Principal Control Systems Administrator

Inland Empire Utilities Agency

$156K — $190K *
Chino, CA 91710In-Person
Energy & Utilities
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, IT, mathematics, engineering, or a related field.
  • 7 years of advanced experience in process automation and control systems administration, including 2 years in a supervisory role.
  • Valid California Class C driver’s license with insurability under agency insurance.
  • Desired certifications: ISA Certified Control Systems Professional, ISA Certified Control Systems Technician, CWEA Electrical and Instrumentation Technologist Grade 3.
  • Strong background in project management and technical authority in automation systems.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the Operational Technology team managing DCS and SCADA systems for water operations.
  • Oversee project development and optimize automation systems for reliability and efficiency.
  • Mentor and guide staff to enhance team performance and collaboration.
  • Manage budgets and track performance metrics for system improvements.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies for strategic implementation within the organization.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Participation in the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS).
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options for healthcare and dependent care.
  • Agency-paid long-term disability insurance coverage.
  • Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal support.
Full Job Description
Salary : $156,717.34 - $190,943.22 Annually
Location : Chino CA 91708, CA
Job Type: Full-Time Regular
Job Number:
Division\Department: Information Technology Department
Unit\Section: Operational Technology Unit
Opening Date: 04/23/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

THE POSITION:
THE OPPORTUNITY

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency (IEUA) is seeking a strategic and technically skilled Principal Control Systems Administrator to lead its Operational Technology programs and oversee critical process automation and control systems. Reporting to the Manager of Information Technology, this role leads a team responsible for the Agency's Distributed Control Systems (DCS), SCADA platforms, and supporting networks that power essential water, wastewater, and recycled water operations. You'll direct the development, integration, and ongoing optimization of complex automation systems, serve as a key technical authority, and manage projects that enhance system performance, reliability, and security.

As a leader within the Operational Technology team, you'll mentor staff, drive performance, and foster a collaborative, high-performing environment grounded in accountability and continuous improvement. You'll also play a key role in budgeting, tracking performance metrics, evaluating emerging technologies, and partnering with internal teams, vendors, and regulatory agencies. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of the Agency's automation infrastructure while advancing innovative, resilient solutions that support IEUA's mission.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:
An equivalent combination of training and experience to the following:
  • Graduation from a college or university with a major in computer science, information technology, mathematics, engineering or a closely related field.
  • Seven years of progressively responsible experience in the design, implementation and administration of process automation and control systems, and related information and communications technologies, including two years of supervisory responsibilities.

LICENSES; CERTIFICATES; SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • A valid California Class C driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Agency's vehicle insurance program.
  • Certification from the International Society of Automation (ISA) as a Certified Control Systems Professional is desired.
  • Certification from the International Society of Automation (ISA) as a Certified Control Systems Technician is desired.
  • Certification from the California Water Environment Association (CWEA) as an Electrical and Instrumentation Technologist Grade 3 Certification is desired.

Skills and Abilities
  • Skilled in planning and delivering complex process automation and control system initiatives, including defining scope, schedules, and budgets; overseeing system design, integration, and testing; and tracking performance metrics to support continuous improvement.
  • Ability to collaborate with internal teams, consultants, vendors, and regulatory agencies to ensure effective system integration, resolve issues proactively, and maintain alignment with Agency standards and cybersecurity practices.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate system performance, identify risks or inefficiencies, and implement practical, cost-effective solutions that enhance reliability, security, and operational efficiency.
  • Experienced in leading cross-functional teams, setting clear expectations, monitoring progress, maintaining system documentation, and using performance data to drive continuous improvement and future enhancements.

To view the full job description, please click
SELECTION PROCESS:
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted on a continuous basis. The deadline for first review is Thursday, May 7, at 11:59 PM. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as this recruitment may close at anytime after the fire review period.

There is one (1) vacancy in the Information Technology Department.

This recruitment is being conducted to fill one (1) vacancy and will establish an eligibility list which may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur during the active status of the eligibility list.


Salary Range: UN 187

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Probationary Period: At-Will

All employment applications will be reviewed for accuracy, completion, relevant experience, education, training and other job-related qualifications. Applicants with the strongest background relating to the responsibilities of this position will be invited to participate in the testing process which may include one or more of the following: written test, oral interview, performance/practical examination. A second round of interviews may also be conducted. Communications regarding this recruitment will be sent by email, and candidates will need to monitor their inbox/spam/junk email folder regularly to ensure they do not miss any relevant communication.

