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May 11, 2026

Water Supply Operations Supervisor

Job Description

Water Supply Operations Supervisor

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Water Supply Operations Supervisor

Salary

$68,702.40 - $122,428.80 Annually

Location

Des Moines - 50321 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-03020

Agency

542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Opening Date

05/07/2026

Closing Date

5/28/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-POST

Point of Contact

Lori McDaniel, lori.mcdaniel@dnr.iowa.gov, 515-423-6485

To Apply

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a resume and cover letter to the online application.

  • Description

  • Benefits

  • Questions

Job Description

WATER SUPPLY OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking a collaborative and visionary leader to serve as the front-line supervisor of the Water Supply Operations section within the Water Quality Bureau. In this critical leadership position, you will provide strategic oversight and operational direction for the section's environmental programs, analyzing organizational problems and developing timely, economical solutions. You will be tasked with establishing program objectives, assessing progress toward their achievement, and ensuring all operations are aligned with the Department's broader strategic plan. You will also be responsible for managing an operating budget of $1M.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Personnel Management:Supervise and evaluate staff to ensure maximum efficiency and timely completion of work products. Administer performance reviews, assign duties, and ensure personnel practices are conducted in accordance with department policy. Serve as a role model utilizing management strategies that promote a culture of diversity, teamwork, accountability, and ethical business practices.

  • Environmental Program Administration:Provide leadership and coordination for Drinking Water Operations and Compliance, Laboratory Certification, and Operator Certification to ensure compliance with applicable federal and state laws. Oversee the development and implementation of standard operating procedures and advise agency management on program achievements and challenges.

  • Planning, Budgeting, and Goal Setting:Develop annual goals and performance measures for the section that align with the Department's strategic plan. Develop and administer the section's budget, project expenses, and authorize expenditures for equipment, travel, supplies, and outside services.

  • Communication and Outreach:Establish processes to maintain effective communication internally with staff and externally with identified stakeholders and the general public. Share information with interested groups through occasional presentations and speaking engagements, and obtain public input on program plans and rulemaking.

  • Operational Oversight:Analyze organizational and operational problems and develop timely, economical solutions. Read and interpret complex federal and state laws, rules, and regulations.

Essential Functions

  • Provide supervision to staff and ensure bureau objectives are met.

  • Communicate effectively, verbally, and in writing with constituents, DNR staff, management personnel, legislators, Governor's staff and other state and federal agencies.

  • Analyze organizational and operational problems and develop timely and economical solutions.

  • Manage budgets in a fiscally responsible manner.

  • Establish program objectives or performance goals and assess progress toward their achievement.

  • Read and interpret complex federal and state laws, rules and regulations.

Critical Job Competencies

Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Team Player, Communication Skills, Interpersonal skills, Self-Management, Customer Focus, Supervisory Skills, Budgeting, Planning, and Technical Skills (Leadership, Supervision, Water Quality).

What You Get From Us:

  • A competitive pay plan and rewarding work.

  • Insurance benefits that start the first of the month following 30 days of employment.

(Premiums can start as low as $64/month for single and $210/month for family coverage).

  • Separate vacation and sick leave accruals that start on the first day and can roll over annually.

  • Nine paid holidays/year.

  • Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) retirement package with employer match.

  • Optional deferred compensation (457/401A) plan with employer match.

  • Professional training opportunities.

  • Family friendly and professional work environment.

  • Employee Discount Programs (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling)

  • The State's total compensation package features benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation. For a list of additional benefits, please visit theDAS website (https://das.iowa.gov/human-resources/benefits-glance) for more information.

  • Flexible work schedules (as approved by the supervisor).

  • Opportunities for hybrid telework (as approved by the supervisor).

  • Workout/Gym facilities available onsite at 6200 Park Ave.

Comments

The starting salary for new state (Executive Branch) employees is expected tobe at the base of the pay range. Additional salary increases may occur after the first six months, and then annually (if applicable). The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation. Visit theDAS website (https://das.iowa.gov/human-resources/benefits-glance) for more benefit information.

For more information on Iowa DNR's Water Supply Operations Section, please visitthis link (https://www.iowadnr.gov/environmental-protection/water-quality/drinking-water) .

Ensure you are kept up-to-date of this position by checking your email regularly for emails frominfo@govermentjobs.com (file://iowa.gov.state.ia.us/data/DNRUsers/mforbes0/My%20Documents/info@govermentjobs.com) . This is a system generated email from the DAS application system and it may be sent directly to your Junk/Spam folder.

DNR Application Tips (https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Employment)

For more information about DNR Employment Opportunities and position specific notices, please visit theDNR Employment (https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Employment) website.

