City of Fort Atkinson is a full-service community ideally situated between the Madison and Milwaukee metropolitan regions in southern Wisconsin. Combining a small-town ambiance with big-city amenities, Fort Atkinson offers a bustling downtown, historic districts, and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities along the Rock and Bark Rivers. The city is a great place to live, work, and play, priding itself on high-quality municipal services and a school district that serves as a cornerstone for local families.
The Municipal Organization
The City operates under a Council-Manager form of government. The Water Utility is a key division within the Department of Public Works (DPW), which also oversees Streets, Stormwater, Wastewater, and Engineering. The Water Utility Superintendent reports directly to the Director of Public Works and serves as a vital member of the City’s Management Team.
Position Overview
The Water Utility Superintendent is the lead professional responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation, maintenance, and oversight of Fort Atkinson’s water system. This role encompasses long-term strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and daily personnel management to ensure the delivery of potable water for public consumption and fire protection.
Key Responsibilities
Drawing on technical expertise, the Superintendent ensures the utility meets all state and federal standards. Key duties include:
• System Operations: Overseeing the daily performance of the water treatment and distribution infrastructure, including wells, pumps, and towers.
• Maintenance Management: Developing and directing a comprehensive maintenance plan for all utility assets, including exercising valves and hydrant flushing.
• Regulatory Compliance: Serving as the Operator-in-Charge; ensuring compliance with Wisconsin DNR regulations, managing permits, and submitting all required reports.
• Water Quality: Collecting samples and conducting or coordinating laboratory testing to maintain rigorous water quality standards.
• Strategic & Financial Planning: Assisting in the development of the annual operating budget, overseeing expenditures, and planning for long-term capital improvements such as water main replacements and lead service identification.
• Personnel Leadership: Coordinating staff schedules, providing training, and managing employee performance and safety programming.
• Public Relations: Implementing excellent customer service by responding to public inquiries and managing the lead service replacement program.
The Ideal Candidate
The City seeks a knowledgeable, hands-on leader who can balance technical excellence with proactive management. The successful candidate will possess:
• Technical Expertise: Advanced proficiency in SCADA systems and GIS technology, alongside a solid understanding of Wisconsin DNR regulations.
• Leadership Abilities: Strong communication skills, including the ability to listen and understand various stakeholders.
• Collaborative Spirit: A team-oriented approach, utilizing active listening and emotional intelligence to work across City departments.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Sound judgment and the ability to diagnose operational issues and implement creative, “out of the box” solutions.
• Integrity: High personal and professional integrity with a positive, productive attitude toward citizens.
Minimum Qualifications
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent is required; an Associate degree in a related field is preferred.
• Experience: Five years of distribution system and/or supervisory experience is preferred.
• Certifications: Must possess a valid Wisconsin DNR Water Distribution certification.
• Driver’s License: Valid motor vehicle operator’s license is required; ability to obtain a Wisconsin Class B CDL is preferred.
Compensation and Benefits
The Water Utility Superintendent is a full-time, exempt position with a hiring range of $77,520 – $96,900 annually, depending on qualifications and experience and a full Salary Range for the position of $77,520 – $116,280.
The City of Fort Atkinson offers an excellent benefits package, including enrollment in the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) Pension, health insurance, and a robust time-off program.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should email a cover letter, resume, and professional references to the City of Fort Atkinson, Director of Public Works by 12 pm on Tuesday, July 7, 2026.
Position Profile
Full Position Description
Zach Navin
Director of Public Works
City of Fort Atkinson, WI znavin@fortatkinsonwi.gov
920-397-9901
The City of Fort Atkinson is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.