Construction Equipment Operator

Padre Dam Municipal Water District; Santee (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator in Santee, California. This role involves operating heavy equipment like excavators and backhoes and leading a crew for essential infrastructure projects.

The ideal candidate will have a High School Diploma or G.E.D., four years of experience in construction, and hold a Class A commercial driver’s license. You will play a critical role in maintaining water distribution and wastewater systems.

Qualifications

• Four years of experience in basic construction, preferably underground.
• Ability to respond to after-hour emergency calls.
• Insurable and to pass a background check.

Responsibilities

• Operate a variety of heavy equipment in construction projects.
• Lead a crew and train team members on job sites.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards.

Skills

Heavy equipment operation

Leadership skills

Safety regulations knowledge

Emergency response

Education

High School Diploma or G.E.D.

Valid California driver’s license

Class A commercial driver’s license

Water Distribution Operator Grade 2

Tools

Excavators

Backhoes

Graders

Cranes

Forklifts

Job description

Padre Dam Municipal Water District is seeking a dedicated Construction Equipment Operator to join our water and sewer systems team to make a meaningful impact in our community. This role offers the opportunity to work with a variety of heavy equipment—excavators, backhoes, graders, skid steers, cranes, forklifts, and more—while playing a critical role in installing, repairing, and maintaining essential infrastructure.

As a Construction Equipment Operator, you'll not only operate motorized equipment, but also lead a crew, train team members, and ensure every job site meets the highest safety standards.

In this role, you will play a critical part in the installation, maintenance, and repair of the District's water distribution and wastewater collection systems. Your skills and leadership will be essential in responding to emergency situations, coordinating field activities, and delivering high-quality infrastructure projects that support our community.

Construction Equipment Operators may be required to work flexible hours and/or extended work shifts including weekends and holidays, work rotating one-week standby shifts, and respond to after-hour emergency calls.

This position is eligible for appointment within the following Salary Grades:

Salary Grade 20L: $38.30 - $54.17/hour

Salary Grade 23L: $42.08 - $59.51/hour

To view the complete job classification for this position, click here.

Experience & Licensing Requirements:

Training/Experience Required:

1. High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D.) and four years experience in basic construction, preferably underground construction and the operation of heavy equipment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.

2. Incumbents must be insurable and pass a background check.

Licensing Requirements:

1. Valid California driver’s license; Class A commercial driver’s license required and must be maintained throughout employment.

2. Water Distribution Operator Grade 2 certificate from the Water Resources Control Board.

3. Grade 3 is preferable or CWEA (California Water Environment Association) Collection System Maintenance Grade 2 or higher is preferable.