Director, Field Operations (Bakersfield)

California Water ServiceJob Description:California Water Service Group invites you to build a meaningful career with the third‑largest publicly traded water utility. Guided by our mission to be the leading provider of water and wastewater services, we are dedicated to improving quality of life for the customers, communities, and employees we serve. Our culture is grounded in core values—integrity, service, value, health and safety, respect and collaboration, and corporate citizenship—and reflected in our recognition as a Top Workplace, a Great Place to Work, and a J.D. Power leader in customer satisfaction for multiple years. Join Cal Water and be part of a purpose‑driven organization where your work makes a lasting impact.The Director of Field Operations manages district field operations throughout Southern California; which includes providing input to district operations to help reduce costs, review, and manage the master construction contracts, improve customer service and ensuring efficient and effective use of resources; analyzes, audits, and evaluates operational practices and procedures; recommends improvements to existing methods to increase efficiency, mitigate risk, and manage costs; and provides guidance on water distribution and production issues. The location of this position will be in Southern California within 30 minutes of a district office.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS​:Analyzes, audits, and evaluates operational practices and procedures; recommends improvements to existing methods which increase efficiency, mitigate risk, and reduce costEvaluates industry trends and new technology; implements programs and projects within the districts which support operational objectivesCollaborates with IT and Engineering to analyze and assess workflow systems and tracking mechanisms; develops and implements new key performance indicators (KPI’s) as neededOversees and manages a Region of Local and District Managers, including prioritizing and assigning work, conducting performance reviews, overseeing the development of staff, approving timecards, expense reports, and requisitions (within the limits of authority)Manages, administers, and negotiates all master construction contractsEnsures compliance with all safety and security programs within the districts; collaborates with the Safety Department to ensure all employees receive appropriate training and equipmentAssesses, develops, and recommends water certification programs and courses which address skill or certification gaps and promote employee development; oversees the in house water technology training and certification programDevelops and mentors all operations personnel by collaborating with Human Resources and other departments; supports various training programs including the Management Trainee and Exchange programsEnsures Local and District Managers are building, developing and maintaining relationships with City, County, and water agenciesParticipates in and supports the Company’s Continuous Improvement program and projectsPerforms work on-site in assigned office locationPerforms other similar duties as assignedMINIMUM QUALIFICATIONSBachelor’s degree in Business Administration or related field is preferred, but will consider all equivalent and relevant experienceFive years of increasingly responsible experience in a District Manager, General Manager, Local Manager or Operations Manager role or equivalent experienceTen years of progressively challenging experience working in a utility operations role or equivalentState Water Resources Control Board-Drinking Water–Operator Certification Programs Water Distribution Operator Grade IV Certification is requiredWill need to obtain State Water Resources Control Board-Drinking Water–Operator Certification Programs Water Distribution Operator Grade V in 12 monthsState Water Resources Control Board-Drinking Water–Operator Certification Programs Water Treatment Operator Grade II Certification requiredState Water Resources Control Board-Drinking Water–Operator Certification Programs Water Treatment Operator Grade III Certification desiredExcellent written and verbal communication skillsProficient in the use of Microsoft Office applicationsMust be available to respond and support a large variety of emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a yearValid California Driver LicenseREQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIESKnowledge of supervisory principles, practices, and techniquesKnowledge and ability to use Microsoft Office applications to create presentations, spreadsheets, and Word documentsKnowledge and ability to implement all safety and security processes and programs within the DistrictKnowledge of company master contracts and ability to review and administerKnowledge of the water industry including water systems production and distributionKnowledge of capital and expense budgetingKnowledge of Company policies, procedures, and business practicesAbility to establish and maintain accurate recordsAbility to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with agencies, contractors, consultants, customers, employees, and vendorsAbility to work effectively with all levels of employees and managementAbility to interpret and apply business and governmental laws and regulationsDemonstrated ability to lead, manage, and motivate employeesDemonstrated organizational and time management skillsDemonstrated commitment to providing outstanding customer serviceDetail-oriented and experienced in analyzing and improving processesGood problem-solving and troubleshooting skillsFlexible and able to prioritize workSalary Range: Bakersfield, Westlake $158,100 - $293,500 (DOE)Torrance & East Los Angeles $166,400 - $309,00 (DOE)Deadline to submit resume is Friday, July 24, 2026.The Equal Opportunity Policy of the Company is based upon the philosophy that all people should be treated fairly and with dignity. California Water Service, Hawaii Water Service, New Mexico Water Service and Washington Water Service do not discriminate against any applicant or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected class. The Company makes all employment decisions in a non-discriminatory manner. EOE, VET, DISABILITIES.SummaryLocation: Bakersfield, CA; Commerce, CA; Torrance, CA; Westlake Village, CAType: Full time