GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Applications will be accepted on a continuous basis until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received or until filled.
The deadline for the first review of applications is 8:00 AM on October 22, 2025. Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit applications early. Candidates who submit applications after the first review deadline are not guaranteed to be considered for this recruitment.
This recruitment may close at any time without notice after the first review deadline.
The District
Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency, with an international reputation for its leading-edge financial management practices, water recycling program, water use efficiency practices, water banking, urban runoff treatment, and energy generation and storage. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code, IRWD is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at the District's website: www.IRWD.com.
IRWD Values
Irvine Ranch Water District believes that its values drive the character, culture, and capacity of our organization. IRWD was built on values, and we weave them into the fabric of everything we do. Values are the ingredients in our recipe for both institutional and individual success. They are a code of conduct to promote positive outcomes for others and ourselves. They are more than words on a wall or a website. We live by them every day. We pledge to keep them relevant in an ever-changing world.
IRWD's employees enjoy working in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where they form strong bonds with fellow employees. To ensure effective communication and promote a collaborative team environment, employees report to work each day in the office or in the field, depending on their positions.
The Position:
Provides planning and analytical support to ensure the Districts' financial and rate stability. Provides analytical support with an emphasis in financial modeling and guidance to other departments and provides recommendations to enhance efficiency and productivity. The position requires independent judgment and interpretation of policy, rules and regulations.
This position is 100% in-office, meaning employees are expected to work from our Sand Canyon Headquarters full-time, without the option for remote work.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Participates in the preparation of the annual operating budget. Prepares the calendar and presentation for kickoff meeting. Coordinates assists and monitors department budget input, including consolidating and providing analysis of results.
Assists in the process for generating rates and prepares presentations and written communication for rate recommendations to the necessary Committees and the Board of Directors.
Assists in the preparation of the Proposition 218 notices and builds the associated mailing list. Works with consultant to ensure notices are mailed on a timely basis. Coordinates with IT on updating rates in the utility billing system. Tests updated rates in the system and on the website.
Coordinates with the external auditors to track protest letters on Proposition 218 notices. Assists in writing responses to protest letters.
Coordinates the updates for the Rates and Charges schedule. Work with other departments as necessary. Prepare updated booklet and written communication for Board approval.
Assists in maintaining the Enterprise Model for setting connection fees and property taxes to fund new capital. Coordinate with other departments to update capital requirements and developers to update projections.
Analyzes model to ensure fair and equitable allocation of costs between improvement districts.
Prepares quarterly actual vs budget analysis for operating and non-operating income and by system. Prepare quarterly actual vs budget analysis for capital program expenditures. Prepare quarterly forecasts. Monitor and assist with departments over budget. Coordinate analysis and explanations. Prepare written communication for the Committee.
Develops financial reports and models to support other departments as requested. Coordinate with Information Systems and other departments. Recommend and implement changes to the Financial System as necessary. Provide testing support.
Contributes to establishing financial policies and maintain confidentiality of financial information.
Prepare and present PowerPoint and other presentations on various topics as necessary.
Builds and updates conceptual models for a business plan.
Assists with the development of District-wide strategic financial initiatives.
Provides analytical support to other departments as requested.
Provides information to be included in the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report.
Manages and participates in special projects as assigned.
Attends District Committee and Board meetings as required.
Complies with safety work-related practices and attends relevant safety training.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Disaster Service Worker: In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, Irvine Ranch Water District employees, in the event of a disaster, are considered disaster service workers and may be asked to respond accordingly.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Education:
Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in finance, business or related field. Master of Business Administration preferred.
Experience:
Three (3) years of experience in a finance analytical function with strong analytical experience with an emphasis in financial modeling, as well as the ability to develop and recommend comprehensive solutions.
Experience in building and updating conceptual models for a business plan is preferred. Proficiency with Oracle financial systems preferred.
Knowledge of:
- Windows environment with intermediate abilities in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
- Thorough understanding of budgeting and forecasting principles and interpreting financial data.
- Thorough understanding of accounting and financial auditing principles and best practices.
- Strong understanding of financial laws and regulations.
Ability to:
- Communicate effectively with and present to all levels of District staff, including senior management, as well as outside professionals and legal counsel.
- Represent the District in a professional manner when dealing with outside professionals. Ability to present complex financial data to internal and external teams.
- Use discretion and exercise independent judgment and interpretation of policy, rules and regulations. Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
- Add, subtract, multiply, and divide and calculate percentages, decimals and fractions.
