Water Systems Operator I/II
About The Position
The Water Operator performs semi-skilled, skilled, technical, and maintenance tasks within the Water Division of the Public Works Department. The position operates and maintains the water distribution system and associated facilities and contributes to the production and treatment of groundwater for the City's water supply. Work includes maintaining and repairing production wells, pump stations, storage tanks, and other water infrastructure. The operator monitors water quality using field equipment and SCADA systems and may perform pipeline construction and repair, meter installation, and heavy equipment operation. The role also involves responding to customer inquiries and complaints, maintaining safety and regulatory compliance, and responding to emergencies after hours. It requires technical expertise, physical labor, and the ability to work in challenging conditions to support efficient water-system operations. The City describes two levels: Operator I, which includes on-the-job learning, and Operator II, which involves more advanced equipment operation and complex system maintenance.
Requirements
- Education equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade.
- For Water Systems Operator I, no specific experience is required.
- For Water Systems Operator II, two years of increasingly responsible experience performing duties involving operation, installation, maintenance, and repair of water distribution facility systems at a level equivalent to Water Systems Operator I.
- Ability to perform physical tasks including bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, and lifting weights up to 50–100 pounds.
- Ability to collaborate effectively and communicate clearly.
- Professionalism, courtesy, and responsiveness in serving the public and working with the team.
Nice To Haves
- Some general maintenance and/or construction experience is preferred.
- For Operator I, openness to on-the-job training, learning standardized chemical tests, and mastering safe work practices and procedures.
- For Operator II, comfort with advanced equipment operations, complex water system maintenance, and reading and interpreting gauges and recording devices.
Responsibilities
- Operate and maintain the water distribution system and associated facilities.
- Contribute to the production and treatment of groundwater for the City's water supply.
- Maintain and repair production wells, pump stations, storage tanks, and other water infrastructure.
- Monitor and ensure water quality using field equipment and SCADA systems.
- Perform pipeline construction and repair and install meters.
- Operate heavy equipment.
- Respond to customer inquiries and complaints with professionalism and courtesy.
- Maintain safety and regulatory compliance.
- Respond to emergency situations after hours.
- Keep clear and accurate records and collaborate with supervisors and fellow operators.
Benefits
- Four-day workweek, Monday through Thursday, nine hours per day, with a three-day weekend each week.
- Approximately 80 to 184 hours of vacation per year, depending on years of service.
- 96 hours of sick leave per year.
- More than 10 paid holidays.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, with HMO or PPO options for employees and eligible dependents.
- Defined benefit retirement program through CalPERS.
- Deferred Compensation Section 457b plan and City match.
- Education assistance, including tuition reimbursement.
- Employee home loan assistance program.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
