Search Jobs

A completed online employment application is REQUIRED!

WE WILL NOT ACCEPT RESUMES IN LIEU OF APPLICATION WORK HISTORY

Tenatative Oral Panel Interviews scheduled for March 3, 2026

Incomplete or late applications will NOT be accepted.

You must enter all relevant work history in to this application system, resumes will NOT be considered in lieu of the required employment application information.

 

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. 

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

Under immediate supervision (Wastewater Operator I) or general supervision (Wastewater Operator II), performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled tasks in the maintenance and operation of the City's sanitary sewer system and wastewater treatment plant.

 

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Wastewater Operator I - This is the entry level class in the Wastewater Operator series. This class is distinguished from the Wastewater Operator II by the performance of the more routine tasks and duties assigned to positions within this series. Employees at this level are not expected to perform with the same independence of direction and judgment on matters related to established procedures and guidelines as are positions allocated to the II level. Since this class is typically used as a training class, employees may have only limited or no directly related work experience. Employees work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks.

Wastewater Operator II - This is the full journey level class within the Wastewater Operator series. This class is distinguished from the Wastewater Operator I by the assignment of the full range of duties assigned. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and they 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.

 

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

 

1. Operate and adjust controls on treatment plant equipment and machinery, such as valves, pumps and motors.

2. Grease and clean plant equipment; read and interpret meters and gauges; regulate plant effluent.

3. Monitor, repair, and maintain wastewater system lift stations; remove debris; disassemble and clean pumps; perform minor repairs when necessary.

4. Respond to emergency calls as needed; locate problems and operate sewer cleaning equipment to clear stoppages. 

5. Collect samples and perform various lab tests.

6. Inspect and make repairs to plant equipment.

7. Perform general plant maintenance work such as sweeping, cleaning, sanding and painting of equipment and facilities.

8. Assist in operating video inspection system.

9. Perform general grounds maintenance work.

10. Rod sanitary sewers; install and repair sanitary sewer laterals and trunk lines.

11. Enter and work in permitted confined spaces and underground trenches.

12. Locate, mark and notify sewer lines per USA (underground service alert) requirements.

13. Observe and enforce safety precautions. 

14. May temporarily be assigned to work with other City departments as needed.

15. Operate trucks, tractors and other motorized equipment of comparable size and complexity.

16. Perform related duties as required. 

Overview:

Valley Water is seeking an Associate Water Resources Specialist to provide professional-level analytical and technical support for complex water supply planning and imported water initiatives critical to Valley Water’s long-term water reliability.

This position will provide support in the following areas:

• Development of water supply planning projects, including the Sites Reservoir Project, Sisk Dam Raise Project, and groundwater banking initiatives.
• Development and administration of water transfer agreements and other agreements needed to flexibly convey water to Valley Water facilities.
• Review, analysis, and comment on Bay-Delta regulatory issues affecting imported water supplies.

The Associate Water Resources Specialist works with a high degree of competence and judgment on assigned analyses, studies, and project components, while operating within established program direction and in coordination with senior staff and project leads.

Our Commitment: 
We are committed to building and sustaining a working environment where all individuals are respected and valued. We believe every member of our team brings unique perspectives that enhance our ability to serve the public effectively. By fostering a workplace with employees from the communities we serve, we broaden our collective understanding of the world around us and strengthen our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.

About Valley Water:
Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San José, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.

 

Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct studies, investigations, and analyses related to water supply planning, imported water management, regulatory processes, and related water resources issues.
• Research, collect, analyze, and interpret scientific, technical, regulatory, and policy information to support water supply projects and programs.
• Prepare technical memoranda, reports, analyses, and briefing materials related to water supply operations, planning, modeling, and regulatory compliance.
• Review and analyze water supply planning documents, environmental and regulatory reports, contracts, and related materials; prepare comments and recommendations under established guidance.
• Support the development, administration, and monitoring of water supply agreements, transfer arrangements, and related documentation.
• Apply water resources principles and practices to evaluate project alternatives, identify risks and issues, and recommend solutions.
• Coordinate with internal divisions and external agencies to support project implementation, data sharing, and information exchange.
• Serve as a technical resource in assigned areas of water resources expertise.
• Participate in meetings, technical advisory groups, and project teams related to imported water and water supply planning.
• Maintain project documentation, databases, and files using specialized software and tools.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Ideal Candidate's Background Includes:

Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.

Ideal Experience:

• Four (4) years of professional-level experience with responsibility for water supply planning or distribution, environmental permitting, groundwater management, mitigation of natural resource impacts, hydrogeology, or closely related work.
• Experience supporting complex projects involving regulatory review, technical analysis, or policy evaluation.
• Experience working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and external agencies.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• Project and program management, including budgeting, scheduling, and contract administration.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex and evolving water resources issues.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Ability to plan, prioritize, and manage multiple assignments while meeting deadlines.
• Ability to exercise sound, independent judgment consistent with policy and best practices.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external partners.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Principles and practices of water resources management, groundwater and surface water systems, and natural resource management.
• Numerical modeling, forecasting, risk analysis, and statistical analysis methods.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies related to water resources and environmental protection.
• Water supply operations, groundwater monitoring, contamination and protection, and water quality standards.
• Project and program budgeting, funding, and contract administration practices.
• Natural resource restoration principles, including aquatic, riparian, wetland, and habitat improvement projects.

