Are you ready to launch a career that keeps your community running? The City is seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our Utilities team as Utilities Plant Operator I / II — the entry point to a rewarding career in public utilities.
Upcoming Salary Increases and Incentives
- 3% effective 7 / 1 / 26
- 25.5% Education Incentive - Bachelor's degree
- 5% Education Incentive - Master's degree
Distinguishing Characteristics
Positions allocated to this series are typically flexibly staffed to the next level. Generally, employees may promote upward to the next level as they meet the qualifications / certifications required by the higher-level class and have demonstrated proficiency in performing work at that level, subject to approval by management.
Utilities Plant Operator I
This is the entry level in the Utilities Plant Operator series. Positions in this class typically have little related work experience and lack the ability to perform the full range of duties independently. The Utilities Plant Operator I class is distinguished from the II level by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the II level. Incumbents work under direct supervision while learning job tasks, progressing to the general supervision as procedures and processes of assigned area of responsibility are learned. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the Trainee level.
Utilities Plant Operator II
This is the journey level class in the Utilities Plant Operator series and is distinguished from the I level by the assignment of the full range of duties. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new, unusual, or unique situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the I level.
Application Process
Applicants will be assessed on the application submitted. Due to the volume of applications received, resumes will not be screened for the purpose of determining who is most qualified to compete in the testing process. It is the applicant's responsibility to fill out the "Education" and "Work Experience" sections of the application with complete information and adequate detail. Do not substitute any part of the application form with the words "see resume." The following information is provided for you to use as a reference and as a planning tool. Human Resources is unable to schedule make-up examinations. Applicants considered to be the most qualified will be invited to continue in the testing process.
Tentative Testing Schedule
In-Person Written Exam - November 14, 2025Essential Functions
Perform assigned treatment / production plant rounds inspecting, monitoring, and documenting plant operations by reading plant equipment gauges, dials, graphs, and other instrumentation.Operate, troubleshoot, and adjust treatment / production plant flows, pumps, motors, feeders, and other specialized equipment to maintain appropriate plant operations.Operate and maintain lift stations and pump stations.Operate equipment such as forklifts, lifts, and overhead cranes.Maintain, repair, and service plant operations machinery and equipment including pumps, valves, motors, meters, tanks, and reservoirs, as necessary.Check Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) parameters through onsite and remote interfaces in order to monitor and operate systems and to identify maintenance needs; maintain, adjust, and repair SCADA system; enter data into the system at remote sites using micro-computer or other devices.Collect liquid samples and perform a variety of routine water and wastewater process laboratory tests; record and monitor results.Maintain accurate records and documentation of all plant activities; record mathematical calculations related to operational activities; compile data and prepare reports on plant operations, distribution systems, and chemical use.Respond to and investigate public concerns regarding water / wastewater quality problems.Perform general plant maintenance such as cleaning, painting, and repairing plant facilities.Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, and the public using principles of good customer service.Observe and maintain a safe working environment in compliance with established safety programs and procedures.Utilities Plant Operator I Qualifications
In addition to the qualifications for the Utilities Plant Operator Trainee :
Knowledge of
Principles and practices of water or wastewater treatment / production plants, depending upon assignment.Operating principles of plant equipment such as valves, pumps, and motors.Standard principles of the natural sciences including chemistry and biology.Safe work practices in a variety of situation such as confined spaces.Laboratory analysis techniques and standards for water and / or wastewater.Safe handling techniques for materials and equipment used in water / wastewater treatment.Operational and safety regulations pertaining to water and / or wastewater treatment / production plant operations and vehicle and equipment usage.Sampling methods and techniques.Basic plumbing and electrical principles.Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) computerized pump control systems.Ability to
Analyze and compile technical and statistical information and prepare reports.Respond to difficult and sensitive public inquiries.Respond to emergency situations and make appropriate decisions.Identify malfunctions with pumping capacities, pneumatic controls and computerized controls.When assigned to Water
Spray pesticides, herbicides and insecticides in a safe manner and handle chemicals accordingly, as required.Perform standby duty as assigned.Experience and Training Guidelines
Any combination of experience, education and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be :
Experience
One year of increasingly responsible experience performing duties in water or wastewater treatment, production or distribution.Training
Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.License and Certificates
Possession of, or ability to obtain an appropriate, valid California driver's license.
Additional Requirements
May be required to successfully pass the CalOSHA Respirator Medical Screening evaluation and fit test.Must obtain a Grade I Water Treatment certificate from the State of California within eighteen (18) months of appointment.Must have a Grade III Water Distribution Operator certificate at time of appointment.Must obtain a Water Sampling certificate within twelve (12) months of appointment.Possession of a valid Crane Operator Certificate, issued by the National Commission of Crane Operators (NCCCO), is required within six (6) months of assignment.Must obtain and maintain a valid Class B Commercial California Driver's license with specific endorsements within ninety (90) days of appointment.Failure to obtain any of the required licenses / certificates within the prescribed time may result in release from probation or termination.Must be a minimum 18 years of age at time of application.During the course of employment, may be required to attend and successfully complete training courses as needed to perform assigned duties, including first aid and CPR.Utilities Plant Operator II Qualifications
In addition to the qualifications of the Utilities Plant Operator I :
Knowledge of
Water disinfection and chemical dosage requirements.Ability to
Perform standby duty as assigned.Complete the more complex work with minimal supervision.Troubleshoot and diagnose malfunctions with pumping capacities, pneumatic controls and computerized controls, and determine effective course of action for correcting them.Experience
Two years of experience performing increasingly responsible duties in water or wastewater treatment, production or distribution.Training
High School diploma or GED equivalency.License or Certificate
Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid California driver's license.Additional Requirements
May be required to successfully pass the CalOSHA Respirator Medical Screening evaluation and fit test.Possession of a Grade I Water Treatment Operator certificate from the State of California at the time of appointment.Possession of a Grade III Water Distribution Operator certificate at the time of appointment.Possession of a Water Sampling certificate at the time of appointment.Possession of a valid Crane Operator Certificate, issued by the National Commission of Crane Operators (NCCCO), within six (6) months of assignment.Possession of a valid Class B Commercial California driver's license with specific endorsements within ninety (90) days of appointment.Failure to obtain any of the required licenses / certificates within the prescribed time may result in release from probation or termination.Possession of a Grade III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate from the State of California at the time of appointment.Must be a minimum 18 years of age at time of application.During the course of employment, may be required to attend and successfully complete training courses as needed to perform assigned duties, including First Aid and CPR.Equal Opportunity Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering, cultivating and preserving a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion. We are a California public agency and are required to comply with California Human Resources Agency laws, rules and regulations and we are required to comply with the California Office of Federal and State Ethics laws as well as federal laws, rules, regulations, and ethics as required by the California Agency Ethics Act.
CalOSHA and Medical Screening
May be required to successfully pass the CalOSHA Respirator Medical Screening evaluation and fit test.
Crane Operator Certificate
Possession of a valid Crane Operator Certificate, issued by the National Commission of Crane Operators (NCCCO), is required within six (6) months of assignment.
Driver's License Endorsements
Must obtain and maintain a valid Class B Commercial California driver's license with specific endorsements within ninety (90) days of appointment.
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