Water Operator

Overview

WATER OPERATOR – Two Positions Available

Utilities Department, Operations Division, Water Section

$6,238.33 – $8,777.83 Monthly Plus Excellent Benefits

The final three steps (Step F, Step G, and Step H) included in the salary range listed above are available to employees in this job classification after completion of five years of service (Step

F), ten years of service (Step G), and 15 years of service (Step H). Initial salary placement is typically at the entry point of the range unless the candidate has prior lateral work experience which may warrant initial placement at a higher step.

Opportunity to work a 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off. This full-time position works on-site/in-person.

The City of Gilroy is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Join our team!

Are you passionate about public service and protecting one of our community’s most vital resources – clean reliable drinking water? The City of Gilroy is seeking a skilled and motivated Water Operator to play a key role in operating, maintaining, and improving the City’s water distribution and treatment systems.

In this hands-on and highly impactful role, you will work under the general supervision of the Water Systems Superintendent, perform and lead journey level duties associated with the operation, construction and maintenance of the water system. The Water Operator has advanced understanding of operating the water system in a safe and sustainable manner, including the use of Supervisory Controls and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems as well as an understanding of water quality requirements.

The Water Operator may also take direction from a Senior Maintenance Worker. This is a non-exempt classification represented by the AFSCME, Local 101, General Unit.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced water professional who values safety, teamwork, and excellence in service, and who wants to make a real difference every day for the residents and businesses of Gilroy.

As a Water Operator, your work directly safeguards public health, fire protection, and quality of life for the Gilroy community. You will ensure safe, high-quality drinking water for thousands of residents and support sustainable water system operations and regulatory compliance. Additionally, you will respond to emergencies and service needs that keep the City running smoothly and help maintain critical infrastructure that supports growth and resilience.

Your expertise and dedication will be visible in every hydrant that flows, every meter that reads accurately, and every system that operates safely – often behind the scenes, but always essential.

The Water Section is dedicated to providing high quality water and reliable services to our customers in a safe and timely manner. We promote smart, long-term and sustainable use of water resources. We accomplish this by managing our resources, utilizing practical technologies and providing employees with opportunities for growth and achievement.

• Bring strong technical experience in water operations and construction, repair, and maintenance of water distribution and treatment systems.
• Have experience planning, leading, and working with crews in the performance of assigned duties.
• Possess the ability to operate and monitor SCADA and telemetry systems.
• Confidently perform inspections, backflow testing, and cross-connection surveys.
• Read and interpret technical materials such as equipment and material specifications, repair manuals, and regulatory documents.
• Effectively communicate with teammates, supervisors, and the public.
• Hold customer service in the highest regard and take pride in community stewardship.
• Possess a high level of safety awareness and traffic control experience.
• Train and mentor staff and participate in ongoing training.
• Be comfortable performing physical tasks.
• Be adaptable and responsive in emergency and after-hours situations.
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and documentation.
• Utilize MS Office Suite applications with high proficiency.