Entry Level Instrumentation Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $85,737.60 - $131,726.40 Annually
Location : Temecula, CA 92590
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 201
Department: Operations
Division: Electrical Services
Opening Date: 07/09/2026
Closing Date: 7/27/2026 12:00 PM Pacific
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: RCWDEA
Job Announcement
RANCHO WATER IS SEEKING AN ELECTRICAL CONTROLS/INSTRUMENTATION TECHNICIAN
Rancho California Water District is currently seeking a well-qualified candidate to fill an Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician. This position will be filled at the I or II level.
The Ideal Candidate...
The ideal Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician is a motivated, safety-conscious professional who is eager to learn and grow in the field of industrial electrical controls and instrumentation. They bring a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and a willingness to work collaboratively as part of a highly skilled and high-performing team. Whether entering the field as a Technician I or joining as an experienced Technician II, they demonstrate initiative, accountability, and a desire to continuously expand their knowledge of electrical systems, instrumentation, PLCs, networking, SCADA, and emerging technologies. Above all, they value teamwork, communicate effectively, and contribute to a culture of professionalism, reliability, and continuous improvement while supporting the District's mission.
How to Apply...
Interested applicants must submit a completed application at We will be accepting applications until Monday, July 27, 2026 @ 12:00PM. The recruitment process will include, but not limited to, an application review, written exam, and panel interview.
Compensation
Electrical Controls and Instrumentation I: $41.22 - 49.47
Electrical Controls and Instrumentation II: $47.81 - 57.37
Schedule of Events (dates subject to change)

• Recruitment Closes - Monday, July 27, 2026
• Written Exam Dates - August 7, 2026 and August 10, 2026
• Panel Interview - Week of August 17, 2026

JOB DESCRIPTION
Under immediate progressing to general supervision, to perform a variety of electrical, electronic maintenance, control system programming and updates and repair duties related to potable and reclaimed water distribution systems, wastewater treatment and sewage collection systems.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician I
This is the entry-level position in the Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician class series. Positions assigned to this level perform limited or routine electronic or electrical maintenance and repair service duties under close supervision. Because employees in classifications at this level may be in a training capacity, such positions do not require significant previous work experience.
Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician II
This is the journeyman level position in the Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician class series. Positions assigned to this level perform a full range of electronic and electrical service duties in the maintenance and repair of electrical equipment and systems, instrumentation systems, electrical control and communication systems under general supervision. Employees in this class need to be familiar with networking, switches and routers, computer system, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC's) and Operational Technology (OT) cybersecurity. Because employees in classifications at this level are expected to be fully trained and competent, such positions typically require significant previous work experience in the electrical field.
Senior Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician
This is an advanced journeyman level position in the Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician class series. Positions assigned to this level independently perform highly technical and specialized maintenance and repair duties at a level beyond that found at a journeyman level. Senior duties include assigning specific duties to apprentice and journeyman technicians, ensuring completion and compliance with applicable standards, policies, and procedures as well as providing technical assistance and training. Positions at this level also perform a full range of electronic and electrical service duties in the maintenance, repair, and inspection of electrical equipment and systems, instrumentation, electrical control and communication systems. Employees in this class need to have a working knowledge of networking, switches and routers, computer system, PLC's and OT cybersecurity. Because employees in classifications at this level are expected to be fully trained and competent, such positions typically require significant previous work experience in the electrical field.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Perform scheduled electrical maintenance as required by District maintenance program.
• Calibrate, modify, troubleshoot and repair all electrical and electronic equipment reported to be inoperative or malfunctioning.
• Troubleshoot large 4160V, 480V, and 240V electrical motors.
• Perform complex maintenance and repair duties to the District's SCADA system, instrumentation, radios and wireless communications, electrical equipment, controls and PLC's.
• Write and review PLC control logic to ensure desired system operation.
• Design and install electrical control and instrumentation systems for new sites and for the upgrade of existing sites.
• Ensure OT cyber-security compliance with NIST standards and any RCWD policies on cyber-security.
• Review drawings and material requests to determine compliance with the District's specifications based on national electrical codes and applicable industry standards.
• Provide technical guidance and/or implementation on OT cybersecurity.
• Update operating systems and PLC firmware for OT cybersecurity compliance.
• Provide assistance to higher level staff; investigate and prepare recommendations related to operational issues.
• Provide technical assistance and training as required; recommend work methods and procedures.
• When requested, provide input into formal performance appraisals.
• Coordinate / work with outside agencies and companies.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS
Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician I
Knowledge of:

• Basic electrical and/or electronic theory.
• Applicable laws, codes and regulations including the National Electric Code.

Ability to:

• Perform basic troubleshooting, diagnosis and repair of electrical and/or electronic systems and equipment.
• Read and interpret electrical and/or electronic schematics.
• Operate a variety of electrical tools and electronic and equipment.
• To install, modify, diagnose and repair instrument and control systems used in the treatment, storage, and distribution of potable water and reclaimed wastewater.

