Operations & Maintenance Manager

Open Until Filled 

Applications will be accepted until there are a sufficient number of highly qualified applicants from which to make a selection. Candidates should submit their materials online as soon as possible to ensure consideration. However, interviews may be conducted throughout the recruitment process and this opening may close at any time. Applicants should attach any relevant certifications or licenses to their application.

Compensation 

Annual salary for this position is set at $168,225 – $225,438. The District provides 4 medical plan options, with a District contribution that covers all plans & tiers at 100% for 2025. Benefits also include District-paid Dental, Vision, Life, and Long-Term Disability Insurance. The District participates in Social Security and the CalPERS pension program, offering the 3% at 60 formula for Classic members. Employees can also participate in 457 and 401a deferred compensation plans; after one year of employment, the District provides a $4,500 match. In addition, managers receive a monthly car allowance of $300, ($400 for electric vehicles), and 40 hours of management leave. The District offers tuition reimbursement after one year of employment. An on-site fitness facility can be utilized by all employees. 

Essential Functions

The Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Manager oversees and is responsible for various field functions and departments, including Construction; Maintenance Services; Mechanical/Electrical; Wastewater Collections; Wastewater Reclamation; and Water Operations. Direct supervision is divided with the Assistant Operations & Maintenance Manager, depending on the skill set of the selected candidate. This position is a member of the management team and represents management with field staff. The O&M Manager develops and implements operations goals, policies, and work standards; evaluates efficiency and output; plans and monitors the department budget; and reviews maintenance and construction contracts. This position also serves as Incident Commander during emergency events. 

Specific projects include the improvement of District-owned properties; developing interagency agreements; overseeing District-wide improvements related to operations facilities; and implementing information and operational technology integration into field operations. 

Typical Qualifications

The successful candidate is a strong leader, capable of mentoring both new and experienced staff. The Operations & Maintenance Manager will empower staff to make decisions within established guidelines and take corrective action as needed. This person must support and implement management initiatives in a positive manner. Experience as an Incident Commander during emergency events is preferred; this person must remain calm and demonstrate leadership to staff during those events. The O&M Manager is expected to establish and maintain effective relationships with people and groups contacted in the course of the work; they must communicate and present information clearly and effectively to a variety of audiences. 

The ideal Operations & Maintenance Manager has knowledge of water & wastewater operations and related maintenance needs for a public sector agency. Prior management experience in one of those departments at a public agency is highly preferred. Education in water or wastewater operations is preferred. 

A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities include a bachelor’s degree in public administration, water or wastewater technology, or related field; and five years of experience in water, wastewater, construction, operations or maintenance, including two years in a supervisory or management role. Possession of, or ability to obtain, a Class C California driver’s license is required. Within 12 months of employment, the successful candidate must obtain required certifications to function as Incident Commander. A State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution 5 certificate and a California Water Environment Association Collection System Maintenace Technologist Grade 3 is desirable but not required.

Supplemental Information

Vallecitos Water District is an award-winning special district located in north San Diego County. Our mission is to serve as water and wastewater specialists, providing exceptional & sustainable services.

Reliability benefits the customer. Sustainability benefits the environment. Combine them and you get Vallecitos Water District – a forward-thinking organization implementing necessary projects and procedures to encourage a bright, responsible future for all. Vallecitos has initiated multiple projects through the years to ease elevated water and power demands today for availability tomorrow.

 Seawater Desalination – In 2016, the District began receiving approximately 30 percent of the District’s annual supply water from the Claude “Bud” Lewis’ constructed on the Carlsbad coast. This is enough water to meet the needs of more than 8,100 families for one year. The arrival of water from this local, endless source complements current imported supplies, increasing availability despite drought and regulatory issues that have threatened Vallecitos supplies in the past. 

Meadowlark Water Reclamation Facility – Vallecitos’ Meadowlark facility has been recycling wastewater since 1981, and now the plant is able to process up to 74 percent of the wastewater Vallecitos customers generate. After final treatment, the recycled water is sold to the City of Carlsbad and Olivenhain Municipal Water District for irrigation purposes. 

Twin Oaks Reservoirs – Buried underground to better blend with the rural community, the 33-million gallon capacity Twin Oaks Reservoir No. 1 and its neighbor – the 40-million gallon capacity Twin Oaks Reservoir No. 2– are not seen but their presence is definitely felt. The latter tank is the largest of its kind in North America. The central location of the pre-stressed concrete structures provides a both operational and emergency storage. 

Encina Wastewater Authority – The regional facility located in the City of Carlsbad is partially owned by Vallecitos. The facility processes approximately 22 million gallons of wastewater a day (mgd) onsite. Along with Vallecitos, effluent is also taken from five other local agencies and treated to accepted regulatory standards. The facility converts wastewater solids into environmentally friendly dry pellets for use as an organic fertilizer.