Chief Plant Operator: Water Systems Leader

American Water Works Association; Jurupa Valley (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

American Water Works Association in California seeks a senior water operations leader to supervise staff and oversee the operation, maintenance, and regulatory compliance of water production, treatment, storage, and distribution facilities. You will ensure water quality and safety, supervise technical staff, and coordinate with regulators and contractors.

The role requires extensive experience in water systems, strong leadership, and a commitment to safety and regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of water treatment, production, distribution, and water quality management.
• Experience with groundwater wells, treatment facilities, reservoirs, and distribution systems.
• Understanding of drinking water regulations and compliance requirements.
• Knowledge of water quality monitoring and sampling techniques.
• Familiarity with SCADA, telemetry, and control systems.
• Experience supervising staff, training, evaluation, and discipline.
• Safety programs and CAL-OSHA compliance knowledge.
• Budget preparation and administration.
• Knowledge of laws, codes, and district policies.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, supervise, review, and participate in work of operators and staff.
• Oversee groundwater wells, treatment, storage, and distribution facilities.
• Monitor production, storage, pressure zones, and pumping efficiency.
• Review water quality results and develop blending strategies for regulated constituents.
• Coordinate water quality sampling programs and analyze data.
• Investigate water quality complaints and incidents; respond to emergencies.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and coordinate reporting/permits.
• Maintain records and oversee preventive maintenance programs.
• Supervise repairs and contractor services; oversee SCADA and automation systems.
• Provide technical oversight of treatment operations and operator certification requirements.

Skills

Water treatment knowledge

Water production & distribution

Regulatory compliance

Water quality monitoring

SCADA/Instrumentation

Supervision & training

Safety programs (CAL-OSHA)

Budget preparation

Operational planning

Regulatory reporting & inspections

Communication & leadership

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Additional coursework in water systems / supervision

SWRCB T3 Water Treatment Operator

SWRCB D3 Water Distribution Operator

CPR/First Aid Certification

SWRCB T4 Water Treatment Operator

SWRCB D4 Water Distribution Operator

California Class C Driver License

California Class A CDL with Tanker Endorsement

Tools

SCADA systems

Hydro excavation equipment

Vacuum excavation equipment

Job description

American Water Works Association in California seeks a senior water operations leader to supervise staff and oversee the operation, maintenance, and regulatory compliance of water production, treatment, storage, and distribution facilities. You will ensure water quality and safety, supervise technical staff, and coordinate with regulators and contractors.

The role requires extensive experience in water systems, strong leadership, and a commitment to safety and regulatory standards.