Client Service Leader - Water Services

Port Hope is a uniquely attractive place to work, highlighted by the future development of potentially the world's largest nuclear plant, which promises cutting-edge infrastructure and economic stability. This diversification into nuclear energy complements the area's strong economic base in agriculture and manufacturing, securing a stable job market. Employees will engage with advanced technology and industry experts, enhancing professional development. The community's warmth promotes work-life balance, supported by cultural festivals and heritage sites. Proximity to Toronto/GTA provides urban access, while the area's natural beauty invites outdoor recreation. High-quality education and healthcare, low crime rates, and a commitment to environmental sustainability make Port Hope an exceptional place to live and work, fostering both professional and personal growth.
The Director, Water and Wastewater Services (“Director”) is responsible for the effective planning, administration and management in the divisions of Water (Treatment and Distribution); Wastewater (Treatment and Collection); in accordance with best practices and all applicable Municipal, Provincial and Federal Acts, Regulations, Policies and Standards.
Employer paid Group Health, Dental and Life Insurance after three months of employment
OMERS Pension Plan from the date of hire
Professional Development and Skill Based Training Opportunities
Wellness, Social and Staff Ambassador Committees
Employee and Family Assistance Plan
University degree in Civil Engineering and a Licensed Professional Engineer (P. A minimum of ten (10) years’ municipal experience in water and wastewater with five (5) years management experience. Management work experience in a unionized environment required.
Post-Secondary education with additional specialized courses e.g. Certified Engineering plus Water specific training considered an asset.
Valid Water Treatment Class II Certificate, Class III Water Distribution and Supply System Certificate, Class III Wastewater Treatment Certificate, and Class I Wastewater Collections including ability to act as Overall Responsible Operator for all systems.
As a member of the Senior Management Team, works collaboratively across departments to achieve corporate objectives, advance organizational effectiveness, and implement corporate strategies, policies and projects.
Provide leadership, vision, strategic thinking, risk assessment / management, fiscal responsibility and management of staff in a manner which incorporates best practices, technological advances, Corporate strategic goals, priorities, mission, values, short and long range growth management and the interests of the public. The Director shall ensure that the actions of the department and staff are in compliance with Corporate Policy, Strategic Plan and all applicable Municipal, Federal and Provincial requirements.
Responsible for demonstrating positive leadership through the supervision of staff, including developing a competent management team, directing/guiding work assignments, revising position responsibilities, performance management, identifying and supporting professional development needs/training, administration of payroll, coaching, motivating and empowering staff to meet the expectations of the position.
Lead, through the Manager, Water, the development and management of strategies and policies for the drinking water operating authority and the administration of the drinking water quality management system to ensure the delivery of safe drinking water and the effective and fiscally responsible management of all new and replacement water assets (linear and facilities); provide short and long term planning / direction on operations, management and service offerings.
Lead, through the Manager, Wastewater, the development and management of strategies, policies and operational changes to the wastewater operating authority to ensure the safe collection and treatment of wastewater through the effective and fiscally responsible management of the effective and fiscally responsible management of all new and replacement wastewater assets (linear and facilities); provide short and long term planning / direction on operations, management and service offerings.
Develop and forecast departmental requirements to support new nuclear initiatives and organizational readiness for rapid growth
Participate in discussions and negotiations with the Union on issues pertaining to the Collective Agreement and department operations and ensure the implementation of practices and processes which are in keeping with the Collective Agreement. In consultation with Human resources respond to union correspondences and grievances. Recommend Collective Agreement wording, revisions and Corporate supported negotiated terms.
Develop, maintain and ensure the consistent application of User fees which meet current and future service level objectives.
Act as the official signatory for the Water and Wastewater Services department and for legislated submissions to Government Agencies and other authorities.
Knowledge of the Municipality’s “Health and Safety Policy” and ensure that Departmental operating procedures comply with these provisions and those of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its Regulations, including WHMIS. Take all reasonable and necessary precautions to ensure the safety of oneself, other employees, the public, and any person likely to be affected by the employee’s acts or omissions. Responsible for emergency management for Water and Wastewater through the preparation of emergency response plans. As a member of the Emergency Management Program Committee, the Director fulfils the responsibility assigned to them in accordance with the Municipal Emergency Plan.
Represent the department and provide advice and recommendations to Council, the public, special purpose bodies, committees, government agencies, stakeholders and interest groups by communicating information and corporate objectives; recommend courses of action and facilitate solutions affecting administration and/or service delivery; write and / or review Committee of the Whole and / or Council Reports for the Water and Wastewater Services department.
Responsible for overseeing the department’s Municipal Asset Management Planning, including data validation; levels of service; service risks; operations, maintenance and replacement cost; as well as reviewing and making recommendations regarding the Municipality’s Asset Management Plan. This position is a member of the Asset Management Steering Committee which provides direction for ongoing development of Municipal Asset Management Planning.
Maintain a liaison with the media, other municipal administrations, local boards and utilities, government ministries, community groups and organizations to ensure good public relations, exchange of knowledge, solutions and best practice improvements related to the work of the department and the Municipality.
Provide a positive, professional image to the public and promote the Corporate Strategic Plan of the Municipality and the Department. Demonstrate commitment to personal and professional development by remaining current with new legislation, regulations, technology and organizational theory and practices relating to the Municipality.
Ensure compliance with, recommend updates to legal agreements, contracts, and policies. Negotiate changes in consultation with the CAO as required.
Ensure an environment of customer service excellence when dealing with all internal and external stakeholders; ensure the provision of a positive and professional image of the Municipality to the public.
Adhere to high standards of ethical behaviour and demonstrate understanding that personal actions impact the public’s perception of the Municipality.
A skilled people manager with strong leadership skills, including coaching, team building and employee development.
Knowledge of Municipal, Provincial and Federal Acts, Regulations and Standards related to Water and Wastewater Services departmental activities.
Strong analytical skills that involve application of extensive water and wastewater subject knowledge to the operation, maintenance, and capital renewal of municipal water and wastewater systems including long-term financial, capital and operations planning.
Ability to facilitate discussion between working groups and the public.
Interpersonal skills and customer service focused with strengths in consensus building and a high degree of political acuity.
Strategic, long term and proactive planning skills; organizational and time management skills.
Advanced computer skills including expertise on Email, Word, Excel, Project Tracking software and Power Point software; GIS experience would be an asset.
Valid and satisfactory Criminal Record Check.
Office environment with significant travel within the Municipality.
Significant contact with outside government agencies, consultants, and public.
Please submit your cover letter and resume online at Careers - Municipality of Port Hope by May 22, 2026. Recruitment Process

The Municipality of Port Hope is a progressive employer who believes a diverse and inclusive workplace strengthens the team and fosters an environment where everyone feels as though they belong and their dignity, beliefs and identity are respected.
Accommodations can be requested throughout the recruitment process in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.
Applications will be reviewed, and interviews may be scheduled prior to the job posting closing date. All applicants will receive an automated email confirming the submission of their application, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be further contacted by Human Resources.
Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the Municipal Act, as amended.