Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator

Join our team as a Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator!

Santa Margarita Water District is seeking an experienced and technically skilled Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator to support the daily operation of the District’s wastewater treatment and recycled water facilities. This advanced-level role plays a key part in maintaining safe, efficient, and regulatory-compliant treatment operations while providing day-to-day leadership and technical guidance to plant operations staff.

If you enjoy process optimization, mentoring others, and working in a fast-paced operational environment that directly supports public health and environmental stewardship, this is an exciting opportunity to grow your career in wastewater operations.

About the Role

Under general supervision, the Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator performs advanced operational duties related to wastewater treatment and recycled water production processes and serves as a technical lead for assigned staff and shift operations. The role monitors plant performance, coordinates operational activities, troubleshoots system issues, and helps ensure compliance with all applicable permit and regulatory requirements.

This position combines hands-on treatment plant operations with lead-level responsibilities, including training, coordinating work assignments, supporting process improvements, and assisting supervisors with operational oversight. Operators may work rotating shifts, standby assignments, weekends, holidays, and emergency response situations.

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 

Essential Functions:

What You Will Do

• Lead and participate in the operation and monitoring of wastewater treatment and recycled water production systems and equipment
• Monitor SCADA systems, pumps, chemical feed systems, solids handling processes, filtration, and disinfection systems
• Analyze plant data and make operational adjustments to maintain process efficiency and regulatory compliance
• Provide technical guidance and training to operations staff and assist with coordinating daily work activities
• Troubleshoot operational and equipment issues and respond to alarms, emergencies, and process upsets
• Perform inspections, preventative maintenance activities, and minor repairs on treatment equipment and facilities
• Maintain accurate operational logs, reports, sampling records, and regulatory documentation
• Coordinate with maintenance, laboratory, engineering, and supervisory staff to support plant operations and continuous improvement efforts
• Follow and promote safe work practices related to treatment operations, chemical handling, and confined space activities

What You Bring

• Strong knowledge of wastewater treatment plant operations, recycled water systems, and process control
• Advanced troubleshooting and operational decision-making skills
• Ability to lead and support staff in a 24/7 operational environment
• Strong understanding of regulatory compliance and treatment plant safety practices
• Excellent teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Commitment to operational excellence, reliability, and public service

Requisite Abilities/Qualifications & Guidelines:

Education & Experience

High school diploma or GED and progressively responsible experience in wastewater treatment plant operations, including advanced operational or lead-level responsibilities, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Appropriate California State Water Resources Control Board wastewater treatment certifications are required based on assignment. A valid California driver’s license and required safety certifications must be maintained.

Other Necessary Requirements/Additional Information:

To view the full job description click here: Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator

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