Lead Water Systems Operator

 Ideal Candidate

Are you experienced in monitoring and operating a potable water distribution system? Are you organized, results-oriented, have the ability to prioritize work and capable of overseeing the Water Systems Operators? If so, we would like to hear from you.

We welcome veterans and transitioning military. Are you a former member of the military with experience as a Utilitiesman (UT) in the Navy, Water Support Technician (92W) in the Army, Water and Fuel Systems Maintenance (3E4X1) in the Air Force, or similar role in the Marines or Coast Guard? Consider joining a team of hardworking employees who work to protect and preserve water, one of our most valuable natural resources. The experience you’ve gained during your service can continue to positively impact the world with a career at Otay.

The Otay Water District offers excellent benefits, a balanced work/life environment and is a leader in the industry.

About the Position and Department

The Lead Water System Operator reports directly to the Water Systems Supervisor and is a part of a dedicated, service-oriented team where collaboration and leadership are promoted at all levels. The position participated in rotational shifts and standby duties as required to meet staffing needs.

The Operations Department is responsible for the operations, maintenance and repair of all Otay Water District facilities and equipment. Facilities include pipelines, reservoirs, pump stations, lift stations, and a reclamation plant for potable water and recycled water distribution, wastewater collections, and wastewater reclamation. The Operations Department has a staff of approximately 57 employees.

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. on November 30, 2025. For information on the recruitment process, please go to the Employment section of our website www.otaywater.gov or click here.

Examples of Duties

• Assists the Water Systems Supervisor in planning, implementing, coordinating, and documenting the activities and programs of the division.
• Leads, guides, coordinates and participates in the operation of the potable and recycled water distribution systems of the district by monitoring and adjusting flows from reservoirs, tanks and suppliers.
• Coordinates and assigns the daily work activities for the Water System Operators and monitors progress.
• Instructs, assigns and reviews the work of the water systems operators and disinfection personnel.
• Ensures that established policies, procedures and safety practices are observed.
• Assists in budget preparation.
• Obtains authorization and enters confined spaces in accordance with established safety procedures.
• Reads and records reservoir levels, water flow meters, chlorine and ammonia ratio, engine hours and fuel usage. Checks oil levels and bearing glands.
• Checks reservoir levels and makes adjustments to valves to maintain proper water levels. Switches valves to redirect flow. Starts, synchronizes, monitors and regulates the operation and status of valves, pumping facilities, disinfection facilities and other appurtenances.
• Operates automated controls to ensure that commitments for water are met, as set by customer demand and standard practice. Validates unusual readings by contacting other field personnel for verification. Notifies supervisory or maintenance personnel of apparent unusual conditions.
• Performs emergency shutdowns. Reloads lines. Sets up high-lines. Sets up traffic control, signs, cones and barriers to controls traffic.
• Participates in rotational shift and standby duties as required which includes weekends and holidays.
• Operates the District’s SCADA system and provides input for functional enhancement of the system as needed. 
• Operates District vehicles as required.

To see the complete job descriptions go to the Employment section of our website www.otaywater.gov or click here.

Required Licenses and/or Certifications

• A valid California Class C Driver’s License and a safe driving record.
• A valid California State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Grade III Certificate.

Minimum Experience, Education, and Training Requirements

Experience:

Three (3) years of experience in monitoring and operating a potable water distribution system, including one (1) year experience equivalent to a Water System Operator III.

Education:

High school diploma or G.E.D.

This position will be subject to random drug testing during employment.  

This is an hourly, non-exempt position.

Otay Water District is a Smoking, Tobacco and Nicotine Free Campus.

All Otay Water District employees are at-will pursuant to California Water Code, Section 71362.