Description
The Position
The Santa Margarita Water District operates a complex utility system on behalf of its customers and regional partners. The District is responsible for the treatment and conveyance of potable water and recycled water, wastewater collection and treatment, and the operation of a large, regional water transmission pipeline—an uncommon combination that distinguishes SMWD from many other water agencies. This broad operational footprint, combined with significant infrastructure, regulatory oversight, and service expectations, makes SMWD’s Operations function challenging, exciting, and rewarding for a high-impact leader.
Within this context, the Director of Operations oversees the District’s largest and most multifaceted department, which includes three core areas of responsibility: Collections & Distributions, Water & Wastewater Treatment, and Equipment Maintenance. Reporting to the General Manager’s Office, this position provides leadership for approximately 100 employees; develops, manages, and monitors an annual operating budget of nearly $100 million; and works directly with Engineering to help strategize and develop the capital improvement program to ensure operational needs and long-term infrastructure priorities are fully integrated into project scope, scheduling, and resource allocation.
The Director provides strategic leadership for all operational functions, including the operation and maintenance of water treatment plants, potable and recycled water distribution systems, wastewater collection and treatment facilities, fleet and equipment maintenance, and emergency response activities. The role ensures safe, reliable, and efficient operations while meeting rigorous regulatory requirements, environmental standards, and performance expectations.
As a key member of the General Manager’s leadership team, the Director plays a pivotal role in shaping organizational strategy, advancing major initiatives, and strengthening cross-department collaboration. The position provides expert guidance to senior leadership, managers, staff, and the Board of Directors on complex operational, regulatory, and infrastructure matters, and represents the District with regulatory agencies, industry partners, community organizations, and other public entities.
This is a highly visible leadership opportunity for an accomplished operational strategist who has led large, complex utility systems and is motivated by delivering essential water, wastewater, and recycled water services at scale.
Compensation
The expected hiring range is $211,159 – $291,084 (pending final Board approval). The starting salary will be negotiated based on the candidate’s experience and qualifications. The salary will be supported by an attractive benefits package including CalPERS Retirement, Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Paid Time Off, Holidays, Social Security, and other benefits.
How to Apply
Become part of an innovative organization shaping the future of water through teamwork, creativity, and a strong commitment to community and environmental stewardship. Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at raftelis.com. Candidates will complete a brief online form and upload a cover letter and resume. For full consideration, please submit your application by Friday, February 13, 2026.
Requirements
Qualifications
The District seeks candidates who can demonstrate both breadth and depth of professional experience, which may be evidenced through a combination of relevant education and progressively responsible leadership in complex water or wastewater operations. A typical way is graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in business or public administration, life sciences, engineering, or a closely related field, and at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience managing the operations or maintenance functions in a wastewater or water treatment agency, at least five of which were at a manager level. Requisite certifications or a professional engineering license are required.
