Superintendent II - Waterworks Operations

Requisition ID: 43868 

Organization

Located on the traditional, ancestral and unceded lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Peoples, Vancouver has a commitment to becoming a City of Reconciliation. Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most liveable and environmentally sustainable cities. Named among Canada's Top 100 Employers, BC's Top Employers, and Canada's Greenest Employers, the City of Vancouver seeks colleagues who can help shape and embody our core commitments to sustainability, reconciliation, equity and outstanding quality of life for all residents.

Consider joining our committed team of staff and being part of an innovative, inclusive and engaging workplace.  Working at the City of Vancouver and within the public service can be a rewarding career where you play a key role in ensuring impartial and equitable access to services, upholding ethical governance, and addressing the needs of citizens with integrity and dedication.

Main Purpose and Function

The Superintendent II provides leadership for a sizable workforce and models the vision and values of both the City of Vancouver and Engineering Services. 

The position focuses on the supervision of work groups who are instrumental in the construction, operation, maintenance and repair of the City of Vancouver’s water system infrastructure.  This position is expected to develop and implement innovative techniques in the field and office to ensure branch operations are safe, efficient and cost effective. This role is responsible for the development, monitoring, management and reporting out on program and project budgets as well as the development of comprehensive training programs.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Provides leadership and guidance to staff, including hiring, assigning responsibilities, evaluating and reporting on performance, coaching, mentoring, training and development, attendance management and labour relations matters involving discipline and grievances.
• Takes a leadership role in embodying the City’s drive for a culture of physical and psychological safety and ensures the application and adherence of staff to the Occupational Health and Safety program, including managing emergency responses and assisting with accident investigations and supporting affected staff.
• Makes independent decisions and uses sound judgement in challenging, high risk and fluid situations which could have significant public safety, financial or reputational risk to the City.
• Acts as a representative for the Department on-site, and leads interactions with residents, businesses and other groups, frequently in a conflict situation, to respond to escalated issues and/or technically complex problems  
• Informs and supports the capital plan and service planning processes for the section, and leads analysis associated with workforce, equipment, safety, culture, and strategic planning for the section
• Develops, presents, and implements business cases or initiatives to drive operational and service delivery improvements and carries those initiatives from concept to completion.
• Supports and participates in departmental initiatives and events that support employee engagement and Engineering wide initiatives (e.g. Mentoring Program, Public Works Week).
• Responds to and provides expert guidance on responses to complex or high-profile inquiries and requests from members of the public, Council, and other departments.
• Develops strong relationships with key stakeholder groups such as engineering design branches, operations branches, Office of the Chief Safety Officer, Risk Management, Driver Services, and Supply Chain Management.
• Prepares and oversees project and operating budget, forecasts, cost controls, scheduling and work planning.
• Plays a leadership role in departmental emergency response activities in support of Emergency Operations Centre activations.
• Acts as on-call Superintendent when required during non-scheduled work hours.
• Actively participates and works on development of Branch GRTW/ RTW programs.
• Leads and drive organizational change and business improvements i.e. process improvement or technological advancements.
• Monitors and develops metrics as required that can be used to understand, manage and control business operations and can be used to focus efforts on business improvements.
  Plans, reviews and adheres to Operating or Capital Budget parameters based on appointed role (i.e., Construction, Operating or Maintenance).
• Aligns procurement processes with Supply Chain and Finance policies, processes and work flows.
  Ensures employees within their business area are informed about the specific hazards associated with their work, receive adequate training and are aware of their rights to ensure their protection from potential risks.
• Other duties/responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Diploma in Engineering or Public Works with a minimum of eight years’ related experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Experience leading diverse and multi-disciplinary teams within a unionized environment, including experience in dealing with labour relations matters including hiring practices, performance management, effective supervision, discipline and grievances.
• A valid Class 5 B.C. driver’s license is required.  The license must not include any restrictions that would affect one’s ability to legally and safely carry out job responsibilities.
• Experience working in complex fast paced work environments requiring high level of proficiency and accountability both operationally and administratively

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Comprehensive knowledge of Occupational Health and Safety standards including WorkSafeBC regulations.
• Good knowledge of waterworks infrastructure construction practices and water system maintenance practices.
• Good knowledge of industry best practises and/or leading-edge thinking and assess how operations can or need to be adjusted.
• Leadership skills with the ability to motivate, engage and mentor staff.
• Demonstrated problem solving and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to develop and maintain positive, productive relationships at all levels in the organization as well as with external stakeholders.
• Ability to exercise independent judgement, determine priorities and lead a team to meet goals in a timely manner.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new systems and technology.
• Ability to innovate, lead and implement change in the workplace.
• Ability to exercise tact and discretion in dealing with Senior staff, Councillors, members of the public and manage confidential and sensitive matters.
• Proficient in the use of software applications and databases Parklane, Posse, SAP, Hansen

Business Unit/Department: Engineering Services (1300) 

Affiliation: Exempt 

Employment Type: Regular Full Time 

Position Start Date: August, 2025

Salary Information: Pay Grade RNG-111: $125,619 to $165,280 per annum

Application Close: July 30, 2025

At the City of Vancouver, we are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that represents the community we so proudly serve. Indigenous peoples, people of colour, 2SLGBTQ+ persons including all genders and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.  Accommodations will be provided upon request during the selection process. Learn more about our commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

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Once you start your application you can save your work and leave the applications page, however please remember to submit your profile to the specific job requisition before the posting closing date.

In addition to uploading your cover letter and resume, part of the application process may include answering application questions related to the preferred requirements of the role which may take approx. 5-10 minutes. Cover letters should express interest and highlight additional information relevant to the position and resumes should include a summary of skills and experience related to the position.