Oversee the repair and replacement of damaged roads, pipes, and drainage structures.
• Manage capital improvement projects for infrastructure upgrades and expansions.

Compliance, Permitting and Reporting:

• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to road maintenance, utility operations, and stormwater management.
• Obtain necessary permits for infrastructure projects, including stormwater discharge permits.
• Monitor and report on compliance with stormwater regulations.

Public Engagement and Stakeholder Coordination:

• Respond to citizen complaints regarding road conditions, utility issues, and drainage problems.
• Collaborate with other departments within the municipality to coordinate projects and address inter-departmental concerns.
• Communicate project plans and updates to residents and businesses impacted by infrastructure work.

Budgeting and Staff Management:

• Develop and manage the department budget for stormwater and utility operations. 
• Supervise a team of technicians, operators, and maintenance personnel. 
• Provide training and professional development opportunities for staff. 

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, environmental science, or a related field and/or equivalent experience.
• Professional engineering license (PE) preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in stormwater management and utility operations.
• Knowledge of relevant regulations and permitting processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with stakeholders and the public.
• Proficiency in GIS and other relevant software 

To Apply:

To be considered, each application must include a cover letter, resume and online employment application. All applications must be submitted using the online application process. You will need to create a new account to submit your application. Once you click on Create New Account, you will be guided through the application process and be able to apply for open positions. You will use the same login information each time you apply for a job. Please apply for the position at this link. 

M/F/H/D. EOE.