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Small Water System Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Water Operator I

Klamath, CA · On-site

$23.48 - $35.50/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Under the direct supervision of the Chief Water Operator, works to assist with the control, operation, and maintenance of small rural water systems on the Yurok Reservation. Operate ...

Water Operator I

Klamath, CA · On-site

$23.48 - $35.50/hr

... Operator, works to assist with the control, operation, and maintenance ... of small rural water systems on the Yurok Reservation. Operate plant equipment and machinery to ...

Showing results 21-40

Small Water System Operator information

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a small water system operator?

To thrive as a Small Water System Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, regulatory compliance, and basic mechanical skills, often supported by a high school diploma and state operator certification. Operators commonly use water testing equipment, SCADA systems, and basic lab analysis tools to monitor and manage water quality. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the safe delivery of potable water, compliance with health standards, and prompt resolution of operational issues.

What is the difference between Small Water System Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectSmall Water System OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires state-specific water operator licensesRequires state or federal water treatment operator licenses
Work EnvironmentManages small community or municipal water systems, often on-siteOperates large-scale water treatment facilities, often in industrial settings
Employer & IndustryLocal government, small municipalities, private water providersMunicipalities, industrial plants, large water treatment facilities

The Small Water System Operator and Water Treatment Plant Operator roles share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on water quality and safety. However, the Small Water System Operator typically manages smaller systems with fewer resources, while the Water Treatment Plant Operator handles larger, more complex facilities. Both roles are essential for maintaining safe drinking water and are often searched for by individuals seeking careers in water management.

What is a small water system operator?

Small water system operators are professionals responsible for managing, maintaining, and monitoring water supply systems that serve small communities or facilities, typically with fewer than 3,300 people. Their duties include ensuring water quality, conducting routine inspections, testing for contaminants, and maintaining equipment. They must comply with local, state, and federal regulations to ensure the water is safe for public consumption. Operators may also be involved in emergency repairs and customer communication regarding water safety. Certification and ongoing training are often required for this role.

What are common challenges faced by small water system operators, and how can they be addressed?

Small Water System Operators often face challenges such as limited staffing, tight budgets, and aging infrastructure. These factors can make it difficult to keep up with regular maintenance, regulatory compliance, and unexpected repairs. Operators can address these challenges by prioritizing preventive maintenance, staying up-to-date with training and certification requirements, and establishing strong communication with local authorities and regulatory agencies. Networking with other operators and leveraging available resources can also help in troubleshooting and problem-solving.

What are popular job titles related to Small Water System Operator jobs in California?

For Small Water System Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Small Water System Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Small Water System Operator jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Small Water System Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

System Operator II for the Marina Coast Water District

Regional Government Services Authority

Carmel Valley, CA • On-site

$96K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Salary : $96,861.25 - $123,622.20 Annually
Location : Marina, CA
Job Type: Client Full Time
Job Number: 26-MCWD-SOII
Department: Marina Coast Water District
Opening Date: 07/29/2026
Closing Date: 8/18/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Position Description
Are you looking to build a rewarding career while making a meaningful impact in your community? Are you a motivated self-starter who enjoys taking initiative and working collaboratively with others? Do you thrive both independently and as part of a team? If so, the Marina Coast Water District invites you to apply for the position of Systems Operator II.
Don't miss this opportunity-apply today and become a key part of our team!
Regional Government Services and its staff are conducting this recruitment on behalf of the Marina Coast Water District
ABOUT THE POSITION:
The Systems Operator performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled work in support of all district water treatment, distribution, and wastewater collection system installation, inspection, preventive and corrective maintenance and repair activities; assists in performing underground televised wastewater collection main inspection and hydrocleaning of wastewater collection lines; assists in inspecting and performing preventive maintenance, servicing and mechanical repair of potable water booster pump stations, wastewater lift stations and mobile equipment; performs related work as required.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL:
  • Be motivated by the opportunity for professional growth in the water and wastewater fields.
  • Be flexible, reliable, and detail oriented with high standards for work product and safety.

  • Be an individual who is accountable, ethical, self-motivated, friendly, adaptable, and comfortable working both independently and in a team-oriented environment.
  • Be detail-oriented with exceptional organizational skills to perform the job functions in a constantly changing environment.
  • Interact tactfully, effectively, courteously, and concisely with members of the general public and employees.
  • Show commitment, dedication, accountability, and follow through on all projects, goals, and aspects of one's work.

  • Be punctual, trustworthy, and hardworking.

  • Be comfortable explaining laws, regulations, policies and procedures.