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
A valid Class 'C' California Driver's License
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Regularly required to sit, walk, bend, stoop and stand. Occasionally required to lift up to 25 lbs. Must be able to sit for extended periods of time while performing tasks at a desk or workstation. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard, typewriter keyboard, or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. This may involve repetitive hand movements for extended periods. Ability to reach for documents, supplies, or equipment at varying heights (within a standard office environment) and grasp them, including the use of filing cabinets or shelves. This is primarily a sedentary office classification, although standing and walking between work areas may be required. Occasional standing is required, such as when presenting. Some bending or stooping may be necessary to retrieve files or materials from lower shelves or desks. Good vision is necessary for reading documents, working with computer screens, and performing tasks that require fine detail. Ability to hear in a standard office environment for communication, phone calls, and meetings. Frequent verbal communication with team members, clients, and other stakeholders, including both in-person and virtual meetings, requiring clear speech and hearing. Occasional travel may be required to other worksites or conferences for meetings, training, or other work-related activities. The job may require sustained concentration, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Ability to walk long distances over uneven terrain. The employee should be able to manage work-related stress in a fast-paced environment.
These physical demands may vary depending on the specific duties and expectations of the position.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Noise level is generally equivalent to a typical office environment. The office is maintained at a comfortable room temperature. The office is equipped with air conditioning and ventilation systems designed to maintain comfortable indoor air quality. The work area is equipped with adequate artificial lighting, supplemented by natural daylight from windows where available. The employee will work primarily at a desk, using a computer and other office equipment. The office complies with standard safety regulations, including the use of fire exits, first aid kits, and emergency procedures. Employees are expected to adhere to safety guidelines. The office environment is free from significant environmental hazards such as chemicals, heavy machinery, or extreme weather conditions. Occasional visits to construction sites where noise level may be higher than typical office environment. Ability to work in an environment which may expose employee to hazardous materials and environment.
IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS
All applicants are required to complete and submit a District application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the District online application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page.
New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide
Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department and the subject matter expert. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:
Performance Examination: will evaluate candidates' knowledge and proficiency in using Excel.
Oral Interview Examination: will evaluate the candidates' experience, training, education, and abilities in relation to those factors which are essential for successful performance on the job.
Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Irvine Ranch Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department for a reasonable accommodation.
IRWD offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These benefits include the following: retirement benefits; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; and a variety of other benefits. Benefits may vary based on employment status. This benefits overview is intended to be a summary, is not intended to be all-inclusive, and may not be applicable to all employees.
Retirement
Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013:
The District, in compliance with the California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2012 (PEPRA), implemented a third tier for new employees hired on or after January 1, 2013. New employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have not been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system within 6 months of hire date will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at a 2 percent at age 62 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefits of 2.5 percent at age 67. Final compensation calculations will be based on the highest three-year average of regular recurring pay. The District pays the employer's share of these costs. The employee share of the pension cost of 7.50% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula.
Employees hired on or after September 29, 2012 or "Classic" PERS members hired on or after January 1, 2013:
On September 24, 2012, the IRWD Board of Directors approved the addition of a second tier to the CalPERS retirement benefits. New employees hired on or after September 29th through December 31, 2012, and employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system, will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at 2 percent at age 60 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefit of 2.418% at age 63. The District pays the employer share of these costs and the employee share of the pension cost of 7% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula. Final retirement compensation calculations are based on the highest three-year average of regular, recurring pay.
IRWD does not participate or pay into Social Security except for the Medicare portion.
Medical Insurance
IRWD contracts with CalPERS for medical insurance coverage. Employees may elect coverage from a variety of PPO and HMO plans. The employee and District contribution for health insurance varies by plan. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.
Dental Insurance
IRWD contracts with Delta Dental for dental coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for dental coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.
Vision Insurance
IRWD contracts with the EyeMed for vision coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for vision coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.
Life Insurance
Eligible employees are provided with life insurance coverage equal to three or four times their annual salary, depending on their level of compensation. Eligible dependents are also covered for a flat benefit amount. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.
Deferred Compensation
Participation in a deferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. Enrollment is voluntary and contributions are employee-paid and subject to IRS limits. The District matches employee contributions up to 3% of base pay after 1 year of employment.
Paid Vacation
Eligible employees begin accruing vacation benefits at the rate of 80 hours per year for the first 5 years of employment. Employees accrue 120 hours per year after 5 years of employment and 160 hours per year after 10 years of employment.
Paid Holidays
The District offers 10 scheduled paid holidays plus two (2) personal holiday per year.
Sick Leave
Eligible employees accrue 96 hours of sick leave annually.
Flexible Spending Accounts
Eligible employees may elect to participate in the District's Flex Advantage program. This program allows employees to deposit pre-tax dollars into special accounts to be used for a variety of purposes, including paying for qualified miscellaneous health care expenses and dependent care expenses. IRWD contracts with a third party administer to process payments from employee accounts using claim forms or a Flex Spending debit card.
Educational Assistance
The District will share in the pre-approved educational costs of tuition and books for employees who wish to attend college or take certification classes.
Closing Date/Time: Continuous
