Waterworks Manager
The City of Dryden, located on Wabigoon Lake, in the heart of Northwestern Ontario, is enveloped by the beauty of tranquil lakes, stunning views, and the boreal forest. Dryden offers the perfect blend of opportunities to raise a family, launch a business or enjoy retirement. The city has grown the conveniences of an urban centre without losing its rural, neighbourly charm.
Dryden is a community in motion, known for its abundant outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking but also for its first-class fully equipped recreation complex. There is something for every sport and outdoor enthusiast in Dryden, waterfront golf course, beaches, canoeing, cross-country skiing, easily accessible hunting in the Boreal Forest and fishing in and on local pristine lakes.
WATERWORKS MANAGER
The City of Dryden is seeking a technically adept and community-minded Waterworks Manager to lead its water and wastewater services through a period of critical infrastructure renewal, regulatory compliance, and workforce development. Reporting to the Director of Public Works, the Waterworks Manager oversees all operations related to water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, and ensures the City’s compliance with Ontario’s Safe Drinking Water Act, Clean Water Act, and related environmental legislation.
This is a strategic leadership position responsible for balancing regulatory obligations, operational reliability, and long-term infrastructure planning. The successful candidate will play a vital role in the modernization of the City’s systems, the integration of technology to enhance service delivery, and the development of a resilient and skilled workforce.
Why Join the City of Dryden?
Joining the City of Dryden means becoming part of a forward-thinking municipal organization that blends the professionalism of a high-performing public sector environment with the lifestyle advantages of a close-knit, nature-rich community. As Northwestern Ontario’s second-largest city and a recognized regional hub, Dryden is actively investing in infrastructure renewal, workforce development, and sustainable municipal services—offering professionals the opportunity to drive meaningful impact while enjoying a balanced and fulfilling way of life.
Dryden’s waterworks operation is at a strategic inflection point. The City is moving forward on ambitious priorities related to climate resilience, asset management, and technological modernization—supported by a collaborative Public Works team and a Council that values innovation and environmental stewardship. As Waterworks Manager, you will play a key leadership role in shaping future investments, optimizing operations, and mentoring the next generation of water service professionals. You will be part of a leadership culture that emphasizes integrity, service, and long-term thinking.
Professionally, this is a high-impact, high-visibility role with direct interface across Council, provincial regulators, engineering partners, and the community. Personally, it is an opportunity to live where others vacation—surrounded by forests, lakes, and trails, with immediate access to fishing, paddling, hiking, and year-round outdoor recreation. Dryden offers the rare combination of meaningful public service, and a lifestyle grounded in nature, wellness, and connection.
Our ideal candidate brings:
- Post-secondary diploma in Civil or Environmental Engineering, or a related field
- Valid Ontario Ministry of Environment (MOE) certifications:
- Class II Water Treatment
- Class I Water Distribution
- Class I Wastewater Collection
- Class III Wastewater Treatment
- Certified and eligible to act as Overall Responsible Operator (ORO) for water and wastewater systems
- Minimum five (5) years of progressive supervisory or management experience in municipal water and/or wastewater treatment and distribution/collection systems
- Demonstrated experience in regulatory compliance, emergency response, and capital planning
- Proven ability to manage technical teams, performance monitoring, and operational reporting
- Strong knowledge of Ontario’s Safe Drinking Water Act, DWQMS, and environmental standards
- Proficiency with SCADA systems, GIS, and Maintenance Management Systems (MMS)
- Valid Class G Driver’s License and ability to respond to after-hours emergencies as required
With a 2025 salary range of $109,990.40 to $120,993.60 and full employer-paid benefits (including OMERS pension participation and potential relocation assistance), the role offers an exceptional opportunity for a certified water and wastewater leader seeking to make a meaningful impact in a vibrant, northern Ontario community. The successful candidate will help shape the future of municipal services in a city known for its natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle, and strong sense of community.