Ideal Training and Education:

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in water resources management, environmental science, natural resources management, planning, engineering, geology, or a related field.
• Experience: Four (4) years of professional-level experience related to environmental permitting, water supply planning or distribution, groundwater management, hydrogeology, or mitigation of natural resource impacts.

Required License or Certificate

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Individuals who do not meet the driver's license requirement due to a disability will be considered for a reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

To review the Classification Specification, please click here

Imported Water Unit (Position Code 624)
Valley Water Telework Program: Eligibility for telework will depend on the type of work performed, operational needs, and the ability for the employee to perform the essential functions of their job duties while teleworking. Employment with Valley Water requires employees to live within 150 miles of their primary physical work location located in San Jose, California by their start date.

 

This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule, typically working 40% remote and 60% onsite. 

Microbiologist II: $118,934.40 - $152,152.00 annually 
Microbiologist III: $127,982.40 - $163,820.80 annually

Overview:

Ready to use your microbiology expertise to protect your community and ensure safe, reliable drinking water? Check out this opportunity.

The Microbiologist II/III is a critical position to meet compliance requirements related to treatment operations, adoption of new Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ELAP) regulations, bacteriological monitoring, algae monitoring, invasive species monitoring, and other critical water quality testing. 

The overall focus of this position is to perform full range of microbiological and analytical testing activities in the Water Quality Lab's microbiology section, including method development, data review and approval, standard operating procedure updates, and meeting all requirements of the Laboratory's quality assurance program. This position has the responsibility to perform a number of bacteriological determinations, analysis of Giardia/Cryptosporidium, invasive mussels, algae speciation, and other work as assigned.

This position will be responsible for sample collection and analysis of a variety of samples in the field and at various facilities. In addition, the ideal candidate will have thorough understanding of drinking water regulations and monitoring requirements and will be able to adapt specific U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and/or Standard Methods for the Analysis of Water and Wastewater for the purpose of State accreditation. The position requires good instrument troubleshooting and maintenance skills, and ability to perform complex water quality studies; review and analysis of analytical data; follow all environmental health and safety policies and procedures; and work well with other team members.

Our Commitment: 
We are committed to building and sustaining a working environment where all individuals are respected and valued. We believe every member of our team brings unique perspectives that enhance our ability to serve the public effectively. By fostering a workplace with employees from the communities we serve, we broaden our collective understanding of the world around us and strengthen our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.

About Valley Water:
Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San José, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.

Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Develop and review microbiological and analytical methods and procedures for water quality analysis. 
• Perform complex microbiological testing and evaluate the effectiveness of testing methods.
• Comply with the requirements of the Laboratory Quality Management System.
• Maintain all Documentation and conduct Standard Operating Procedure review and updates.
• Sample collection, receiving, login, preservation, and shipping.
• Participate in the proficiency testing program and monitor the performance of work performed in the Microbiology section through the internal audit program.
• Perform routine and non-routine maintenance of laboratory equipment and instruments.
• Data reporting, review, and trend analysis using the Laboratory Information Management System.

Ideal Candidate's Background Includes:

Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.

Ideal Experience:

Microbiologist II: Three (3) years of experience in drinking water or wastewater analysis. 

Microbiologist III: Five (5) years in drinking water or wastewater analysis.

• Knowledge and experience in the preparation of bacteriological media, and Total Coliform and E. coli, and Heterotrophic Plate Counts (HPC) analysis.
• Monitoring of reservoirs and source waters to detect changes in water quality due to biological activity, such as, algae and algal toxicity, bacteriological, invasive mussels and other constituents as needed.
• Hands on experience or training in the analysis of Giardia/Cryptosporidium.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

Microbiologist II

• Perform special biological, limnological, and ecological investigations of reservoirs, distribution systems and recycled water collect samples for specified projects.
• Assist in the development of applied research projects; develop and review test equipment, products, methods, and procedures; recommend operational and equipment modifications to ensure delivered water meets regulatory requirements.
• Maintain and conduct minor maintenance on various laboratory equipment.
• Develop, implement, and continuously optimize measurement techniques.
• Enter data and navigate the Laboratory Information Management System.
• Perform a variety of duties in the analysis of drinking water, recycled water, and groundwater samples.
• Learn to perform and interpret water analysis test results.
• Learn to identify and analyze existing and potential laboratory demands and management challenges.
• Learn to administer budget, personnel, and administrative issues.
• Learn to analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions and implement recommendations in support of goals.
• Learn to conduct complex water quality studies and review, analyze, and interpret the results. 
• Prepare clear and concise reports. 
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

Microbiologist III 

In addition to the qualifications for Microbiologist II 

• Independently perform analysis of Giardia/Cryptosporidium meeting the regulatory requirements. 
• Identify and analyze existing and potential laboratory demands and management challenges. 
• Administer budget, personnel, and administrative issues. 
• Maintain laboratory equipment and participate in procurement process for equipment and supplies. 
• Analyze problems, identify alternative solutions, project consequences of proposed actions, and implement recommendations in support of goals. 
• Conduct complex water quality studies and review, analyze, and interpret the results. 
• Perform a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility. 
• Perform a wide variety of professional analytical and technical duties involved in the analyses of drinking water, wastewater, and related material samples for organic or inorganic constituents.

