A water superintendent is a government employee who oversees and manages the processing, delivery, and treatment of water. This position typically entails a substantial amount of clerical work, managerial work, and long-term and daily operations planning. However, because some water departments are much larger than others, the specific functions of a water superintendent may vary region. The superintendent’s top priority is to ensure the community’s safety planning for the delivery of clean water and proper wastewater disposal. However, much of this person’s day-to-day responsibilities will revolve around organization and employee management.
On a governmental level, the water superintendent is likely to be involved in the development of water policy. He or she could collaborate with legislators to develop new policies that make water delivery, filtration, and cleaning much more efficient, affordable, and safe. Water superintendents may be contacted legislators to address regional issues as they arise, and they will also be consulted in the event of an emergency, natural disaster, or other situation that threatens the safety of water supplies or delivery lines.
Concerns about the budget must also be addressed the water superintendent. A water department, like all other facilities and agencies, will have to stick to a budget. The superintendent may play a key role in developing a budget and ensuring that the department stays on track throughout the fiscal year. If the department is operating within budget constraints, the superintendent will be in charge of making necessary changes to reduce costs and increase efficiency. In addition, he or she must keep track of all pertinent paperwork and billing documents.
The water superintendent, like any other management position, will typically have a mix of experience and education that qualifies him or her to oversee such operations. For this position, a college education is usually required; relevant college degrees include business administration, finance, public administration, and even parks, recreation, and tourism. After earning such a degree, a person is likely to begin in a lower position for several years before being promoted. This is an excellent time to learn about the inner workings of the public water system and to improve one’s ability to manage others, effectively manage time, and perform other relevant tasks.