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Dam Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Padre Dam Municipal Water District

$42.08 - $59.51/hr

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the ...

New

Padre Dam Municipal Water District

$42.08 - $59.51/hr

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the ...

Padre Dam Municipal Water District

$42.08 - $59.51/hr

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the ...

New

Padre Dam Municipal Water District

$42.08 - $59.51/hr

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the ...

Padre Dam Municipal Water District

$42.08 - $59.51/hr

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the ...

New

Padre Dam Municipal Water District

$42.08 - $59.51/hr

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the ...

New

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How much do dam operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for dam operator in the United States is $27.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $35.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical work hours and team structure for a Dam Operator?

Dam Operators often work in rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as continuous monitoring of dam operations is essential for safety and reliability. They usually operate as part of a small, close-knit team that includes maintenance technicians, engineers, and safety personnel. Collaboration is frequent, both in routine monitoring tasks and during emergency response situations. The work environment is a combination of indoor control rooms and on-site inspections, requiring adaptability to both office and field conditions.

What is a Dam Operator job?

A Dam Operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring the operation of dams, ensuring the safe and efficient management of water flow, power generation, and flood control. They inspect equipment, adjust water levels, and respond to emergencies such as leaks or structural issues. This role requires knowledge of hydraulic systems, mechanical maintenance, and safety protocols. Dam Operators often work for government agencies, power companies, or water management districts to maintain public safety and resource management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Dam Operator position, and why are they important?

Succeeding as a Dam Operator requires mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of hydrology or water management, typically with a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water control equipment, and safety certifications such as confined space entry or CPR are often necessary. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help Dam Operators address emergencies and coordinate with maintenance or engineering staff. These competencies are critical for ensuring safe, reliable water flow regulation and protecting both infrastructure and surrounding communities.

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Dam Operator jobs near you
Construction Equipment Operator

Construction Equipment Operator

Padre Dam Municipal Water District

La Mesa, CA

$42.08 - $59.51/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the opportunity to work with a variety of heavy equipment—excavators, backhoes, graders, skid steers, cranes, forklifts, and more—while playing a critical role in installing, repairing, and maintaining essential infrastructure.

As a Construction Equipment Operator, you'll not only operate motorized equipment, but also lead a crew, train team members, and ensure every job site meets the highest safety standards. 

In this role, you will play a critical part in the installation, maintenance, and repair of the District's water distribution and wastewater collection systems. Your skills and leadership will be essential in responding to emergency situations, coordinating field activities, and delivering high-quality infrastructure projects that support our community. 

Construction Equipment Operators may be required to work flexible hours and/or extended work shifts including weekends and holidays, work rotating one-week standby shifts, and respond to after-hour emergency calls.  

This position is eligible for appointment within the following Salary Grades: 

Salary Grade 20L: $38.30 - $54.17/hour

Salary Grade 23L: $42.08 - $59.51/hour

To view the complete job classification for this position, click here.

Experience & Licensing Requirements:

Training/Experience Required:

1. High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D.) and four years experience in basic construction, preferably underground construction and the operation of heavy equipment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

2. Incumbents must be insurable and pass a background check.

Licensing Requirements:

1. Valid California driver’s license; Class A commercial driver’s license required and must be maintained throughout employment.

2. Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 certificate from the Water Resources Control Board.

3. Grade 3 is preferable or CWEA (California Water Environment Association) Collection System Maintenance Grade 2 or higher is preferable.

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