ABOUT THE CLIENTBackground - In 1958, a local group of dedicated citizens, known as the Marina Community Service Corporation, proposed the formation of a municipal-owned water system with boundaries to coincide with the existing Marina Fire District, which was approximately 1,600 acres. Two years later, the Marina County Water District was formed by registered voters of the then unincorporated city of Marina. In 1966, voters authorized the sale of water bonds totaling $950,000 to acquire a privately owned water company serving the area.
Today - Today we serve more than 40,000 customers and approximately 11,000 accounts between Central Marina and the Fort Ord Community on the former military base, including California State University (CSU) Monterey Bay. Our vision is to become the leading public supplier of integrated water and wastewater services in the Monterey Bay Region.
It's an exciting time to work for the District and to play an integral role in this high-profile opportunity, while also living on the Central Coast of California along the scenic Monterey Bay area-It just doesn't get any better...
COMPETENCIES
  • Accountability - Accepts responsibility for themselves
  • Attention to Detail- Accomplishes tasks with thoroughness and accuracy
  • Communication - Effectively conveys and exchanges thoughts, opinions, and information verbally and in writing
  • Customer Service- Maintains on-going client relationships
  • Initiative- Assesses and initiate things independently
  • Interpersonal Relations and Skills- Builds relationships based on mutual trust and respect
  • Problem Solving- Sees and is able to define problems and implement solutions
  • Reliability and Commitment- Shows commitment, dedication, and accountability in one's work, and follows through on all projects, goals, and aspects of one's work
  • Safety- Works to comply with safety regulations and helps to promote safety consciousness and well-being
  • Teamwork- Works collaboratively with others to achieve a goal

Examples of Duties
To view the full description, click HERE
Typical Qualifications
Education/Experience
Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
System Operator II:
Equivalent to graduation from high school with specialized coursework or training in a technical field that includes the fundamentals of water supply principles and two years of experience in water distribution and wastewater collection systems at a level equivalent to that of a MCWD System Operator II. Associate of Arts or Science degree from an accredited college with specialized coursework in a technical field that may include physical, chemical, or biological science.
Licenses and Certifications:
System Operator II: Must possess and maintain a valid California class B or A driver's license with a good driving record. The following certifications are required at time of appointment:
  • State Water Resource Control Board Water Distribution Operator Grade II
  • State Water Resource Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade II
  • California Water Environment Association Collection System Maintenance Grade II

Physical Demands:
Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; mobility to inspect various water distribution and wastewater collection system and pumping/lift station sites; physical stamina to perform system and maintenance repair work, work on uneven terrain and lift and carry equipment and materials weighing up to 50 pounds; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen and hearing and speech to communicate in person, over the telephone and a two-way radio.
Other Requirements:
This position must be willing and normally available for responding to off-hours emergency situations at all times as described in the job description. The offer is contingent on you being able to meet the 30 minutes when placed on standby for off-hour calls within six months of hire date.
Supplemental Information
BENEFITS AND SALARY INFORMATION
Salary for System Operator II: $96,861.25 - $123,622.20 (EA Range 20)
To view the Marina Coast Water District benefits, click HERE
APPLICATION PROCESS:Applications must be submitted online through this applicant tracking system. Materials must be complete and clearly indicate the candidate meets the minimum qualifications. Incomplete, late, emailed, and faxed applications are not accepted. Resumes are not considered in lieu of the required employment application. False statements may be cause for immediate disqualification, removal from eligibility list, or discharge from employment.
All statements made on the application, resume, and supplemental materials are subject to verification. False statements may be cause for immediate disqualification, removal from eligibility list, or discharge from employment.
Certificates, resumes, and/or cover letters must be uploaded with your application through this applicant tracking system.
APPLICATION DEADLINE IS AUGUST 18, 2026
SELECTION PROCESS: Application- (Pass/Fail) Applications are screened based on the criteria indicated in this announcement. Incomplete, late, emailed, and faxed applications will not be accepted. Resumes are not considered in lieu of the required employment application. Certificates, resumes, and/or cover letters must be uploaded with your application through this applicant tracking system.
Minimum Qualifications (MQ) Appraisal- (Pass/Fail) All completed applications and supplemental questionnaires will be reviewed for each applicant's ability to meet the minimum work experience, training, and education qualifications.
Remote Screening- (Pass/Fail) A remote screening process (date to be determined) will be used to verify qualifications and evaluate candidate's knowledge and skills for the position.
Successful candidates will be submitted to the Marina Coast Water District for further consideration.
All communication and notices will be sent via email. Additional inquiries about the position may be directed to .
Neither Regional Government Services nor the Marina Coast Water District are responsible for failure of internet forms or email in submitting your application. Candidates who may require special assistance in any phase of the application or selection process should advise RGS by emailing .
The Marina Coast Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
01
Please indicate your highest level of education:
  • High School Diploma, G.E.D., or High School Equivalency Certificate
  • Some college
  • Associate degree
  • Bachelor's degree
  • None of the above

02
Please indicate the field of study for your degree or N/A if not applicable
03
How many years of experience do you have performing responsible work involving the installation, maintenance, and repair of water pumps and related systems?
  • I have no experience in this area
  • Less than 1 year of experience
  • At least 1 year of experience but less than 2 years
  • At least 2 years of experience but less than 3 years
  • At least 3 years of experience but less than 4 years
  • At least 4 years of experience but less than 5 years
  • 5 or more years of experience

04
Do you possess a State Water Resource Control Board Water Distribution Operator Grade II Certificate?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you possess a State Water Resource Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade II Certificate?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Do you possess a California Water Environment Association Collection System Maintenance Grade II Certificate?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Do you possess a valid California Drivers license.
  • Yes
  • No

08
Do you have a satisfactory driving record?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question