Utility Worker I​/II

About the Position

The Santa Fe Irrigation District (SFID) is seeking motivated and dependable individuals to join our team as Utility Workers, at either the Utility Worker I or Utility Worker II level, depending on experience and qualifications.

This is a great opportunity to work in a dynamic and supportive environment, helping to maintain and improve critical water infrastructure in our service area. The ideal candidates will have hands‑on construction experience or experience working on a water distribution system, especially one similar to SFID’s. Whether you are starting your career in water utilities or bringing valuable field experience, we invite you to apply and grow with us.

The Utility Workers I/II perform a wide range of field duties supporting the construction, maintenance, and repair of the District’s potable water distribution system. Responsibilities include working with water mains, service lines, meters, and pressure systems; operating equipment; responding to customer concerns; and performing emergency and standby duties. The role requires physical labor in outdoor, all-weather conditions with exposure to noise, confined spaces, and hazardous materials.

Qualified candidates should have construction or water utility experience, strong safety awareness, and the ability to work collaboratively and respond to emergencies. Certification requirements vary by level (D1 within one year of employment for Utility Worker I; D2 for Utility Worker II).

The Santa Fe Irrigation District (SFID) is a public water agency located in northern San Diego County, California. Established in 1923, the District provides water services to the communities of Rancho Santa Fe, Fairbanks Ranch, and the City of Solana Beach. SFID manages local water resources, including surface water from Lake Hodges, imported water from the San Diego County Water Authority, and recycled water.

The District is focused on sustainable water management, infrastructure maintenance, and ensuring a reliable water supply for residential, agricultural, and commercial customers.

SFID values teamwork, inclusiveness, continuous improvement, transparency, accountability, and sustainability. These principles guide the District’s commitment to respectful collaboration, pursuing excellence, open communication, and responsible and high‑quality service.

• Health:
  Medical – District pays 98%, Dental – District pays 100% and Vision – available at low cost to employee
• Retirement/Pension:
  Participation in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS)
• Paid Leave:
  Accrual starting just above 22 days per year for vacation, personal and sick leaves; increases to 26 days after completion of 5 years of service
• Holidays:
  Ten paid holidays per year, including 1 floating holiday
• Deferred Compensation:
  Up to $4,000 matching on 457 plan for employee retention ($1,500 for 3‑5 years service, $3,000 for 6‑10, $4,000 for 11+)
• Education Reimbursement:
  Up to $4,000 annually for qualifying coursework after six months’ probationary period

Utility Worker I: $32.78 – $42.61/hour
Utility Worker II: $37.95 – $49.33/hour
Annual Merit Increase:
Up to 3% each year of employment anniversary based on job performance
Cost‑of‑living Adjustment:
For all employees guaranteed July 2027 equal to CPI for San Diego (in addition to merit increase)

The Utility Worker I/II position is a non‑exempt, entry‑to‑journey‑level class. For advancement to the Utility Worker II, certain proficiency criteria must be met. Typically, proficiency is met within a 24‑to‑36‑month period.