Water Plant Operator

Santa Margarita Water District is seeking a skilled and motivated Water Plant Operator to help deliver safe, high-quality drinking and recycled water to the community. This hands-on, mission-critical role supports the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of treatment facilities that directly impact public health and environmental sustainability.

If you enjoy working with complex systems, solving real-time challenges, and being part of a team that keeps essential services running 24/7, this is a great opportunity to grow your career in water operations!

Under general supervision, the Water Plant Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining water and recycled water treatment systems and equipment. This role involves analyzing system performance, troubleshooting operational issues, and ensuring treatment processes meet strict regulatory and quality standards.

Operators work both independently and as part of a team, using advanced equipment and control systems to maintain optimal plant performance. The position may include shift work, standby assignments, and emergency response responsibilities to support continuous operations.

Santa Margarita Water District is a dynamic, forward-thinking agency dedicated to delivering high-quality potable water, recycled water, and wastewater services to its 200,000 customers across Southern Orange County. As one of the region’s largest and most impactful utilities, we are committed to the highest standards of transparency, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

Our people drive our progress, innovation, and results. Our collaborative, human-first culture fosters the sense of fun, comradery, and a rewarding sense of purpose as we do work that matters.

Dynamic teams of intelligent individuals work collaboratively to achieve SMWD’s goals and solve challenges with a common aim that fosters a unique bond that is not often found in governmental agencies.

Santa Margarita Water District’s values include:

• Exemplary service excellence
• Intelligent innovation that is forward-thinking and adaptive
• Ethical fiscal responsibility and transparency
• Environmental and resource stewardship
• Employee development and leadership training
• Building relationships that strengthen communities

• Monitor and operate treatment plant systems, including pumps, filtration, disinfection, and process control equipment
• Analyze plant performance data and make operational adjustments to maintain water quality and system efficiency
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and respond to system alarms, malfunctions, and emergencies
• Perform routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and minor repairs on plant equipment
• Maintain accurate operational logs, reports, and regulatory documentation
• Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations and permit requirements
• Support sampling programs and laboratory testing activities as required
• Follow and enforce safety procedures, including chemical handling and confined space practices

• Strong understanding of water treatment processes and plant operations
• Mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot complex systems
• Ability to analyze data and make sound operational decisions
• Commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence
• Ability to work shifts, respond to emergencies, and operate in a team-oriented environment

High school diploma or GED and experience in water or wastewater treatment operations, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Appropriate State Water Resources Control Board certifications are required based on assignment.

Possession of the following certificates:

• California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 certification, or ability to obtain the certification, within 12 months of hire date.
• California State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 certification.