Director of Utilities
Lead the Future of Water in Southwest Florida. Are you a forward-thinking utility leader ready to make a lasting impact? Lee County, one of Florida's fastest-growing regions, is searching for a visionary Director of Utilities to guide one of the state's most dynamic water and wastewater systems into the future. As the Director, you'll lead a team of over 300 talented professionals delivering high-quality water and wastewater services to more than 250,000 customers every day. With an annual operating budget of $98 million and $894 million in capital projects planned through 2030, you'll shape how Lee County grows, building sustainable infrastructure, championing innovation, and ensuring resilient, customer-focused service.
Lee County Utilities (LCU) is a technologically advanced and progressive organization serving a rapidly expanding region along Florida's Gulf Coast. Our system includes :
- 5 water treatment plants covering 200+ square miles and 1,400+ miles of water lines
- 5 wastewater treatment plants across 160+ square miles and 900+ miles of mains
- Delivery of 25+ million gallons of clean water and treatment of 11+ million gallons of wastewater daily
LCU's success is built on innovation, reliability, and a commitment to environmental stewardship, backed by the support and stability of the Lee County Board of County Commissioners, the region's third-largest employer.
Duties and Responsibilities
Your Leadership Mission Reporting to an Assistant County Manager, you'll :
Provide strategic vision and operational leadership for a full-service utilities departmentInspire and mentor a high-performing, service-driven teamDrive innovation and efficiency across all divisions; from field operations to long-term planningStrengthen collaboration with county leadership, commissioners, and community partnersLead major infrastructure and capital improvement projects that will define the region's growthEnsure resilience, compliance, and excellence in all aspects of utility service deliveryThis is your opportunity to lead from the front; guiding an essential public utility in a region known for its growth, natural beauty, and community pride.
Education, Experience, Licensing
Ideal Candidate Profile We're looking for a visionary, collaborative, and results-oriented leader who brings :
A bachelor's degree in Engineering, Public Administration, Environmental Science, Business, or a related field5+ years of progressively responsible experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership roleExpertise in budgeting, fiscal management, and regulatory complianceDeep understanding of the water and wastewater industry and local government operationsA people-first leadership style that builds trust, engagement, and excellence across teamsWhy You'll Love Working Here Lee County offers the best of professional challenge and personal reward :
A collaborative, forward-thinking government organization that values innovation and integrityComprehensive benefits, including low-cost medical coverage, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, and participation in the Florida Retirement System (FRS)11 paid holidays, generous leave accruals, and flexible supplemental coverage optionsThe opportunity to live and work in beautiful Southwest Florida, home to award-winning beaches, world-class recreation, a strong economy, and a vibrant, growing communityLearn more about the benefits package offered to our employees :
Health Benefits :Medical InsurancePlans include routine, preventative, mental health, hospitalization, and prescription drug benefitsVision, Fitness, Weight Management, Natural Products and Services, and Hearing discount programs availableDental InsuranceVision InsuranceFlexible Spending AccountsMedical Reimbursement AccountDependent Care Reimbursement AccountPharmacy, including Mail-Order PharmacyInformed Health Lines (Nurse Hotline)Basic Life Insurance (1x or 2x Annual Salary at no cost to employee)Optional Life InsuranceLong-Term Disability (60% of pre-disability salary at no cost to employee)Short-Term DisabilitySick Leave PoolFlu vaccinationsWellness ProgramsFinancial Benefits :Florida Retirement System (FRS)Two Retirement Plan Options : 1) FRS Pension Plan (Defined Benefit) 2) FRS Investment Plan (Defined Contribution)Deferred Compensation (457) PlansFinancial Savings / Management ProgramsEligible for membership with Suncoast Credit UnionEmployee Leave BenefitsHoliday Pay - 11 Paid Holidays AnnuallyPaid Sick LeavePaid Vacation LeaveBereavement & Civic Duty LeaveFamily and Medical LeaveMilitary Family & Medical LeaveEducational LeaveEmployee Assistance Program Services available to employees that offers guidance, support, resources, and information for personal and work-life issuesConfidential and provided at no charge to employees and their dependentsUnited Way 2-1-1 (Lee County Employee Resource Program)Lee County BOCC has partnered with United Way 211 to provide an Employee Resource Program which assists BoCC employees who may be experiencing distress due to economic hardship, health or other factorsLee County Government Address P.O. Box 398 ATT : Human Resources Fort Myers, Florida, 33902 Phone (239) 533-2245
