Crew Chief (Mechanical)
Salary: $104,868.92 - $144,563.12 Annually
Location: 92688, CA
Job Type: Full-Time Represented
Job Number: 2026-6
Department: Operations
Division: Mechanical Maintenance
Closing: 4/15/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Job Description
Join our team as a Crew Chief (Mechanical)!
Santa Margarita Water District is seeking a highly skilled and safety-focused Crew Chief (Mechanical) to lead and perform advanced journey-level work in the maintenance, repair, and operation of the District's mechanical systems and facilities. This full-time, represented position plays a critical role in ensuring the reliability and performance of pumps, motors, valves, treatment equipment, and related infrastructure that support essential water and wastewater operations.
This is a working-lead role that combines hands-on technical expertise with daily field leadership, supporting operational excellence and system reliability across the District.
About the Role
Under general supervision, the Crew Chief (Mechanical) serves as an advanced journey-level lead responsible for coordinating, assigning, and participating in the work of maintenance crews performing mechanical, electrical, and equipment-related tasks. This role requires deep knowledge of mechanical systems, strong troubleshooting skills, and the ability to guide and train staff while ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with District standards.
The position works closely with supervisors, engineers, and operations staff to plan work, resolve complex equipment issues, and support preventative maintenance and repair programs.
Meet Santa Margarita Water District
Santa Margarita Water District is a dynamic, forward-thinking agency dedicated to delivering high-quality potable water, recycled water, and wastewater services to its 200,000 customers across Southern Orange County. As one of the region's largest and most impactful utilities, we are committed to the highest standards of transparency, innovation, and environmental stewardship.
Our people drive our progress, innovation, and results. Our collaborative, human-first culture fosters the sense of fun, comradery, and a rewarding sense of purpose as we do work that matters.
Dynamic teams of intelligent individuals work collaboratively to achieve SMWD's goals and solve challenges with a common aim that fosters a unique bond that is not often found in governmental agencies.
Santa Margarita Water District's values include:
- Exemplary service excellence
- Intelligent innovation that is forward-thinking and adaptive
- Ethical fiscal responsibility and transparency
- Environmental and resource stewardship
- Employee development and leadership training
- Building relationships that strengthen communities
Essential Functions
What You Will Do
- Lead and participate in the installation, maintenance, and repair of mechanical systems including pumps, motors, valves, and treatment equipment
- Assign, schedule, and monitor crew work to ensure quality, safety, and timely completion
- Diagnose equipment issues and perform advanced troubleshooting and repairs on mechanical and electrical systems
- Plan and lay out jobs; estimate labor, materials, and equipment needs; and coordinate required resources
- Perform preventative maintenance and ensure proper operation of facilities and equipment
- Train and mentor crew members on safe work practices, equipment use, and maintenance procedures
- Maintain detailed records, work orders, and documentation related to maintenance activities
- Operate and oversee the use of vehicles, tools, and heavy equipment in field operations
- Coordinate with other departments, contractors, and vendors to support maintenance and repair activities
- Respond to emergency situations and participate in standby and after-hours assignments as needed
What You Bring
- Extensive experience in mechanical maintenance and repair of pumps, motors, valves, and related equipment
- Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills for complex mechanical and electrical systems
- Proven ability to lead crews, assign work, and ensure adherence to safety and operational standards
- Knowledge of preventative maintenance programs and asset management practices
- Ability to read and interpret plans, schematics, and technical documents
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across teams
Requisite Abilities/Qualifications & Guidelines
Education, Experience & Certifications
High school diploma or GED and significant journey-level experience in mechanical maintenance of water, wastewater, or similar industrial systems, including lead or supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Relevant operator or technical certifications are preferred. A valid California driver's license and required safety certifications must be maintained.
Other Necessary Requirements/Additional Information
To view full job description click here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/smwdca/classspecs/920218?keywords=crew%20chief&pagetype=classSpecifications
To apply, please visit https://apptrkr.com/7031479
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