Project Manager - Water/Wastewater Planning

Project Manager (Water/Wastewater Planning)
If you naturally think beyond the project in front of you and consider how systems will perform years down the line, this role was designed with you in mind.
As a Project Manager (Water/Wastewater Planning) at Lehigh County Authority (LCA), you’ll play a central role in shaping how a growing region delivers safe, reliable water and wastewater services – today and into the future.
This is a strategic, high-impact role where planning meets execution. You’ll influence major infrastructure investment decisions while collaborating with municipalities, regulators, and internal teams to ensure the region’s systems can meet evolving demand.
If you’re energized by complex systems, meaningful public impact, and the opportunity to think beyond the immediate project, this is a role where your work truly matters – we’d love to hear from you!
What the Job Looks Like
This role blends long-term system planning with hands-on project development to support regional infrastructure growth and resiliency. Day to day you’ll:
Lead the development of long-range water and wastewater capacity planning strategies, ensuring systems meet future regional demand and regulatory requirements
Direct and execute infiltration and inflow (I&I) reduction initiatives to improve system performance and reduce excess treatment costs
Produce and manage technical planning studies, including hydraulic modeling, watershed planning, and water supply optimization
Serve as a technical expert on system planning, evaluating treatment, distribution, and collection asset capacity and identifying capital investment needs
Analyze system data such as sewer metering and billing trends to uncover anomalies and inform operational and financial decisions
Collaborate with municipal leaders, regulators, and large customers to address compliance requirements and advance regional service strategies
Coordinate closely with internal teams to ensure smooth transition of projects from planning through design and construction, enabling effective project delivery
What We’re Looking For
This role is ideal for a Project Manager who enjoys solving complex infrastructure challenges while balancing technical depth with collaboration and communication. You might have:
Around 5+ years of experience in water or wastewater engineering within a utility, municipality, or consulting environment
Hands-on experience with system planning, hydraulic modeling, or infrastructure design – and the ability to interpret complex operational data
A strong foundation in water and wastewater systems, including collection, treatment, transmission, or supply management
Working knowledge of environmental and utility regulations such as the Clean Water Act, Safe Drinking Water Act, or NPDES programs
Experience managing or collaborating with engineering consultants and cross-functional teams on technical studies or capital projects
The ability to clearly communicate technical and financial concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
A degree in engineering is preferred; a PE license is a plus, but not required
Just as important – you’re curious, proactive, and comfortable working independently while influencing decisions across a broad group of stakeholders.
About Us and What We Offer You
Lehigh County Authority is committed to delivering high-quality water and wastewater services to the communities it serves. The Capital Works team plays a critical role in maintaining and improving infrastructure systems that residents and businesses depend on every day. Here, you’ll find a balance of technical challenge, public service, and long-term impact – where your work contributes to the safety, sustainability, and growth of the region.
We value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package that ensures you and your family are well taken care of. Here’s what you can look forward to when you join our team:
Competitive Salary: $85,000 - $95,000/yr. depending on experience and role alignment
Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Enjoy peace of mind with coverage for you and your eligible dependents, all at affordable employee contribution rates
Generous Paid Time Off: We believe in a healthy work-life balance, offering you ample vacation days, excused absences, personal days, and holidays to recharge and spend quality time doing the things you enjoy
Comprehensive Insurance: L