Director of Operations

About the Organization Joshua Basin Water District is a locally formed government agency. The District is regulated by the State Water Code and governed by publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. District operations that include field, office, engineering, and managerial staff are managed by a General Manager who is appointed by the Board of Directors. Currently, we are the only "local government" for Joshua Tree, but our sphere of influence is confined to WATER-and ONLY WATER. Position: Director of Operations Open Date: 12/18/2024 Employment Type: Full-Time SUMMARY Under administrative direction, this position oversees, directs, organizes, and supervises all aspects of the District’s Operations Department, including water transmission and distribution, production, maintenance, field services, and capital improvement. The incumbent oversees the management, development, and administration of key programs such as Water Quality, Water Production, Water Storage and Recharge, Water Distribution, Safety, GIS, Engineering, and Regulatory Compliance. The incumbent provides high-level, complex support to the General Manager, works closely with internal departments, and coordinates with outside agencies. This position is designated as the Chief Plant Operator (CPO) for the District. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This position requires a high level of professional, operational, technical, and administrative expertise, along with significant accountability to the General Manager, Board of Directors, and the District’s customers. The individual in this role must be capable of performing a wide range of complex and varied tasks, demonstrating strong interpersonal, leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. The ability to work independently with minimal supervision, as well as to prioritize, lead, and manage effectively, is essential. As a member of the District’s executive management team, this employee is expected to actively engage in addressing District-wide issues, including those that may extend beyond their direct area of responsibility. SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED This position operates under the general direction of the General Manager and is responsible for supervising, leading, and providing training to assigned staff. It is expected to manage difficult and complex assignments independently, with minimal oversight. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Experience Minimum of 10 years progressive experience in the operation and maintenance of water distribution and supply systems. Minimum of 7 years supervision or management experience overseeing the operations, planning, design, construction, and maintenance of water treatment and distribution facilities. Minimum 3 years of project management experience on infrastructure and/or engineering projects. Experience working with a special district, public works, and Board of Directors. Education and/or Training A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined in this job description is possession of a completed four-year degree from an accredited college or university with a major in public administration, business, civil engineering, water science, or a closely related field. Certificates, Licenses, Registration (Required) Grade IV or higher SWRCB Water Distribution Operator Certificate. Grade V highly desired. Grade III or higher SWRCB Water Treatment Operator Certificate. AWWA Cross Connection Control Certificate highly desired. Project Management certification and/or experience highly desired. Other Requirements Must possess and maintain a valid California Class C Driver’s License. EOE Statement We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. This position is currently accepting applications. #J-18808-Ljbffr