Position Overview
The Kings County Water District is seeking a dynamic and highly effective General Manager to lead the District’s operations. The General Manager, under the direction of the Board, ensures that Board policies and strategic priorities are effectively implemented while maintaining operational excellence and long-term sustainability of the District’s water resources and services. This is a highly visible role requiring a strong communicator and strategic leader who can represent the district with credibility and professionalism.
Key Areas of Responsibility
Strategic Leadership & Governance
- Provide strategic guidance and direction aligned with Board priorities
- Develop and execute long-term plans addressing water supply, regulatory changes, and District sustainability
- Advise the Board with clear, timely, and well-informed recommendations
Operations & Water Management
- Oversee water acquisition, conveyance, and distribution
- Coordinate with ditch companies and agricultural stakeholders
- Ensure efficient, compliant, and reliable district operations
Financial Management & Administration
- Develop and manage the District’s annual budget
- Oversee contracts, water agreements, and capital projects
- Ensure sound administrative practices, including compliance, recordkeeping, and operational systems
Stakeholder Engagement & Public Representation
- Serve as the primary representative to water users, agencies and the public
- Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships across diverse stakeholder groups
- Represent the District in public, regulatory, and legislative settings
Core Competencies and Leadership Traits
- Communication & Stakeholder Diplomacy – Exceptional ability to communicate clearly, build trust, and navigate sensitive or challenging conversations
- Leadership & Accountability – Service-oriented leader who fosters trust, transparency, and performance
- Strategic Thinking – Ability to anticipate challenges and guide long-term direction
- Conflict Resolution – Skilled at managing competing interests and maintaining productive relationships
- Negotiation & Influence – Effective in achieving balanced, sustainable outcomes
- Adaptability & Problem-Solving – Able to lead through change and improve organizational effectiveness
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, engineering, water resources management, or a related field preferred
- Significant and progressively responsible management experience in agricultural, water, or related field
- Demonstrated experience with water conveyance systems and stakeholder coordination preferred
- Proven leadership experience in a supervisory or executive capacity, preferably within a public agency or similar organization is highly desirable
Compensation & Requirements
- Annual Salary Range: $150,000 to $200,000
- Competitive benefits package
- Valid California Driver’s License
- Successful completion of background check and pre-employment requirements
The Kings County Water District is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal and California employment laws.
Send resume via email by April 30, 2026, to:
Kings County Water District
Email: hr@kingscwd.org
200 Campus Drive
Hanford, CA 93230
