Program Manager Jobs 2026 (Now Hiring) – Smart Auto Apply

California Water Service

Job Description:

California Water Service Group (Cal Water) invites you to build a meaningful career with the third largest publicly traded water utility in the United States. Guided by our mission to be the leading provider of water and wastewater services, we are dedicated to improving the quality of life for the customers, communities, and employees we serve. Our culture is grounded in core values-integrity, quality, service, value, health and safety, respect and collaboration, and corporate citizenship-and is reflected in our recognition as a Top Workplace, a Great Place to Work, and a J.D. Power leader in customer satisfaction for multiple years. Join Cal Water and be part of a purpose driven organization where your work makes a lasting impact.

The Water Quality Program Manager performs complex tasks to implement, maintain, and comply with all water quality and environmental regulations and programs within an assigned region. Primary responsibilities focus on drinking water public health, regulatory planning and compliance, and Division of Drinking Water (DDW) permitting. This position is located in Bakersfield, California.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Performs complex tasks to ensure compliance with water quality regulations within the assigned region
• Communicates in a timely manner with the DDW as required to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal water quality regulations
• Primary liaison between the Company, districts, state and federal agencies, the Division of Drinking Water (DDW) and fosters relationship with these group
• Prepares and reviews Consumer Confidence Reports, Annual Water Quality reports, Monthly reporting and any other internal and external reporting
• Communicates in a timely manner with the DDW as required to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal water quality regulation
• Develops sampling plans and assesses analytical results of raw and finished water to ensure regulatory compliance
• Obtains the appropriate permits whenever changes or modifications are made to the drinking water system
• Assesses new water supply source data to ensure quality and regulatory compliance and identifies/recommends appropriate treatment technologies for removal of contaminants
• Develops water quality monitoring schedules for sources, water treatment plants, and distribution systems in accordance with applicable regulations
• Works with the Cross Connection Control Program Manager to ensure the program is in compliance with state and federal requirements
• Trains applicable Company personnel on sample collection, water quality regulations, water treatment operations, and all other water quality-related topics
• Responds to emergencies 24/7 and works with district management to assess conditions, coordinate communication with key internal staff, and relay clear and concise information to regulators
• Manages water quality projects of various scope, schedule, and budget in coordination with the District and Engineering team
• Provides water quality input in the development of capital projects and strategic planning
• Provides guidance to all operations management staff on water quality problem-solving and regulatory compliance
• Performs analytical calculations to ensure adequate treatment of water
• Participates in and supports the Company's Continuous Improvement program and projects
• Performs other similar duties as assigned
• Exhibits behavior that supports a safety culture; attends and participates at all required safety training programs; adheres to Company Safety Policies; uses Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as appropriate, reports safety issues/concerns to management in a timely manner, and encourages others to behave in the same manner

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, or Environmental Engineering
• Three years of experience working in water quality compliance
• State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 Certification preferred (required to obtain within 1 year)
• State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 Certification preferred (required to obtain within 1 year)
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office applications
• Valid California Driver License

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of state and federal water quality regulations, including Backflow and Cross Connection Control programs
• Knowledge of Company policies and procedures
• Knowledge of water systems treatment and distribution practices
• Knowledge of and ability to apply water and environmental regulations
• Knowledge of drinking water contaminants, their standards, and all associated regulations
• Knowledge of water quality sampling, test methods, chain of custody documentation, and compliance standards
• Knowledge of treatment technologies, common treatment interferences, causes of failures, and troubleshooting
• Knowledge and ability to use Microsoft Office applications to create presentations, spreadsheets, and Word documents
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with agencies, contractors, consultants, customers, employees, and vendors
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of employees and management
• Ability to work with regulators, operators, technical staff, and customers
• Ability to think clearly and react appropriately in emergency situations
• Ability to prepare manage and analyze data
• Demonstrated commitment to outstanding customer service
• Demonstrated organizational and time management skills and ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects with competing deadlines
• Demonstrated project management skills
• Good problem-solving and trouble shooting skills
• Flexible and able to prioritize work

Salary Range: $87,200 - $162,000

Deadline to submit resume: Tuesday, June 16, 2026

The Equal Opportunity Policy of the Company is based upon the philosophy that all people should be treated fairly and with dignity. California Water Service, Hawaii Water Service, New Mexico Water Service and Washington Water Service do not discriminate against any applicant or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected class. The Company makes all employment decisions in a non-discriminatory manner. EOE, VET, DISABILITIES.