Small Utility Project Manager I (Job #373) ($76,103 - $83,976)

Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) hires a Small Utility Project Manager I to provide technical, managerial, and financial assistance to small, disadvantaged community water and wastewater systems. The role supports sustainable utility operations, guides community construction projects, helps clients access funding, and delivers training to strengthen local capacity.

Responsibilities:

• Assess the needs of our clients and recommend solutions to the needs identified
• Build technical, managerial, and/or financial capacity at small utilities
• Manage relationships with client communities and utilities
• Help clients access financial resources to address drinking water, wastewater, and solid waste needs
• Guide client communities through construction projects from planning to completion
• Recommend and implement solutions
• Promote and facilitate partnerships to maximize limited resources
• Develop, prepare, and deliver group and one-on-one trainings
• Provide excellent customer service
• Prepare activity and outcome reports as required
• Performs other related duties as assigned

Requirements:

• Combination of education and experience can meet minimum qualifications
• High school diploma or equivalent with qualifying experience
• Valid driver's license and proof of insurance that meets the minimum requirements ($100,000/$300,000) of RCAC corporate liability policy
• One to three years of water, wastewater, environmental project management experience or in related field
• Commitment to rural communities, drinking water access, or health equity issues
• Strong understanding of technical, managerial, and financial operations of small water and wastewater utilities
• Familiarity with public works construction project requirements and infrastructure development
• Knowledge of resources and funding mechanisms available to support community water and wastewater projects
• Awareness of rural and tribal community cultures, values, and social norms, with sensitivity to community dynamics
• Skilled in facilitation, mediation, and managing meetings to foster collaboration and resolve conflicts
• Proficient in using personal computers, cloud-based platforms, and Microsoft Office Suite
• Experienced with video conferencing tools for remote engagement and training delivery
• Strong organizational and coordination skills to manage multiple tasks and stakeholders effectively
• Competent in database management and maintaining accurate records
• Exceptional customer service skills with a focus on responsiveness and professionalism
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a dynamic environment
• Capable of designing and delivering participant-centered trainings and workshops
• Strong problem-solving and innovation skills to troubleshoot challenges and implement effective solutions
• Skilled in creating, composing, and editing professional written materials
• Able to make sound administrative and procedural decisions using critical thinking and judgment
• Proficient in gathering data, compiling information, and preparing comprehensive reports
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions accurately and efficiently
• Effective communicator with strong verbal and written skills, including active listening and professional interaction
• Ability to build and maintain respectful relationships across diverse cultural and organizational backgrounds
• Committed to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with discretion
• Skilled in analyzing complex situations and determining appropriate courses of action
• Reliable in meeting strict timelines and managing competing priorities
• Bachelor's degree in a related field
• Bachelor's or Master's degree
• Experience and familiarity with rural and Tribal community dynamics
• Project management certification
• Water or wastewater operator certification
• Bilingual in languages spoken in our client communities (including, but not limited to Spanish, Navajo, Yup'ik, Salish)