Lead Operator, Wastewater Treatment & Recycled Water

Santa Margarita Water District; Ladera Ranch (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement benefits

Medical, dental, vision and life ins.

ACWA health coverage

Job summary

Santa Margarita Water District is seeking a Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator to lead daily operations at our wastewater and recycled water facilities. This advanced role provides technical guidance, mentors staff, and ensures safe, compliant, and efficient plant performance.

The Lead Operator will monitor SCADA systems, coordinate work, troubleshoot issues, and support process improvements in a 24/7 environment, contributing to public health and environmental stewardship.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED with progressive lead-level wastewater experience.
• California wastewater treatment certifications as required for assignment.
• Valid California driver’s license and required safety certifications.

Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in the operation and monitoring of wastewater and recycled water production systems and equipment.
• Monitor SCADA systems, pumps, chemical feed systems, solids handling processes, filtration, and disinfection systems.
• Analyze plant data and make operational adjustments to maintain process efficiency and regulatory compliance.
• Provide technical guidance and training to operations staff and assist with coordinating daily work activities.
• Troubleshoot operational and equipment issues and respond to alarms, emergencies, and process upsets.
• Perform inspections, preventative maintenance activities, and minor repairs on treatment equipment and facilities.
• Maintain accurate operational logs, reports, sampling records, and regulatory documentation.
• Coordinate with maintenance, laboratory, engineering, and supervisory staff to support plant operations and continuous improvement efforts.
• Follow and promote safe work practices related to treatment operations, chemical handling, and confined space activities.

Skills

Lead staff supervision

Regulatory compliance

Troubleshooting

Operations optimization

Teamwork and communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

California wastewater certifications

Tools

SCADA

Job description

Santa Margarita Water District is seeking a Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator to lead daily operations at our wastewater and recycled water facilities. This advanced role provides technical guidance, mentors staff, and ensures safe, compliant, and efficient plant performance.

The Lead Operator will monitor SCADA systems, coordinate work, troubleshoot issues, and support process improvements in a 24/7 environment, contributing to public health and environmental stewardship.