Operations and Maintenance Technician

Operations & Maintenance Technician IV – Mechanical (Desert)

Location: Desert Center, CA (Multiple Desert Sites)
Salary: $46.52 – $61.30 / hour
Schedule: 4 × 10 (8 Days On / 6 Days Off)
Department: Conveyance & Distribution – Desert Pump Operations
Job Type: Full-Time

About the Role

Join the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California as an Operations & Maintenance Technician IV – Mechanical (Desert) where you'll help keep essential water and power infrastructure operating safely and reliably. You'll use your mechanical expertise to support, maintain, and troubleshoot large-scale mechanical systems at remote desert facilities. This is a hands-on, field-based role focused on mechanical systems that help deliver water to millions across Southern California.

What You'll Do

• Maintain and repair mechanical systems that support water and power operations.
• Work with large industrial equipment such as pumps, motors, generators, compressors, valves, and related systems.
• Perform preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and corrective repairs.
• Monitor, inspect, test, and document equipment performance.
• Participate in training including high-voltage switching operations.
• Collaborate closely with team members in a safety-first environment.

Who We're Looking For

We want someone who:

• Has journey-level mechanical skills and experience with complex systems such as pumps, motors, generators, compressors, and related equipment.
• Enjoys problem solving and working hands-on in the field.
• Takes pride in maintaining equipment performance and safety.
• Communicates clearly and works well with others.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent, plus:
• At least 6 years of mechanical maintenance experience in a pump plant, treatment plant, hydroelectric or similar facility; OR
• Mechanical journey-level skills from a recognized trade training program.
• Valid California Class C Driver's License or equivalent at time of hire.
• May require additional certifications (e.g., Class A/B license, crane, forklift, manlift, welding, water treatment, chemical responder) based on job needs.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay
• Excellent medical, dental, vision, life, and retirement benefits
• 401(k) with matching options and CALPERS retirement benefits
• Tuition reimbursement and training opportunities
• Potential to rent Metropolitan Water District housing
• Additional Desert assignment premium pay (varies by location)

Work Environment & Expectations

• Work may include off-shift hours, emergency responses, and extended duty periods as needed.
• This position supports reliable water delivery and infrastructure operations critical to the region.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $ $61.30 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person