Job Description

Operational Technical Services (OTS)

Position Title: Lead Water System Operator

Salary: $37.00 – $43.50/hour

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8-Hour Shift

Company Overview

Operational Technical Services (OTS) is one of the fastest-growing private water and wastewater utility staffing providers in the country. We offer certified professionals in water treatment, distribution, wastewater treatment, collections, engineering, laboratory, water quality, maintenance, and training. OTS provides temporary, temp-to-hire, direct hire, and emergency on-call opportunities—backed by excellent benefits—to municipalities, special districts, and private utilities nationwide.

Position Overview

The Lead Water System Operator will assist the Chief Plant Operator in managing water distribution and collection system operations—primarily focusing on well systems and regulatory compliance. This role supervises field personnel, ensures system functionality, and maintains adherence to state and federal standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Supervision & Support

1. Assist in supervising personnel involved in the operation, maintenance, and repair of water wells, pumps, and pipelines.
2. Provide leadership and ensure safe, efficient task completion by field teams.
3. Troubleshoot operational issues and ensure regulatory compliance across all activities.

Operational Planning

1. Prioritize and coordinate maintenance and repair schedules.
2. Work with contractors and developers to ensure compliance with construction standards.
3. Support infrastructure improvements within water distribution and collection systems.

Regulatory Compliance & Reporting

1. Ensure systems comply with standards from the CA State Water Resources Control Board and related agencies.
2. Complete and submit reports for water quality monitoring and well performance.
3. Maintain detailed records of inspections, repairs, and operations.

Customer Service & Communication

1. Serve as a liaison to the public, contractors, and internal teams regarding system issues.
2. Address customer service inquiries related to water supply and system performance.

Safety & Training

1. Promote and manage safety protocols across water system operations.
2. Train junior staff on safety, compliance, and operational procedures.
3. Conduct audits and report safety incidents to the Chief Operator.

Budgeting & Inventory Management

1. Assist in managing departmental budgets and authorize expenditures as needed.
2. Monitor inventory of materials and tools to support maintenance activities.

Continuous Improvement

1. Support the development of best practices for well operations and efficiency.
2. Contribute to performance metrics and participate in regular training sessions.

Other Duties

1. Assist with emergency response, troubleshooting, and system upgrades as assigned.

Qualifications:

Certifications & Licenses

• Valid California D-3 and T-2 Water Certifications (in good standing)
• Valid California Driver’s License

Technical Knowledge

• Strong understanding of water well systems, pumps, casings, treatment processes, and distribution networks
• Familiarity with California water quality standards and regulatory practices
• Ability to interpret regulations from the CA Regional Water Quality Control Board and the State Water Resources Control Board

Experience

• 3–5 years in water system operations (minimum)
• At least 2 years in a supervisory or lead role
• Experience with installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of well systems
• Customer service and public engagement experience

Physical Requirements

• Visual and auditory ability to observe, communicate, and operate equipment
• Ability to lift/move up to 50 lbs and work in varying environmental conditions
• Physical mobility for walking, crouching, bending, and entering/exiting vehicles frequently

Work Environment

• Primarily field-based, overseeing well site operations and distribution infrastructure
• Occasional office work for reporting, planning, and coordination

Job Requirements

• Utility Pants: Durable, work-appropriate pants required
• Safety Shoes: Steel-toed or protective footwear is mandatory
• Must pass background check and drug screening
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States

Equal Opportunity Statement

Operational Technical Services (OTS) is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer . All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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