The State of Iowa is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federalRight to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visitwww.e-verify.gov

Iowa DNR Mission

To conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:

1) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university and experience equal to four years of full-time work in program administration, development, management, or operations. 2) Eight years of full-time work experience in program administration, development, management, or operations. 3) All of the following (a and b):

a. Four years of full-time work experience work in program administration, development, management, or operations; and

b. A combination of a total of four years of education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience. Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education.

4) All of the following (a, b, and c):

a. Two years of full-time work experience work in program administration, development, management, or operations; and

b. A combination of a total of four years of education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work equals one year of full-time experience; and

c. A combination of a total of two years of graduate-level education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university course work in a public-service-related area (e.g., public or business administration, social work, law, education, engineering) equals one year of full-time experience. Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is

also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education.

5) Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes one year of full-time work as a Public Service Supervisor or comparable specific management-level position.

For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description. (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/class\and\pay/JobClassDescriptions/PublicServiceManager1-00784-60784-80784.pdf)

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS (https://ipers.org/members) .

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

01

Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely.Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question.Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.

  • Yes - I understand and agree.

  • No

    02

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY

Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?

  • No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

  • Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq

    03

Have you graduated from an accredited four-year college or university?IF YES- How many years do you have of full-time work experience in program administration, development, management, or operations?

  • Not applicable - I have not graduated from an accredited four-year college or university

  • No experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Less than two years of experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Two years to less than four years of experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Four or more years of experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

    04

How many years do you have of full-time work experience in program administration, development, management, or operations?

  • Not applicable - I do not have experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Less than two years of experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Two years to less than four years of experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Four years to less than six years of experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Six years to less than eight years of experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Eight or more years of experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

    05

Do you have a minimum of four years of full-time work experience in program administration, development, management, or operations?IF YES

How many total years do you have of combined post-high school education and ADDITIONAL (not used to count for the first portion of the question) full-time experience in program administration, development, management, or operations?

NOTE 1:30 thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience.

NOTE 2:Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education.

  • Not applicable - I do not have a minimum of four years of experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Four years to less than six years of combined post-high school education and full-time experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Six years to less than eight years of combined post-high school education and full-time experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Eight or more years of combined post-high school education and full-time experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

    06

Do you have two years of full-time work experience in program administration, development, management, or operations? IF YES - How many years do you have of a combination of GRADUATE level (post bachelor's degree) course work and ADDITIONAL (not used to count for the first portion question) full-time experience in program administration, development, management, or operations?

NOTE 1:24 semester hours of accredited graduate college or university course work in a public-service-related area (e.g., public or business administration, social work, law, education, engineering) equals one year of full-time experience

NOTE 2:Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education.

  • Not applicable - I do not have GRADUATE level (post bachelor's degree) course work or Iowa Certified Public Manager Program certification

  • Less than two years of combined GRADUATE level (post bachelor's degree) course work and full-time experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Two years to less than four years of combined GRADUATE level (post bachelor's degree) course work and full-time experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

  • Four or more years of combined GRADUATE level (post bachelor's degree) course work and full-time experience in program administration, development, management, or operations

    07

Are you a current State of Iowa employee - executive branch? IF YES - How many months of experience do you have in the classification of Public Service Supervisor or comparable specific management-level position for the State of Iowa?

  • Not applicable - I am not a State of Iowa employee

  • I do not have experience as a Public Service Supervisor or comparable specific management-level position for the state of Iowa

  • Less than 12 months of experience as a Public Service Supervisor or comparable specific management-level position for the state of Iowa

  • 12 or more months of experience as a Public Service Supervisor or comparable specific management-level position for the state of Iowa

    08

After reviewing the list of essential functions for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources position you are applying for, please answer the following question: Based on the list of essential functions listed within the job announcement, are you able to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without a reasonable accommodation?

  • Yes

  • No

    09

Reference Checks: If you are one of the top candidates for this position, the Hiring Team may wish to contact the references provided by you or any others we deem appropriate in order to verify your current or prior employment for the purpose of evaluation of your qualifications for the above position. Any information obtained through a reference check shall be kept confidential to the extent allowed under the Iowa Open Records Act (Iowa Code chapter 22). Please list below three professional business references, including at least one current or former supervisor. Please provide name, title, organization, relationship to you, phone, email, and full address of the reference. You may attach these to your application or type them in the box provided below.

Required Question

Employer

State of Iowa

Agency

542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Address

6200 Park Ave

STE 200

Des Moines, Iowa, 50321

Website

http://www.iowadnr.gov/

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