Director, Field Operations

Position Overview

Director of Field Operations – California Water Service Group. The Director manages district field operations across Southern California, aiming to reduce costs, improve customer service, and ensure efficient resource use.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze, audit, and evaluate operational practices and procedures; recommend improvements to increase efficiency, mitigate risk, and reduce costs.
• Evaluate industry trends and new technology; implement programs and projects that support operational objectives.
• Collaborate with IT and Engineering to assess workflow systems and tracking mechanisms; develop and implement key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Oversee and manage a region of Local and District Managers, including prioritizing work, conducting performance reviews, approving timecards, expense reports, and requisitions.
• Administer and negotiate all master construction contracts.
• Ensure compliance with all safety and security programs; collaborate with the Safety Department to provide training and equipment.
• Assess, develop, and recommend water certification programs to address skill gaps and promote employee development.
• Develop and mentor operations personnel in collaboration with Human Resources and other departments; support Management Trainee and Exchange programs.
• Maintain relationships with City, County, and water agencies.
• Participate in and support the company’s Continuous Improvement program and projects.
• Perform on‑site work at the assigned office location; execute other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or related field (preferred); equivalent experience considered.
• Five years of increasingly responsible experience in a District Manager, General Manager, Local Manager, or Operations Manager role.
• Ten years of progressively challenging experience in a utility operations role.
• State Water Resources Control Board – Drinking Water Operator Certification (Water Distribution Operator Grade IV) required.
• Must obtain Water Distribution Operator Grade V certification within 12 months.
• Water Treatment Operator Grade II certification required; Grade III desired.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Valid California driver’s license.
• Availability to respond to emergencies 24/7 throughout the year.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Supervisory principles, practices, and techniques.
• Use of Microsoft Office to create presentations, spreadsheets, and documents.
• Implementation of safety and security processes and programs.
• Review and administration of company master contracts.
• Understanding of water industry, including production and distribution.
• Capital and expense budgeting.
• Company policies, procedures, and business practices.
• Record keeping and documentation.
• Effective communication with agencies, contractors, consultants, customers, employees, and vendors.
• Leadership, management, and motivation of employees.
• Organizational and time‑management skills.
• Commitment to outstanding customer service.
• Detail orientation and process improvement expertise.
• Problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Flexibility and ability to prioritize work.

Benefits & Compensation

• Salary range varies by location: Bakersfield, Westlake – $158,100 – $293,500 (DOE); Torrance & East Los Angeles – $166,400 – $309,000 (DOE).
• Full benefits package (details provided upon request).

Equal Opportunity Statement

California Water Service Group is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or any other protected class. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.