General Description

Irvine Ranch Water District is currently accepting applications for an Operator III (Recycling Operations) in the Michelson Water Recycling Plant (MWRP) Operations Department.

Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received or until filled. The deadline for the first review of applications is 8:00 AM on August 27, 2026. Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit applications early. Candidates who submit applications after the first review deadline are not guaranteed to be considered for this recruitment. This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review deadline.

The District

Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency, with an international reputation for its leading-edge financial management practices, water recycling program, water use efficiency practices, water banking, urban runoff treatment, and energy generation and storage. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code, IRWD is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at the District's website: www.IRWD.com.

IRWD Values

Irvine Ranch Water District believes that its values drive the character, culture, and capacity of our organization. IRWD was built on values, and we weave them into the fabric of everything we do. Values are the ingredients in our recipe for both institutional and individual success. They are a code of conduct to promote positive outcomes for others and ourselves. They are more than words on a wall or a website. We live by them every day. We pledge to keep them relevant in an ever-changing world.

IRWD's employees enjoy working in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where they form strong bonds with fellow employees. To ensure effective communication and promote a collaborative team environment, employees report to work each day in the office or in the field, depending on their positions.

The Position

Under general supervision, performs complex work activities related to the operation of sewage treatment and recycling processes and equipment. Monitors treatment process operation and performance. Makes adjustments to treatment processes and equipment. Performs established treatment and quality control activities in order to consistently meet effluent discharge requirements, standards and regulations in a cost-effective manner.

Incumbents may be required to work standby on a rotational basis and report to work on a callback basis as needed. Standby assignment is at the discretion of the Operations Manager.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives general supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff. May exercise guidance and leads lower-level staff.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Operators with a Grade III or higher Wastewater Operator Certificate from the California State Water Resources Control Board are the advanced journey levels in the classification series. Incumbents perform the full range of skilled plant operations and maintenance tasks with a significant degree of independence and at any time may oversee the work of lower-grade Operators. Assignments are varied and require sound judgment and initiative. Incumbents are required to accept standby duty, make process adjustments from a laptop computer or provided electronic device, and/or respond to process problems and equipment malfunctions.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

Under minimal supervision, oversees and participates in the work activities of staff responsible for performing operational duties related to the operation of sewage and recycling processes and equipment.

In the absence of the Operations Supervisor, responsible for leading the lower-level operations staff, and assisting with preparing work schedules, reports, and administrative responsibility for the work order system.

Operates and monitors the operation of sewage and recycling processes to produce a quality tertiary effluent and consistently meets recycled water distribution requirements that comply with all applicable local, state, and federal environmental permit requirements, including biosolids regulations.

Performs all assigned operational duties required to operate the plant efficiently and for responding to emergencies and changing conditions within the plant, including: daily plant process and equipment inspections; reviewing of process performance; processes efficiency testing; processes control calculations and spreadsheets; solids handling and disposal; maintaining a daily log of operations; ordering and receiving bulk chemical deliveries; dissolved oxygen profile testing; 30-minute settling Sludge Volume Index (SVI) testing, chlorine residual testing; Turbidity testing; H2S testing; ambient air monitoring, Micro-organism examination; and a variety of other test including calibration and maintenance of monitoring equipment. Including regulatory compliance data review.

Troubleshoots and/or makes operational recommendations to maintain and improve treatment efficiency. Records flow and hour meter readings from gauges, graphs, and related instrumentation and makes appropriate calculations as required.

Assists with the planning, implementation, and monitoring of operational duties. This includes reviewing the operations work schedule, operational duties, special projects, and coordinating with contractors.

Effectively communicates and interacts frequently with all departments and external parties; reports all facts essential to the efficient operation of the reclamation plant and operating problems or emergencies immediately to the Operations Supervisor or the Operations Manager

Assists with reviewing and updating Standard Operational Procedures (SOP), Energy Control Procedures (ECP), Job Safety Analysis (JSA), confined space inventory, and specialized operational safety procedures.

Assists in preparing reports summarizing treatment plant operational activities, including Process performance and efficiency, Equipment operation, Work performed, and materials used. Assists in preparing a weekly and monthly report detailing unit process efficiencies, flows, and cost of operation.

Assists with or leads in projects such as: tank dewatering, cleaning operations and preparation of mechanical equipment to facilitate repairs and replacement by the Mechanical Maintenance Department. Clean and consistently maintain assigned treatment plant facilities and equipment.

Leads and participates in performing housekeeping and maintaining the entire treatment facility.

