Chief Water Operator - Lead Water Quality & Ops

City of Menlo Park; Menlo Park (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Menlo Park seeks a Chief Water Operator to lead the water distribution division, supervising staff and directing operations, maintenance, and quality control. The role collaborates with technical and engineering staff to ensure water quality in line with state requirements and oversees contractor work and safety protocols.

The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, analytical skills, and a customer-service mindset, with experience supervising water maintenance teams and coordinating

Qualifications

• Two-year degree with major coursework in chemistry, biology, bacteriology, natural sciences or related field.
• Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in water quality control, water distribution, and/or water treatment, including two (2) years of lead or supervisory experience.
• Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license by time of appointment.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a Backflow Device Tester Certificate (AWWA).
• Possession of a Grade III Water Distribution Operator Certificate (SWRCB).
• Possession of a Grade II Water Treatment Operator Certificate (SWRCB); may be required if treating water.

Responsibilities

• Plans, organizes, and reviews the work of staff assigned to water distribution systems and facilities.
• Trains staff in work and safety procedures and equipment use; implements procedures and standards.
• Performs complex water maintenance and operations duties; provides technical assistance to crews.
• Administers customer service field work, maintenance, lab testing, and quality control programs.
• Monitors and coordinates maintenance and repair of water meters and distribution lines.
• Oversees safety and code compliance for field operations and contractors.

Skills

Leadership

Supervisory experience

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Communication

Customer service mindset

Education

Two-year degree in chemistry/biology/natural sciences

Tools

SCADA systems

Water meters

Job description

City of Menlo Park seeks a Chief Water Operator to lead the water distribution division, supervising staff and directing operations, maintenance, and quality control. The role collaborates with technical and engineering staff to ensure water quality in line with state requirements and oversees contractor work and safety protocols.

The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, analytical skills, and a customer-service mindset, with experience supervising water maintenance teams and coordinating