Wastewater Treatment Operator II​/III – DOE

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

The Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Operator II/III position plays a key role in the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of the City’s wastewater treatment facilities. The successful candidate will be appointed at the Operator II or Operator III level based on qualifications and experience.

Under general direction, this position operates, monitors, and maintains the wastewater treatment plant, lift stations, trunk sewers, outfall, and related facilities. Responsibilities include adjusting treatment processes to meet NPDES permit requirements, utilizing SCADA systems to monitor and control plant operations, performing preventive maintenance on plant equipment, collecting and analyzing wastewater and sludge samples, and maintaining accurate operational records.

At the Operator III level, additional responsibilities may include advanced process optimization, technical leadership, administrative and reporting duties, CMMS oversight, contractor coordination, and providing support to or acting in the absence of the Chief Treatment Plant Operator. This position requires flexibility to work off-hour, weekend, holiday, and on-call shifts and to respond to emergency situations as needed.

This position requires flexibility to work rotating, weekend, holiday, and on-call shifts, and to respond to emergency callouts. The work environment may include exposure to inclement weather, noise, odors, fumes, and other potentially hazardous conditions, requiring strict adherence to safety practices and the use of personal protective equipment.

The successful candidate will be a reliable, safety-focused wastewater professional with the qualifications and experience necessary to operate and maintain wastewater treatment facilities in compliance with regulatory requirements. Appointment will be made at the WWTP Operator II or WWTP Operator III level based on the candidate’s education, experience, certifications, and demonstrated competencies.

The ideal Operator II candidate is a detail-oriented self-starter who works effectively both independently and as part of a team. They are mechanically inclined, safety-oriented, accurate with basic math, and able to follow established procedures and directions.

• High school diploma or equivalent, supplemented by training required by the California State Water Resources Control Board for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operation
• A minimum of twenty-four (24) months of hands‑on experience in wastewater treatment plant operations; equivalent experience may be considered at the City’s discretion

• Possession of a Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate or higher issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board
• Possession of a valid Class C California Driver’s License

The ideal Operator III candidate will demonstrate a strong record of efficient and productive performance and possess the experience, knowledge, and judgment necessary to lead, train, and mentor others when assigned. This level requires advanced technical expertise and the ability to independently analyze, troubleshoot, and optimize treatment plant operations.

• Education equivalent to graduation from high school, supplemented by training required by the California State Water Resources Control Board for Wastewater Treatment Plant Operation
• Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience operating and performing routine maintenance on facilities and equipment in a secondary wastewater treatment plant and related facilities

• Certification by the California State Water Resources Control Board in Wastewater Treatment Plant Operation
• Possession of a Grade IV Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board, or the ability to obtain a Grade IV certificate within twelve (12) months of assignment

All candidates must be willing and able to work non‑traditional hours, including rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and on‑call assignments, and to respond to emergency callouts as required. The position requires the ability to work in inclement weather and potentially hazardous environments, operate City or personal vehicles safely while conducting City business, and wear required personal protective equipment.

A strong commitment to safety, teamwork, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship is essential for success in this role.