In addition to the qualifications for Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician I:
Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician II
Knowledge of:

• Electrical and electronic theory and practices as applied to instrument and control equipment.
• Operational characteristics of a wide variety of electrical and electronic equipment and materials.
• Applicable mechanical and pneumatic systems related to systems and control equipment.
• Proficient in computer systems and operating systems.

Ability to:

• Install, diagnose and repair instrument and electrical control systems used in the treatment, storage and distribution of potable water and reclaimed wastewater.
• Calculate motor feeder conductors, conduit sizes, main disconnects and over-current devices.
• Read, comprehend, and interpret complex electrical and electronic system schematics.
• Perform PLC maintenance.

In addition to the qualifications for Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician II:
Senior Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician
Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of electrical and electronic theory.
• AC, DC, and three phase electrical theory.
• Electronic, pneumatic, and mechanical disciplines related to systems and control equipment design.
• Electrical controls and instrumentation design.
• Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC's).
• Update passwords and firmware on PLC's and other control system devices.
• OT cybersecurity implementation.
• Computer control software development and programming.
• Operation and application of variable frequency drives.
• Solid-state starters.
• Relay logic design and applications.
• Radio and telecommunications.
• High Voltage Electrical (up to 4160 vac).

Ability to:

• Participate in a full range of electrical services.
• Diagnose facility-related problems and provide effective solutions.
• Operate a variety of electrical tools and electronic equipment.
• Use PLC software to develop, write, debug and document programs.
• Program PLC's both on-line and off-line.
• Address OT cybersecurity issues.
• Develop SCADA screens and event control logic in control software.
• Understand and maintain computer networks as related to SCADA systems.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS
The essential functions of this position may require the employee to perform the following physical activities:

• Operates a District vehicle to travel between job sites and remote facilities.
• Must be able to carry, push, pull, reach and lift equipment and parts up to 50lbs. and heavier weights with the use of proper assistance.
• Stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl and climb during regular duties.
• Communicates verbally with District management, co-workers, and the public in face-to-face, one-on-one, and group meetings.
• Use office equipment such as computers, copier, and fax machines.
• Regularly uses a computer, phone or radio for communication.
• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Vision within normal ranges including color vision with or without correction.
• Regular attendance.

The essential functions of this position may expose the employee to the following working conditions:

• 50%-100% of work time spent outside a building exposed to the sun.
• Inclement weather.
• Hot and cold temperatures.
• Hazardous materials.
• Electrical hazards.
• Heights.
• Confined spaces.
• Potentially dangerous tools and equipment.
• Traffic hazards.
• Trenching and excavations.
• Wildlife.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• The willingness to work nights, weekends, and overtime, as necessary.
• On-call on a rotational basis.

SELECTION GUIDELINES
The appropriate knowledge, skills, and abilities can be achieved through a variety of combinations of experience and training. A typical example is:
Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician I
Experience:
One (1) year of general electrical and instrumentation maintenance and repair experience, preferably in a utility, industrial, or manufacturing operation.
Education/Training:
Equivalent to completion of the 12th grade supplemented by specialized training in electrical, electronic and computer theory.
National Electric Code Training, Electrical Apprenticeship Program, and/or Certificate in Electronics are desirable.
Licenses/Certificates:
Valid C California driver's license, required.
Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician II
Experience:Two (2) years of experience in electronic and electrical maintenance and repair of equipment, preferably in utility, industrial, or manufacturing operation.
Education/Training:AS/AA Degree, or equivalent, in Electronics, Industrial Electricity, or computer theory, preferred.
National Electric Code training.
Computer networking training.
OT cybersecurity training.
Licenses/Certificates:D1 Water Distribution Certificate - SWRCB, required.
Valid C California driver's license, required.
Senior Electrical Controls/Instrumentation Technician
Experience:
Four (4) years of increasingly responsible journeyman level work as an industrial electrician, and an electronic technician.
Two (2) years experience in low and medium voltage (up to 4160 vac).
One (1) year of computer networking.
One (1) year of OT cyber-security.
Power generation experience desirable.Education/Training:
AA/AS Degree, or equivalent, in Electronics, Industrial Electricity, or computer theory.
Verifiable training in low and medium voltage (up to 4160 vac).
National Electric Code Training.Licenses/Certificates:
D2 Water Distribution Certificate - SWRCB, required.
T1 Water Treatment Certificate - SWRCB, required.
Valid C California driver's license, required.
CSSA (Certified SCADA Security Architect), within 12 months of position.
The District provides eligible employees the opportunity to participate in various employee benefits. A few of those benefits are listed below:
Medical Insurance
Eligible employees and dependents have the opportunity to enroll in medical insurance in accordance with District policies and applicable plan documents. Enrollment is available the first (1st) day of the month following the date of hire. Medical premium costs are shared between the District and the employee.
Medical Insurance Waiver
Eligible employees may waive their medical insurance with proof of other health insurance. The monthly cash payment in lieu of medical insurance benefits will be equal to the lowest medical insurance premium for the employee only rate.
Dental and Vision Insurance
Eligible employees and dependents hav