Water Distribution Operator I/II

City of Napa•Napa, CA

About The Position

The City of Napa Utilities - Water Distribution Division is hiring multiple Water Distribution Operator I/II positions to install, operate, maintain, and repair the City's water distribution system and water meters. Positions will be primarily assigned to construction and repair of underground distribution pipelines. Operators support water distribution operations, make repairs, ensure job-site safety, install trench shoring, and implement temporary traffic-control zones. The role works collaboratively with Utilities Department team members and other departments to support safe, successful service to residents. The City offers a flexible 9/80 work schedule, with every other Friday off. The classification is flexibly staffed, and placement at Operator I or II depends on qualifications and experience. The posting describes salary ranges of $73,352.18–$88,617.42 annually for Operator I and $84,355.40–$101,910.51 annually for Operator II, with scheduled salary increases beginning in 2027. Multiple vacancies are being recruited, and the employment list may be used for future similar vacancies.

Requirements

At hire, possess and maintain a valid California Class C Driver’s License.
Within six months of hire, obtain and maintain a California Class B Commercial Driver’s License with Tanker Endorsements.
For Operator I, within six months of hire, obtain and maintain a State of California Grade D1 Water Distribution Operator Certificate.
For Operator II, within six months of hire, obtain and maintain a State of California Grade D2 Water Distribution Operator Certificate.
Demonstrate technical knowledge and skill in position-related areas and keep up with relevant developments and trends.
Demonstrate decision-making, including identifying issues and developing appropriate solutions.
Demonstrate safety awareness and the ability to identify hazardous conditions.
Work cooperatively with others to help a team achieve its goals.
Demonstrate emotional intelligence and the ability to manage responses effectively.
Adapt effectively to changes in work responsibilities, environments, structures, processes, or requirements.
Plan and organize work efficiently by prioritizing, leveraging resources, and staying focused.

Nice To Haves

Experience repairing water meters and underground distribution pipelines.
General construction and field maintenance experience.
Mechanical skills and repair experience.
A dependable, motivated, team-oriented approach; a positive attitude and calm demeanor in dynamic environments.

Responsibilities

Install, operate, maintain, and repair the City’s water distribution system and water meters.
Construct and repair underground distribution pipelines.
Maintain and repair water mains, service laterals, fire hydrants, valves, meters, meter vaults, and other water system facilities.
Perform job-site safety activities, install trench shoring, and implement temporary traffic-control zones.
Set up traffic control using signs and barricades and direct traffic around work sites.
Operate large trucks and medium-sized construction equipment, including loaders, backhoes, trenching machines, compressors, slope mowers, harvesters, and excavators.
Participate in excavating concrete, pavement, and dirt; backfill open trenches; and complete surfaces to finish as appropriate.
Operate leak-detection and pipe-locating equipment.
Collaborate with Utilities Department team members and other departments to support safe work and service to residents.

Benefits

Vacation leave: new employees can accrue up to 104 hours annually.
Prior full-time public service in a City, County, State, Federal Agency, or Special District may count toward vacation accrual tiers.
15 paid holidays per year.
4 hours of personal leave per year.
Sick leave accrual of up to 96 hours annually.
City contributions to dental and medical insurance plans.
CalPERS retirement pension system.
Eligibility to enroll in a 457 deferred compensation plan; the City contributes $83.33 per month to a 457 plan.
$50,000 of life insurance and AD&D coverage paid for by the City.
Phone stipend of up to $110 per month.
Tuition reimbursement of $2,000 per year.
Standby pay of $525 per week when assigned.
Flexible 9/80 work schedule, with every other Friday off.
Scheduled salary increases: 2.5% effective January 2027, 3.5% effective July 2027, 3.25% effective July 2028, and 2.85% effective July 2029.