Utility Technician (valve & Hydrants)

Join our team as a Utility Technician (Valve & Hydrants)!

Santa Margarita Water District is seeking a motivated and hands-on Utility Technician (Valve & Hydrants) to support the maintenance and reliability of the District’s water distribution system. This entry-level role plays an important part in ensuring valves, hydrants, and related infrastructure operate safely and efficiently—helping deliver reliable water service and fire protection to the community.

If you enjoy working outdoors, learning new skills, and being part of a crew that keeps essential infrastructure running, this is a great opportunity to build a long-term career in water operations.

About the Role

Under direct supervision, the Utility Technician (Valve & Hydrants) performs routine and semi-skilled work in the construction, maintenance, and repair of water distribution system components. This includes assisting with preventative maintenance activities such as exercising valves, flushing hydrants, and supporting repairs and replacements of system infrastructure.

This is a trainee-level position designed to provide hands-on experience and skill development. As knowledge, certifications, and performance grow, employees may progress to higher-level Utility Operator classifications.

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 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 

What You Will Do

• Assist with maintaining and operating water distribution system components including valves, hydrants, blow-offs, and air vacs
• Perform preventative maintenance such as valve exercising, hydrant flushing, and painting
• Support installation, repair, and replacement of valves, pipelines, and related infrastructure
• Perform excavation, trenching, backfilling, and site restoration activities
• Operate and maintain hand tools, power tools, and light to heavy equipment
• Track and document work completed using the District’s maintenance management system
• Follow safety procedures including traffic control, confined space entry, and proper use of PPE
• Work closely with crew members and communicate effectively with supervisors and team leads

What You Bring

• Strong work ethic and willingness to learn in a hands-on field environment
• Ability to perform physically demanding work in outdoor conditions
• Mechanical aptitude and interest in water system operations
• Ability to follow instructions and work effectively as part of a team
• Commitment to safety and reliable work practices

Education & Experience

High school diploma or GED and some experience in construction, maintenance, or mechanical work, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Relevant water distribution certifications may be required or obtained within a specified timeframe.

Other Necessary Requirements/Additional Information:

To view full job description click here: Utility Technician (Valve & Hydrants) Job Description

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