Distribution Operator I/II/Senior

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

Rancho California Water District is currently seeking a well-qualified individuals to fill two (2) Distribution Operator I/II/Senior positions. Interested individuals must submit a resume and a completed application by 12:00PM Tuesday, July 8, 2025 . The recruitment process may include, but not limited to, an application review, written exam and panel interview.

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JOB DESCRIPTION
Under immediate progressing to general supervision to perform a variety of water utility distribution system related duties that include coordinating the maintenance, servicing and repair of valves and related appurtenances; responds to system emergencies, assesses extent of situation and notifies appropriate departments; coordinates and performs shut downs and performs related duties as assigned

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
Distribution Operator I
This is the entry-level position in the distribution operator class series. Positions assigned to this level perform limited or routine potable and recycled water distribution system operations, maintenance and repair duties under close supervision. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the Distribution Operator II level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.

Distribution Operator I I
This is the journey level position in the distribution operator class series. Positions assigned to this level perform a full range of potable and recycled water distribution system operations, maintenance and repair duties under general supervision. Because employees in classifications at this level are expected to be fully trained, competent and understand water system operations maintenance and repair, such position typically requires significant previous work experience in the appropriate field. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.

Senior Distribution Operator
This is the advanced journey level position in the distribution operator class series. Positions assigned to this level may provide lead supervision to journey level staff and independently perform highly technical and specialized potable and recycled water distribution system operations, maintenance and repair duties at a level beyond that found at a journey level. Lead duties may include providing technical assistance and training Positions at this level may be expected to act as the foreman on an as needed basis.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Performs semi-skilled and skilled work in the repair and maintenance of valves used in potable and reclaimed water facilities
• Assist in the execution of the valve turning and maintenance program.
• Process all scheduled mainline shutdown requests; execute scheduled and emergency mainline shutdowns.
• Perform mainline and facility shutdowns of systems as needed for emergencies or planned maintenance.
• Operate equipment to and from job sites, including valve turning machines, vacuum systems, various manual and power hand tools, lifting equipment, and other as needed.
• Assist in locating District valve placements and valve tie locations as requested by other companies or agencies to.
• Read and understand as-builts.
• Coordinate with State Inspectors to efficiently maintain Vail Dam distribution appurtenances.
• Work collaboratively with Operations and Maintenance departments to effectively perform water quality and operational tasks.
• Maintain assigned vehicles and equipment, including but not limited to oil levels, tool function, motor function and light function.
• Respond to Emergency scenarios and work under pressure while multi-tasking.
• Operates compressors, valve machines, jackhammers and a wide variety of other hand, hydraulic and power equipment; checks condition of equipment; cleans and maintains tools and equipment used in the field and shops. Collect GPS coordinates using District sub-meter devices.
• Create and update valve tie details with pertinent information.
• Log and analyze valve turning date to proposed repair and replacement schedules for all system valves.
• Prepare and submit information about changes needed in the districts mapping and geographic information systems (GIS) to accurately reflect field conditions.
• Ensure water quality safety regulations by flushing appropriate appurtenances.
• Plan and prepare traffic control plans as required by city policy or watch manual.
• Perform related duties as assigned.
  
  

QUALIFICATIONS
Distribution Operator I
Knowledge of:

• Standard utility construction and water systems operation and repair techniques and principles.
• Basic mechanical principles and basic water math
• Proper work safety standards.

Ability to:

• Operate a variety of hand and power tools.
• Read, understand, and comply with District safety policies and procedures.
• Follow written and verbal instructions and work effectively with other crew members.
• Operate a motor vehicle.

In addition to the qualifications for Distribution Operator I:

Distribution Operator II
Knowledge of:

• District service boundaries
• District organization, facilities and services.
• Methods, materials and equipment used in the maintenance and repair of appurtenances and system hydraulics.
• Basic water distribution systems and meter equipment and systems.
• Advanced utility construction techniques and principles.
• Applicable laws, and regulations.
• District policies and procedures related to customer service and customer relations.
  
  

Ability to:

• Operate hydraulic arm system and vacuum system.
• Operate a variety of hand and power tools.
• Diagnose problems (i.e., leaks and/or equipment failure) and provide effective solutions.
• Coordinate assigned activities with the activities of other departments.
• Collect GPS data and upload to GIS system.
• Navigate and understand the Districts SCADA system

In addition to the qualifications for Distribution Operator II:

Senior Distribution Operator
Knowledge of:

• Applicable codes, standards, laws, and regulations.
• Advance water distribution principals.
  
  

Ability to:

• Diagnose advanced problems and provide effective solutions.
• Coordinate assigned duties with other departments and/or agencies.
• Prepare field maps for Valve crew and process completed field data to GIS system.
• Execute scheduled and emergency mainline shutdowns.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS
The essential functions of this position may require the employee to perform the following physical activities:

• Operates a District vehicle to travel between job sites and remote facilities.
• Must be able to carry, push, pull, reach and lift equipment and parts up to 50 lbs. and heavier weights with the use of proper assistance.
• Stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl and climb during regular duties.
• Communicates verbally with District management, co-workers, and the public in face-to-face, one-on-one, and group meetings.
• Use office equipment such as computers, copier, and fax machines.
• Regularly uses a telephone or radio for communication.
• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to speak and hear both in person, by telephone, and radio.
• Vision within normal ranges including color vision with or without correction.
• Medical clearance to wear respiratory protective equipment.
• Regular attendance.

The essential functions of this position may expose the employee to the following working conditions:

• 50%-100% of work time spent outside a building exposed to the sun.
• Inclement weather.
• Hot and cold temperatures.
• Electrical hazards.
• Heights.
• Confined spaces.
• Potentially dangerous tools and equipment.
• Traffic hazards.
• Trenching and excavations.
• Wildlife.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and overtime, as necessary.
• May also be required to serve on standby duty as assigned by management.

SELECTION GUIDELINES

The appropriate knowledge, skills, and abilities can be achieved through a variety of combinations of experience and training. A typical example is:

Distribution Operator I

Experience:
One (1) year of experience in a utility or public works program, preferably Maintenance or Distribution related. construction/maintenance and repair experience.

Public utility experience, preferred. Education/Training:
Equivalent to completion of the 12th grade of high school
Licenses and Certificates:
D1 Water Distribution certificate SWRCB, required.

D2 Water Distribution certificate - SWRCB, required within first 12 months.
Valid California driver's license, required.

First Aid - obtained within 1 year.
Distribution Operator II
Experience:
Two (2) years of increasing water distribution/maintenance experience
Education/Training:
Some college courses or formalized training in Water Technology or similar area of study, preferred. Licenses and Certificates:
Valid California driver's license, required.

Grade D2 Water Distribution Certificate - SWRCB, required.

Confined Space Certificate, required.

Traffic Control Certificate, required.

Grade T1 Water Treatment Certificate SWRCB, required.

First Aid, required.
Senior Distribution Operator
Experience:
Four (4) years of increasingly responsible experience within Water Distribution and/or Maintenance.

Public utility experience, required. Education/Training: Some college courses in Water Technology or similar area of study, preferred.
Licenses and Certificates:
Valid California driver's license, required.

Grade D3 Water Distribution Certificate - SWRCB, required.

Confined Space Certificate, required.

Traffic Control Certificate, required.

Grade T2 Water Treatment Certificate SWRCB, required.

Water Technology Certificate, desired.

Crane Operator Certification, desired.
First Aid, required.