Santa Margarita Water District
Utility Technician/ Operator (Streets)
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Join our team as a Utility Operator/Technician (Streets)!
Help Build and Protect SMWD’s Critical Infrastructure!
Santa Margarita Water District is seeking motivated, safety-focused individuals to join our Utility Technician/Operator (Streets) team. This recruitment is an opportunity to become part of a dedicated crew responsible for maintaining and improving the District’s critical water and wastewater infrastructure.
SMWD’s Utility Operator/Technician (Streets) team performs the essential construction and maintenance work that keeps our water and wastewater systems reliable. Crew members take on skilled field tasks including excavation, trenching, backfilling, asphalt and concrete restoration, pipeline and valve repairs, hydrant maintenance, and safe operation of heavy equipment, trucks, compactors, and power tools. Every job is performed with safety at the forefront—from trench shoring and confined space protocols to strict traffic control procedures, PPE use, and equipment operation standards. Whether you’re an experienced operator or launching a career in the utility trades, you’ll work outdoors, learn hands-on skills, respond to emergency repairs, and contribute to a team dedicated to quality workmanship, reliability, and public service.
About the Roles
Utility Operator (Streets)
Under general supervision, the Utility Operator (Streets) performs skilled work involving the construction, maintenance, and repair of streets and related District infrastructure. Responsibilities include excavation, trenching, asphalt and concrete restoration, operation of heavy equipment, and supporting emergency repairs to maintain reliable water and wastewater service.
This journey-level position requires independent judgment, strong mechanical aptitude, and the ability to safely operate a variety of vehicles, tools, and construction equipment while responding to both planned and emergency maintenance activities.
Utility Technician (Streets)
Under direct supervision, the Utility Technician (Streets) performs routine and semi-skilled construction, maintenance, and repair work while learning the operation of District infrastructure and equipment. This trainee-level position provides progressive hands-on experience in utility operations, with opportunities to develop technical skills and advance into higher-level classifications as certifications and experience are obtained.
The role includes physically demanding fieldwork, operation of hand and power tools, and participation in emergency and standby assignments while working alongside experienced utility professionals.
Meet Santa Margarita Water District
Santa Margarita Water District is a dynamic, forward-thinking agency dedicated to delivering high-quality potable water, recycled water, and wastewater services to more than 200,000 customers throughout Southern Orange County.
Our people drive our innovation and success. We foster a collaborative, human-first culture where employees work together to solve challenges, support one another, and make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve.
Our values include:
- Exemplary Service Excellence
- Intelligent Innovation
- Ethical Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency
- Environmental & Resource Stewardship
- Employee Development & Leadership Training
- Building Relationships that Strengthen Communities
What You Will Do
Utility Operator (Streets)
- Perform excavation, trenching, backfilling, asphalt and concrete restoration following utility work
- Operate and maintain heavy equipment, trucks, loaders, compactors, and construction equipment
- Install, maintain, and repair District infrastructure and related facilities
- Read maps, plans, and work orders to complete assignments accurately
- Maintain work records and documentation
- Follow traffic control, trench safety, and District safety procedures
- Respond to emergency repairs and participate in standby assignments as required
Utility Technician (Streets)
- Assist with construction, maintenance, and repair of pipelines, valves, hydrants, and related infrastructure
- Learn to operate and maintain District equipment, facilities, and utility systems
- Perform excavation, trenching, street restoration, and site cleanup
- Operate hand and power tools while learning safe utility maintenance practices
- Read maps, plans, and blueprints to support field operations
- Assist with preventative maintenance and repairs on District infrastructure
- Respond to emergency situations and participate in standby assignments as required
What You Bring
Utility Operator (Streets)
- Experience in construction, street maintenance, or utility field operations
- Ability to safely operate heavy equipment and perform physically demanding work
- Knowledge of asphalt, concrete, excavation, and trench safety practices
- Strong mechanical aptitude and commitment to quality workmanship
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative field crew
- Dedication to safety and reliable public service
Utility Technician (Streets)
- Willingness to learn construction, mechanical, and utility maintenance skills
- Strong work ethic and ability to perform physically demanding outdoor work
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
- Basic mechanical aptitude and interest in building a career in utility operations
- Commitment to teamwork, safety, and continuous learning
Education & Experience
Utility Operator (Streets)
High school diploma or GED and journey-level experience in construction, street maintenance, utility operations, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. A valid California Class A Commercial Driver’s License and SWRCB Distribution Operator Grade D2 Certificate are required.
Utility Technician (Streets)
High school diploma or GED and some experience performing labor-intensive construction, maintenance, or mechanical work is desirable. A California Class A Commercial Driver’s License must be obtained within 12 months of hire or promotion, and a SWRCB Distribution Operator Grade D1 Certificate must be obtained within 24 months of hire or promotion.
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