Water Operations Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

This recruitment will remain open until the position is filled. Please consider applying as soon as possible to be included in the first review of applications, which will occur on August 27, 2026.

Annual Salary Range: Bachelor's Degree OR D4 and T4, OR Grade III WW; OR Professional Engineering License in the State of California = $201,094.40 - $263,827.20

Under the general direction of the General Manager, performs management level duties to plan, organize and direct sections responsible for potable treatment and distribution, wastewater treatment and recycled water production and overall maintenance of District mechanical, electrical and SCADA and controls systems; oversees departmental and capital improvement projects; develops and monitors budgets; plans and provides technical support; participates actively in the management team; and performs related duties as assigned. Oversees contract operations of Water Reclamation Plants on Camp Pendleton.

This position has managerial responsibility for the planning and administration of the sections responsible for potable water system operations, including treatment and distribution, wastewater treatment and recycled water production and distribution. This position oversees District-wide maintenance of all mechanical, electrical and SCADA and controls systems. The incumbent exercises supervision over supervisory and technical positions including the Chief Plant Operator, Water Systems Supervisor, and SCADA/Electrical & Maintenance Supervisor. This includes overseeing the operation of the UV Treatment Plant, the Groundwater Treatment Plant, the Water Reclamation Plants in Fallbrook and on Camp Pendleton, and the potable distribution system.

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Develops strategies and approaches to optimize water treatment and distribution, wastewater treatment and recycled water production and delivery.
• Supervises, trains and evaluates the performance of operations staff;
• Recommends selection, promotion and discipline of personnel;
• Develops and directs the implementation of goals, objectives, and procedures for the department;
• Plans and prepares work schedules;
• Develops and administers the annual budget for the department;
• Stays current with Federal, State, County and District regulatory issues and permits inherent with potable water treatment, distribution systems and wastewater treatment and recycled water;
• Completes regulatory reports;
• Represents the District in a professional manner through involvement with industry organizations and committees;
• Inspects, monitors, makes adjustments, troubleshoots and controls the more complex water production and treatment issues;
• Drives a District vehicle in the course of daily duties;
• Provides assistance and guidance to staff regarding the operation of the potable treatment and distribution system, and wastewater treatment;
• Communicates with agents of the San Diego County Water Authority and other member agencies;
• Oversees District SCADA system and develops plans for improved automation and reporting;
• Oversees District valve exercise program;
• Ensures the completion of the calibration and maintenance of water and wastewater analytical equipment;
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Federal, State, County and District regulatory issues and permits inherent with potable water treatment and distribution systems, wastewater treatment and recycled water;
• Equipment, materials and terminology used in the operation of pumps, motors, generators, valves and pressure devices;
• Principles and practices relating to water production and distribution, and wastewater treatment;
• Principles, practices, and techniques relating to the operation, maintenance and development of SCADA based control systems;
• Principles and practices of supervision and management of staff;
• Computer software programs (email, MS Word and Excel); and
• Appropriate safety precautions and procedures.

• Schedule and assign work relating to water treatment and distribution operations, wastewater treatment, recycled water production and distribution, valve maintenance, instrumentation and controls and electrical maintenance;
• Maintain accurate records and reports;
• Troubleshoot complex potable water treatment and distribution systems and wastewater treatment;
• Plan, budget and coordinate a variety of SCADA related activities while working closely with staff and outside vendors;
• Represent the District in a professional manner through involvement with industry organizations and committees;
• Operate a personal computer and common business software;
• Prepare written reports and verbal reports;
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work; and
• Communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.

• Possession of a California driver's license; AND
• Possession of certification as a Water Distribution Operator Grade III (D3), or higher; OR
• Possession of certification as a Water Treatment Operator, Grade IV (T4) or higher OR Wastewater Operator Grade III or higher; OR
• Possession of a Professional Engineering License in the State of California; OR
• A bachelor's degree in business management, business administration, or public works/administration, with coursework in water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment, and management; OR
• A Master's degree with major coursework in engineering, life sciences, business or public administration, or a related field, is highly desirable.

• Minimum five years of progressively responsible experience in water and/or wastewater operations, including at least 2 years of supervisory or management experience is required.

Walking: Moves about on foot often through uneven terrain.

Carrying: Transports objects by holding them in hands or arms.

Handling: Seizes, holds or works with hands; specifically operating valves, adjusting control knobs, and computer.

Lifting: Raises and lowers pumps, motors, and miscellaneous awkward objects.

Reaching: Extends hand and arms in any direction.

Stooping: Bends body downward and forward by bending at the knees or waist.

Climbing: Ascends and descends ladders up to 50 feet in height.

Vision: Reads work tickets, meter dials, reservoir levels, data sheets, video messages, scales and gauges and operates District vehicles.

Sitting: Drives, often through rough terrain and sits in District vehicles for up to four hours per day.

Talking: Communicates by radio and in person.

Hearing: Hears well enough to receive communication by radio and in person.

Lifting: Up to 100 pounds; infrequent exertion.

Dragging: Up to 150 pounds of dead weight.

54 - 56 Bachelor's Degree OR D4 and T4, OR Grade III WW; OR Professional Engineering License in the State of California