AWP Operator, Lead September 16, 2026 / by Melissa Kussman Water Treatment Operator 12001 N. Fanita Pkwy, Santee

CA 92071

Posted 1 day ago

Closes:

October 4, 2026 Website Padre Dam Municipal Water District Are you someone who values teamwork, is motivated by continuous learning, and is looking for a position that offers career development and professional growth? Padre Dam and the East County Advanced Water Purification Program is seeking a Certified Operator to fill a critical, lead role at our state-of-the-art Advanced Water Purification Facility. We are seeking candidates that currently hold a SWRCB Wastewater Treatment Plant Grade 3 certificate (or higher) for an AWP Operator - Lead position. Employees in this position play a vital role in protecting our water resources while working in a collaborative, safety driven environment. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated, certified wastewater professional who is comfortable with hands on plant operations, SCADA monitoring, sampling, and process control in a 24/7 facility. Be part of the future of water sustainability by working with our state-of-the-art, four-step advanced purification technology that transforms recycled water into quality drinking water source. As an AWP Operator (Lead), you will directly impact the community by helping generate 30% of East County's water supply, thus reducing reliance on imported water through true environmental innovation. If you are passionate about water quality and ready to make an impact every day, APPLY TODAY! To learn more about the

East County Advanced Water Purification Program, Click Here:

https://eastcountyawp.com/ Initial Application Review will occur during the Week of September 28th. The selected candidate is eligible for appointment within the following

Salary Grade:

Salary Grade 27L - $47.88 - 67.78

Essential Duties:

AWP Operators are responsible for training on, commissioning, monitoring, maintaining, and operating a 16 MGD Class 5 Water Recycling Facility (WRF), associated Solids Handling Facility (SHF), Energy Recovery Facilities, a 12.5 MGD AWP Facility, appurtenant wastewater pump stations and conveyance facilities, product water pump station and conveyance facilities, and remote dechlorination facility; ensuring customers receive adequate recycled and purified water without health risks; and any other duties as assigned. As an AWP Operator - Lead, an employee is responsible for making day-to-day process adjustments to maintain operational parameters set forth by the AWP Operations Manager or AWP Operations Supervisor. Additionally, this position is expected to direct the work of AWP Operator employees within their assigned workgroup, maintain mandatory shift operations logs, and assume full responsibility for facility compliance in the absence of the AWP Operations Manager and AWP Operations Supervisor, including but not limited to monitoring operations, addressing regulatory issues, and maintaining required documentation. To view the complete job classification description for this position, click here: https://padredam.org/DocumentCenter/View/6466/AWP-Operator—AWP?bidId=

Knowledge, Skills, Training, Experience & Licensing:

Training/Experience Required:

(position requirements at entry) High School Diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (G.E.D.); AND Three years of related basic repair and maintenance experience; OR An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed in the job description.

Licensing Requirements:

(AWP Operator - Lead position requirements at entry; must be obtained and/or maintained throughout employment) Valid California Driver's License; AND Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Grade 3 certificate or higher from the State of California;

AND CWEA/AWWA

Advanced Water Treatment Operator (AWTO) Grade 3 certificate within 12-months of hire date.

NOTE:

Salary Grade 27L is an assigned lead position and requires an employee to hold dual certification (WW 3 and AWTO 3) To apply for this job please visit www.governmentjobs.com . Share this entry Share on Facebook Share on X Share on WhatsApp Share on Pinterest Share on LinkedIn Share on Tumblr Share on Vk Share on Reddit Share by Mail https://www.sandiegowaterworks.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SDWaterWorks_Logo-rev-600x212.jpg 0 0 Melissa Kussman https://www.sandiegowaterworks.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/SDWaterWorks_Logo-rev-600x212.jpg Melissa Kussman 2026-09-16 13:58:46 2026-09-16 13:58:46 AWP Operator, Lead Stay Informed with Water News Network Dive into the latest stories and updates about all things water from around the region and across the country. From environmental challenges to innovative solutions, our network provides in -depth coverage, expert insights, and essential information about the water topics that matter most. Explore Water News Network