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency does not sponsor employment visas at the time of hire or during the course of employment. All applicants and employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout the duration of employment.
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE.
The Agency offers a comprehensive benefit package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a variety of voluntary benefits. Programs and benefit amounts vary and are based on bargaining unit and employment type. This benefits overview is a summary and is not to be considered all-inclusive or applicable to all employees.

Retirement
California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS):
An employee who becomes a "new" member of CalPERS for the first time on or after January 1, 2013 (and who was not a member of another California public retirement system prior to that date) will be enrolled in the CalPERS 2.0% @ 62 benefit formula with a three-year final compensation in accordance with Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA). New members (PEPRA) will be required to pay half of the normal cost (Govt. Code Section. 7522.30(c)) currently 6.75% of eligible earnings toward the employee contribution.

An employee who is a "classic" member of CalPERS, or a current member of another California public retirement system, who is hired on or after January 1, 2012, will be enrolled in the CalPERS 2.0% @ 55 benefit formula with a three-year final compensation. Classic members shall contribute 7% of eligible earnings toward the employee contribution.

Social Security/Medicare:
Along with CalPERS retirement, the Agency also participates in Social Security and Medicare. The Agency pays 7.65% on your behalf (6.2% Social Security + 1.45% Medicare), and the employee pays 7.65% via payroll taxes.

Medical
The Agency shall make a maximum monthly contribution towards the cost of his/her health insurance as follows:
Agency Medical Contribution
Health insurance is offered through CalPERS, and enrollment is optional with evidence of health coverage from another source. Eligible employees who waive their medical benefit receive a cash incentive payment. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following enrollment.

Dental and Vision Insurance
The Agency offers two dental plans - Delta Dental (PPO) and Western Dental (DPO). Enrollment in one of the plans is mandatory. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following enrollment.

Vision insurance is offered through EyeMed Vision Plan and enrollment is voluntary. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following enrollment.

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) Plan
Effective on the first date of the month following date of hire, you are eligible to participate in the Agency's Section 125 Cafeteria Program. Participants in this program may take advantage of tax savings offered through a medical care flexible spending account, a dependent care flexible spending account, or purchase supplemental benefits including critical illness and accident insurance with pre-tax dollars. In addition, employees can purchase supplemental life insurance with post-tax dollars.

Term Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
Life and AD&D insurance is offered through Lincoln Financial Group. Executive Management employees are provided with 1 time their annual earnings up to $300,000. Unrepresented Management employees are provided with an Agency paid $90,000 Life and AD&D policy. Unrepresented non-management, and members of the Supervisors', Laboratory, Professional, General, or Operators' Unit are provided an Agency paid $50,000 Life and AD&D policy. Enrollment into a basic $10,000 Life and AD&D policy is required and paid by the employee. Employees may purchase dependent life, for their spouse and/or eligible child(ren), or additional Life and AD&D coverage for themselves up to $500,000. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following date of hire.

Disability Insurance
Employees are insured by an Agency-paid long-term disability insurance, which will provide income for an employee who is totally disabled from illness, injury, or accident. The basic benefit provides for 60% of the first $10,000 of monthly salary, reduced by deductible income, after a 365-day waiting period. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Short-term disability insurance is available through State Disability Insurance (SDI). Employees covered by SDI are covered by two programs: Disability Insurance and Paid Family Leave. Per applicable MOU and/or Personnel Manual, cash-out option available.

Employee Assistance Program
Agency employees are provided access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) which provides 24/7 assistance needed to help resolve life's challenges.

401(a) & 457(b) Deferred Compensation
Participation in a 457 deferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. The Agency will contribute $35.00 per pay period to a single 457(b) account for each employee who has made an elective deferral of thirty-five ($35) or more to the plan. Also, participation in a 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan is available within 60 days of hire.

PAID TIME OFF
Holidays

The Agency offers twelve (12) paid holidays. Additional paid floating holidays are available every fiscal year as follows:
Senior Management:6 Floating Holidays per FY & 8 Senior Management Leave days
Unrepresented Management:10 Floating Holidays per FY
Unrepresented Non-Management:6 Floating Holidays per FY
Supervisors' Unit:8 Floating Holidays per FY

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