Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Job Description SYSTEMS OPERATOR (WATER STATIONS & SYSTEMS) Santa Margarita Water District is hiring two Systems Operators. We're seeking mechanically skilled professionals to maintain water and recycled water infrastructure for over 200,000 customers in Southern Orange County. This role involves preventive and corrective maintenance on mechanical equipment and pumping facilities to ensure reliable water services.

If you like troubleshooting and working with complex systems as part of a team, this is a great chance to grow your career in utility operations. This crew manages the distribution system, movement of water through our automated system (SCADA), operation and maintenance of pressure valves, reservoir management operations, water quality, and daily system tasks. About the Role Under general supervision, the Systems Operator on the Water Stations & Systems Crew performs technical and skilled work involving the installation, maintenance, repair, modification, and servicing of sophisticated mechanical systems and equipment used throughout the District's water and recycled water infrastructure.

This journey-level position supports the operation of pump stations, reservoirs, pressure reducing stations, and related facilities through preventative, predictive, and corrective maintenance activities. Working closely with Crew Chiefs, Senior Systems Operators, and Operations Foremen, the Systems Operator troubleshoots mechanical equipment, participates in planned shutdowns and emergency repairs, and helps ensure the reliability, efficiency, and longevity of the District's critical infrastructure. Meet Santa Margarita Water District Santa Margarita Water District is a dynamic, forward-thinking agency dedicated to delivering high-quality potable water, recycled water, and wastewater services to more than 200,000 customers throughout Southern Orange County.

Our people drive our innovation and success. We foster a collaborative, human-first culture where employees work together to solve challenges, support one another, and make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve. Our values include: Exemplary Service Excellence Intelligent Innovation Ethical Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency Environmental & Resource Stewardship Employee Development & Leadership Training Building Relationships that Strengthen Communities Essential Functions What You Will Do Install, inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair pumps, valves, motors, compressors, hydraulic systems, chemical feed equipment, and other mechanical infrastructure.

Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on water stations, reservoirs, pumping facilities, and related District infrastructure. Diagnose mechanical equipment failures and rebuild pumps, valves, motors, and associated components. Monitor equipment performance through inspections, lubricant analysis, and condition monitoring techniques.

Install and maintain chlorine storage, chemical feed, and distribution system components. Read and interpret blueprints, drawings, piping diagrams, and technical manuals to plan and complete work assignments. Operate District vehicles, light- and medium-duty equipment, hand tools, power tools, and, when certified, heavy equipment.

Maintain accurate maintenance records, inspection reports, and work documentation. Assist with construction, repair, and maintenance of water distribution facilities as needed. Participate in standby assignments and respond to after-hours emergencies to maintain continuous system reliability.

What You Bring Strong mechanical aptitude and experience maintaining pumps, motors, valves, compressors, and industrial equipment. Knowledge of preventive and predictive maintenance practices and mechanical troubleshooting techniques. Ability to diagnose equipment failures and perform complex mechanical repairs.

Experience reading engineering drawings, piping layouts, and technical documentation. Commitment to safe work practices and compliance with applicable regulations. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.

Ability to work independently while supporting a collaborative operations and maintenance team. Requisite Abilities/Qualifications & Guidelines Education & Experience Graduation from high school or GED equivalent and one year of journey-level experience in the installation, maintenance, and repair of pumping equipment, including pumps, valves, and motors, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Experience in a public agency is preferred.

Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements A valid California Class C driver's license is required, along with a California State Water Resources Control Board Distribution Operator Grade II (D2) and Treatment Operator Grade I (T1) certification. Annual CPR, First Aid, Confined Space Entry, and SCBA certifications are also required. Other Necessary Requirements/Additional Information To view the full job description click here: Systems Operator (Stations) job description.