Commissioner - Philadelphia Water Department

Company Description

A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact.

As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.

What we offer

• Impact - The work you do here matters to millions. 
• Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it? 
• Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
• Benefits - We care about your well-being.

Agency Description

The Philadelphia Water Department is a municipal department of approximately 2500 employees working in all facets to provide water/wastewater treatment services to the City of Philadelphia and the surrounding counties.

The Department's primary mission is to plan for, operate, and maintain both the infrastructure and the organization necessary to purvey high quality drinking water, to provide an adequate and reliable water supply for all household, commercial, and community needs, and to sustain and enhance the region's watersheds and quality of life by managing wastewater and storm water effectively.

In fulfilling its mission, the Department seeks to be customer-focused, delivering services in a fair, equitable, and cost-effective manner, with a commitment to public involvement. Having already served the City and region for nearly two centuries, the Department's commitment for the future includes an active role in the economic development of Greater Philadelphia and a legacy of environmental stewardship.

Job Description

Position Summary

The Commissioner of the Water Department serves as the chief executive of the Philadelphia Water Department, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and policy direction. Reporting directly to the Deputy Managing Director of Transportation and Infrastructure, the Commissioner is responsible for leading and managing the Department through a team of Deputy Commissioners overseeing critical divisions across water treatment, wastewater management, stormwater systems, environmental services, engineering, administration, and customer service.

This role demands a visionary leader who can navigate complex regulatory environments, drive operational excellence, foster innovation, and advance the Department's commitment to environmental stewardship and public service.

Essential Functions

• Provide strategic leadership and management of all Philadelphia Water Department operations, programs, and initiatives.
• Direct the work of Deputy Commissioners to ensure high performance and accountability across all operational, technical, and administrative functions.
• Develop and execute long-term strategic plans to maintain and enhance the City's water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure and services.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations and standards governing water quality, environmental protection, and public health.
• Champion customer service excellence, equity, sustainability, and public engagement across all departmental activities.
• Serve as a key advisor to the Deputy Managing Director of Transportation and Infrastructure and other City leadership on water infrastructure, environmental policy, and operational matters.
• Oversee budget development and financial management to ensure efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable operations.
• Promote a culture of innovation, diversity, equity, inclusion, and continuous improvement within the Department.
• Represent PWD to external stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and regional partners.

Required Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge

• Comprehensive knowledge of principles and practices related to water supply, wastewater, and stormwater management operations, infrastructure planning, and environmental protection.
• Thorough understanding of local, state, and federal regulatory frameworks governing drinking water quality, wastewater treatment, stormwater management, and enviro