Department Assistant I (Engineering)

OLIVENHAIN MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT is seeking qualified candidates for the position of DEPARTMENT ASSISTANT I (Engineering).

Compensation: $26.87-$37.56 per hour depending on qualifications

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

This at will position performs a wide variety of administrative, and customer service functions. Must possess the ability to effectively organize and manage competing priorities, represent the District professionally, and work together with other administrative and customer service staff to cross train and provide back-up support as needed. Requires the ability to efficiently utilize a computer, copy machine, and other office equipment; proof read documents for details and accuracy; and compose reports or correspondence as required. Requires proven ability to handle cash and make correct change. Requires a working knowledge, understanding, and ability to communicate District policies and procedures to customers, both external and internal. A working knowledge and understanding of District safety rules and regulations, as well as active participation in the District’s safety programs is necessary. The position is expected to support the District Strategic Plan and Mission Statement by remaining informed and involved and exhibit a willingness to assure successful interactions. Must maintain strict confidentiality of privileged information and effectively utilize District resources. Reliable, stable attendance is required.

The following tasks are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not regularly perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business or staffing needs and changing business practices as defined by the General Manager.

% TIME       TASKS

50%    Provides general administrative and customer service support:

• Schedules and coordinates meetings, appointments, and events, including the completion of event registration and travel arrangements.
• Generates original, clear, and concise business correspondence, which may require posting and/or publication.
• Composes, edits, and proofreads correspondence, memos, reports, agendas, resolutions, and policies.
• Performs copying, faxing, filing, and other routine administrative tasks.
• Assists with the preparation of Board Packets and related materials.
• Assists with customer inquiries and problem resolution.
• Assists District personnel in meeting preparation, set-up and clean up.
• Assists with administrative support for various departments.
• Distributes incoming mail and organizes outgoing mail.
• Provides back-up support for the District front desk including assisting customers; taking messages and relaying calls; receiving payments and operating the cash drawer.
• Maintains department files and records in accordance with approved records retention schedules.

40%        Specific departmental needs:

• Utilizes a variety of computer software to perform data entry and enter information into: EAM, Service Order System, Water Quality, and other District information systems as needed, including entering customer service requests into the District’s computer system.
• Assists with project monitoring and budget tracking and assures operations within budgetary guidelines.
• Provides administrative and project support to Department Manager, Department Supervisors or designee as assigned.
• Acts independently and exercises individual initiative and judgment when necessary.
• Suggests policy changes in order to streamline department operations.
• Answers inquiries involving routine department procedures, activities, and functions.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

10%         Performs all related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Unless required by law, experience and education may be substituted for each other upon approval by the General Manager or their designee. 

EDUCATION: Education equivalent to graduation from high school with three years progressive experience in an administrative position required. Standard First Aid and CPR certifications are required.

EXPERIENCE: Minimum of three years experience performing a variety of administrative support functions, including composing, editing and proofing correspondence; front desk support; ability to effectively utilize a personal computer and various computer applications; proven ability to organize and manage competing tasks and priorities.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:

CONTACT RESPONSIBILITY

INTERNAL: Interaction with Supervisor to receive specific work assignments, general direction, and have results reviewed; District management to provide a variety of administrative support functions, District employees to discuss and resolve customer service issues; all other District personnel as required.

EXTERNAL: Interaction with consultants, contractors, reporters, customers, vendors, government agencies and officials to schedule meetings. District customers to address issues related to the payment of amounts owed to the District and other billing issues; vendors; other parties as they relate to visitors and incoming calls.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Good hearing, eyesight and speech; excellent ability to communicate, both verbally and in writing; ability to operate and utilize a personal computer and peripherals; able to tolerate periods of continuous sitting; may on an infrequent basis assist with lifting up to 50 pounds.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Work is primarily performed within an enclosed office setting with lighting and ventilation. Subject to conversational noise from other personnel within the facility, along with standard background noise found in an office environment. Subject to long periods of sitting and exposure to computer screen. When performing work outside the facility, subject to variable weather conditions and possible exposure to heavy equipment, dust, fumes, odor, and noise. Appropriate personal safety equipment is provided.

OMWD offers a very competitive benefits package including CalPERS retirement and options for fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums for family coverage. Interested candidates must submit a completed OMWD employment application and resume. All application materials will be evaluated and only the most highly qualified candidates will be invited to continue in the selection process. Subject to a background check for convictions directly related to job duties. Only job related convictions will be considered, and will not automatically disqualify the final candidate. Equal Opportunity Employer

Apply online at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/olivenhain

Application deadline: 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 31, 2025

OMWD Human Resources, 1966 Olivenhain Road, Encinitas, CA 92024