Monitors collection system lift stations; inspects collection system lift stations regularly; services equipment and machinery in lift stations and reports the need for repairs.

Inspects the operation of sewage treatment plant including recycling pumps, motors, structures, tanks, and equipment and assist with scheduling and coordinating mechanical work activities with the Maintenance Department for timely and appropriate repair and/or replacement of treatment process mechanical and related equipment.

Utilizes a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to create work orders. Submits purchase requests for equipment, materials, and chemicals. Assists in inventory control, which includes reviewing shipments, monitoring spare parts, monitoring inventory, and storing inventory.

Respond to emergency situations during off-hours as required. Participate in the Emergency Standby Program at the sole discretion of the District. May be required to serve on the District Hazardous Materials Response Team and respond to emergency situations and/or chemical spills. Participates in process teams and committees as required. Conducts or assists with preparing plant tours. Participates in the development, counseling, and training of treatment plant operators.

May be required to work varying shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, on-call duty (Standby Program) and respond to callbacks and may be required to work alone on weekends and Holidays as needed for coverage. Incumbent may be required to work any of the District’s work schedules, including weekends and Holidays. Assigned work shifts may be changed from time to time at the discretion of the District.

Comply with safety work-related practices and attend relevant safety training.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Disaster Service Worker: In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, Irvine Ranch Water District employees, in the event of a disaster, are considered disaster service workers and may be asked to respond accordingly.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:

Education

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

High School graduation or equivalent required with additional college-level coursework in wastewater and/or water treatment.

Experience

Three (3) years of experience in the operation of a Grade V wastewater recycling facility, incorporating biological pond treatment, preliminary and primary treatment, Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) activated sludge treatment, tertiary treatment, membrane treatment, and solids handling facilities.

Certifications

Valid Class C California Driver's license is required.
Valid Grade III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board is required.
40 hour Emergency Response, Hazardous Materials Technician Certificate or ability to receive within 12 months from date of hire may be required.
Related Collections System Maintenance, Water Treatment, and/or Water Distribution certifications are highly desirable.

Knowledge Of

Safety policies and procedures, safe work practices, applicable to any assignment, OSHA regulations, LOTO and Confined Space procedures, hazardous materials handling procedures, and performing root cause analysis on incidents.
Performing maintenance on equipment used in a wastewater treatment facility.
Methods and techniques for operating pumps, valves and electric motors and engines.
SCADA control systems and process control, instrumentation, computer applications pertaining to our work industry.
Principles, methods, techniques, and practices in testing both chemical and biological analyses.
Permits (NPDES/AQMD), including local and state federal laws.
Methods and procedures in training others.

Ability To

Effectively communicate both orally and written.
Communicate effectively with all levels of office/field employees, management and vendors.
Represent the District in a professional manner when dealing with outside contractors and regulatory agency officials.
Advise and provide interpretation to others on how to apply policies, procedures and standards to specific situations.
Perform basic mathematical functions, including college level algebra and geometry.
Perform algebraic and geometry calculations and water/wastewater calculations and formulas.
Use good personal judgment and discretion in performing all job functions.
Use functional reasoning in performing influence functions such as mentoring, leading, teaching and training.
Ability to read and interpret standard operating procedures (SOP), blueprints, schematics, operational/maintenance manuals, and required facility permits.

Additional Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

When working in the field, must possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform medium to heavy physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; frequently reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, grasp, and make repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties; to climb and descend ladders; to operate various equipment and tools; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various District sites; and vision to locate utilities and read printed materials. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas and to working in confined spaces. Must be certified annually to wear respiratory equipment. Must be clean-shaven such that facial hair does not interfere with the fit of a tight-fitting respirator. Finger dexterity is needed to operate and repair tools and equipment. Employees must possess the ability to carry, push, pull, and lift materials and objects weighing 50 pounds and up to 90 pounds with the use of proper equipment. All of this in various weather conditions (hot, cold, rainy) and environments, often exposed to wet muddy conditions.

When working in an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Employees work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road/traffic hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, hazardous physical substances and fumes, dust, and air contaminants. Employees also work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances.

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS

All applicants are required to complete and submit a District application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the District online application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page.

New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide

Qualifications

Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department and the subject matter expert. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:

Oral Interview Examination (tentatively scheduled for September 10, 2026): will assess candidates’ experiences, qualifications, and abilities that are crucial for success in this role. During this examination, candidates will have the opportunity to discuss their background, including education, training, and relevant professional experiences. This in-person interview will allow evaluators to assess the candidate’s interpersonal communication skills and evaluate their overall qualification for the position.

Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Irvine Ranch Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department for a reasonable accommodation.

IRWD offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These benefits include the following: retirement benefits; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; and a variety of other benefits. Benefits may vary based on employment status. This benefits overview is intended to be a summary, is not intended to be all-inclusive, and may not be applicable to all employees.

Retirement

Employees Hired On Or After January 1, 2013

The District, in compliance with the California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2012 (PEPRA), implemented a third tier for new employees hired on or after January 1, 2013. New employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have not been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system within 6 months of hire date will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at a 2 percent at age 62 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefits of 2.5 percent at age 67. Final compensation calculations will be based on the highest three-year average of regular recurring pay. The District pays the employer's share of these costs. The employee share of the pension cost of 7.50% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula.

Employees hired on or after September 29, 2012 or "Classic" PERS members hired on or after January 1, 2013:

On September 24, 2012, the IRWD Board of Directors approved the addition of a second tier to the CalPERS retirement benefits. New employees hired on or after September 29th through December 31, 2012, and employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system, will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at 2 percent at age 60 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefit of 2.418% at age 63. The District pays the employer share of these costs and the employee share of the pension cost of 7% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula. Final retirement compensation calculations are based on the highest three-year average of regular, recurring pay.

IRWD does not participate or pay into Social Security except for the Medicare portion.

Medical Insurance

IRWD contracts with CalPERS for medical insurance coverage. Employees may elect coverage from a variety of PPO and HMO plans. The employee and District contribution for health insurance varies by plan. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Dental Insurance

IRWD contracts with Delta Dental for dental coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for dental coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Vision Insurance

IRWD contracts with the EyeMed for vision coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for vision coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Life Insurance

Eligible employees are provided with life insurance coverage equal to three or four times their annual salary, depending on their level of compensation. Eligible dependents are also covered for a flat benefit amount. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Deferred Compensation

Participation in a deferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. Enrollment is voluntary and contributions are employee-paid and subject to IRS limits. The District matches employee contributions up to 3% of base pay after 1 year of employment.

Paid Vacation

Eligible employees begin accruing vacation benefits at the rate of 80 hours per year for the first 5 years of employment. Employees accrue 120 hours per year after 5 years of employment and 160 hours per year after 10 years of employment.

Paid Holidays

The District offers 10 scheduled paid holidays plus two (2) personal holiday per year.

Sick Leave

Eligible employees accrue 96 hours of sick leave annually.

Flexible Spending Accounts

Eligible employees may elect to participate in the District's Flex Advantage program. This program allows employees to deposit pre-tax dollars into special accounts to be used for a variety of purposes, including paying for qualified miscellaneous health care expenses and dependent care expenses. IRWD contracts with a third party administer to process payments from employee accounts using claim forms or a Flex Spending debit card.

Educational Assistance

The District will share in the pre-approved educational costs of tuition and books for employees who wish to attend college or take certification classes.

01

What is your highest level of education that you have completed?

Did not graduate high school or received GED
Graduated high school or equivalent (GED)
Completed some college-level coursework or obtained Associate degree
Obtained Bachelor's degree
Obtained Graduate degree (Master's or PhD)

02

How many years of experience do you have working in the operation of wastewater treatment plant, incorporating biological pond treatment, preliminary and primary treatment, Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) activated sludge treatment, tertiary treatment and solids handling facility.

No experience
1 to less than 2 years of experience
2 to less than 3 years of experience
3 to less than 4 years of experience
4 to less than 5 years of experience
5+ years or more experience

03

Briefly describe your training or experience relevant to the Operator I/II/III position. If none, type N/A.

04

How many college units do you have relating to water/wastewater or environmental studies?

No units
1 to less than 15 units
15 to less than 30 units
30 units to less than 60 units
Associate's Degree or 60 units
More than 60 units

05

What is your highest level of Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certification issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board?

No certification
Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator
Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator
Grade III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator
Grade IV Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator
GradeV Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

06

Possession and retention of a valid California Class "C" driver's license is a requirement of this position. Do you currently possess a valid California Class "C" driver's license and understand this requirement?

Note for out-of-state applicants: Currently possessing the equivalent of a California Class "C" driver's license from another state would temporarily suffice this requirement and must obtain a Class "C" driver's license in the State of California prior to a job offer with the District.

Yes
No
Required Question

Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) jobs

Operator III (Recycling Operations)