Water Treatment Operator I/II

The Santa Fe Irrigation District (SFID) is seeking a motivated and dependable individual to join our team as a Water Treatment Operator I/II, at either the I or II level, depending on experience and qualifications.

This is a great opportunity to work in a dynamic and supportive environment, helping to operate the District’s water treatment plant. The ideal candidate will have water treatment experience and the required SWRCB Drinking Water Treatment Operator Grade 1 or 2 certification. Whether you are starting your career in water utilities or bringing valuable experience, we invite you to apply and grow with us.

About the Position:

Overview of Responsibilities

The Water Treatment Operator I/II performs a wide range of duties in the operation and maintenance of the District’s water treatment plant, lake management and water conveyance systems, facilities and equipment using the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to monitor, regulate, perform and evaluate water flows and treatment processes. While the incumbent will start by focusing on the operation and maintenance of the dewatering / solids handling facility processes and equipment, other responsibilities include collecting water samples and performing laboratory analyses; conducting plant inspections; and responding during emergency situations including HAZMAT-related events. The role involves exposure to toxic or caustic chemicals and may require work in confined spaces and climbing ladders/scaffolding to work in high, precarious places. Employees in this class shall maintain physical conditions that allow them to act as Hazardous Materials First Responder – Awareness Level for HAZMAT emergencies.

Qualifications

Qualified candidates should have water treatment experience and the ability to work collaboratively with a team, as well as independently. Certification requirements vary by level (T1 for Water Treatment Operator I; T2 for Water Treatment Operator II).

For a full job description, please visit our Careers page at Class Specifications | Water Treatment Operator I | Class Spec Details and Class Specifications | Water Treatment Operator II | Class Spec Details.

About Us:

The Santa Fe Irrigation District (SFID) is a public water agency located in northern San Diego County, California. Established in 1923, the District provides water services to the communities of Rancho Santa Fe, Fairbanks Ranch, and the City of Solana Beach. SFID manages local water resources, including surface water from Lake Hodges, imported water from the San Diego County Water Authority, and recycled water. The District is focused on sustainable water management, infrastructure maintenance, and ensuring a reliable water supply for residential, agricultural, and commercial customers. The District a joint owner (along with the San Dieguito Water District) of the R.E. Badger Filtration Plant, a conventional water treatment plant utilizing flocculation/coagulation, sedimentation and filtration to take imported and local surface water sources and treat them for potable use.

SFID values teamwork, inclusiveness, continuous improvement, transparency, accountability, and sustainability. These principles guide the District’s commitment to respectful collaboration, pursuing excellence, open communication, and responsible and high-quality service.

This is your opportunity to join our high-performing team as a full-time Water Treatment Operator I/II. Along with an excellent benefits package and 9/80 flex schedule, SFID offers a positive culture that fosters an atmosphere of team spirit and encourages personal and professional growth. If you want to know your work has a direct impact on the community, we have a great opportunity for you!

About our Total Benefits Package (it includes but is not limited to):

Benefits

• Health: Medical-District pays 98%, Dental-District pays 100% and Vision-available at low cost to employee
• Retirement/Pension: Participation in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS)
• Paid Leave: Accrual starting just above 22 days per year for vacation, personal and sick leaves; increases to 26 days after completion of 5 years of service
• Holidays: Ten paid holidays per year, including 1 floating holiday
• Deferred Compensation: Up to $4,000 matching on 457 plan for employee retention ($1,500 for 3-5 years of service, $3,000 for 6-10, $4,000 for 11+)
• Education Reimbursement: Up to $4,000 annually for qualifying coursework after six months’ probationary period

Compensation

• Water Treatment Operator I: $35.22 – $45.79/hourly
• Water Treatment Operator II: $40.77 – $53.01/hourly
• Annual Merit Increase: Up to 3% each year of employment anniversary based on job performance
• Cost-of-living Adjustment: For all employees guaranteed each July for 2026 and 2027 equal to CPI for San Diego (in addition to merit increase)

The Water Treatment Operator I/II position is a non-exempt, entry-to-full working level class. For advancement to the Water Treatment Operator II, certain proficiency criteria must be met. Typically, proficiency is met within a 24-month period. There is also advancement possible to the journey-level, Water Treatment Operator III class.

About the Recruitment Process:

To be considered for the Water Treatment Operator I/II, please select the APPLY button to complete the online application and supplemental questionnaire by the deadline, Monday, May 25, 2026 at 11:59pm. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of an online application.

Tentative Recruitment Schedule

• First Interviews: Wednesday, June 3, 2026
• Final Interviews: Wednesday, June 17, 2026