Ideal Knowledge:

Microbiologist II 

Some Knowledge of: 

• Operational characteristics of laboratory and electronic instruments and equipment. 
• Methods and techniques of water sampling, preservation, extraction, storage requirements, and analysis of microorganisms. Methods and techniques used in laboratory quality assurance programs. 
• Principles and practices of applied research projects. 
• Methods and techniques of handling and storing hazardous materials. 
• Federal and state laws, codes, and regulations such as Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Parts 136 and 141, and Title 22, Chapter 15 of the California Code of Regulations for drinking water. 

Working Knowledge of: 

• Principles and practices of microbiology measurement techniques for various water matrices. 
• Operation of analytical instrumentation and operating systems. 
• Calibration, operation, and minor maintenance and repair of instrumentation. 
• Interpretation of test results for water quality determinations. 

Microbiologist III 

In addition to the qualifications for Microbiologist II 

Working Knowledge of: 

• Principles, practices, and responsibilities involved in leading the work of assigned staff. 

Thorough Knowledge of: 

• Drinking water regulations and monitoring requirements. 
• Regulatory notification and reporting requirements.

Ideal Training and Education:

Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in microbiology, molecular biology, or related scientific field. 

Substitution

Directly related experience may be substituted for the college requirement on the basis of one and one-half years of experience for one year of education to a maximum of four years.

Required License or Certificate

Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver's license. Individuals who do not meet the driver's license requirement due to a disability will be considered for a reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.

To review the Classification Specification, please click here (Download PDF reader)

Laboratory Services Unit  (Position Code 535)
Valley Water Telework Program: Eligibility for telework will depend on the type of work performed, operational needs, and the ability for the employee to perform the essential functions of their job duties while teleworking. Employment with Valley Water requires employees to live within 150 miles of their primary physical work location located in San Jose, California by their start date. 

This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule, typically working 10% - 20% remote.

Assistant Biologist I: $110,385.60 - $141,315.20 annually 
Assistant Biologist II: $118,934.40 - $152,152.00 annually

Overview:

Join a team dedicated to protecting and stewarding natural resources while supporting critical water infrastructure projects across Santa Clara County.

The Assistant Biologist I/II is an entry-level field position within Valley Water’s Watershed Planning and Stewardship Division, Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Unit. This role primarily supports wildlife biology efforts, though experience in any biological discipline is valued. The Assistant Biologist will conduct ecological field data collection and environmental compliance in support of a wide range of projects and programs managed or supported by the Unit.

The Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Unit provides ecological and biological expertise across Valley Water’s activities to support effective natural resource management, environmental stewardship, and compliance with environmental laws and regulations. The Unit’s responsibilities include managing long-term mitigation monitoring programs; implementing ecology-focused stewardship projects under the Safe, Clean Water Program; overseeing land management and easement monitoring for mitigation lands; administering the plant pathogen program; providing biological subject matter expertise for more than 30 capital projects and long-range planning efforts; and managing the Fisheries and Aquatic Habitat Collaborative Effort (FAHCE). The Unit specializes in special-status species, jurisdictional habitats, impact and habitat function assessments, avoidance and minimization measures, mitigation design and monitoring, and environmental permitting.

In this role, the Assistant Biologist I/II will perform essential field and support duties that ensure continuous and comprehensive biological support for Valley Water projects and programs. This includes permit compliance activities and mitigation and monitoring efforts.

Our Commitment: 
We are committed to building and sustaining a working environment where all individuals are respected and valued. We believe every member of our team brings unique perspectives that enhance our ability to serve the public effectively. By fostering a workplace with employees from the communities we serve, we broaden our collective understanding of the world around us and strengthen our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.

About Valley Water:
Valley Water is a public agency with an operating and capital budget of $964 million, and over 900 employees. With headquarters in San José, Valley Water provides water supply, enhances streams and watersheds through creek restoration and habitat protection, provides flood protection for homes, schools, businesses and roadways, and partners with other agencies to provide trails and open space for the community.

Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct wildlife and mitigation lands management survey and monitoring field activities including nesting bird surveys, special-status species surveys, amphibian and reptile sampling and surveys, conservation easement monitoring, long-term management plan implementation, on-site biological compliance monitoring, impact evaluations, and habitat assessments.
• Assist with fisheries monitoring activities including aquatic sampling surveys, electrofishing, fish trapping, habitat typing, eDNA, flow profiles, PIT tracking, spawning surveys, and general site assessments.
• Assist with vegetation field work including vegetation mapping, rare plant surveys, and mitigation site monitoring.
• Provide technical biological expertise to support planning, design, and construction phases for a variety of projects to minimize impacts on biological resources.
• Data entry, management, and analysis, database upkeep, scientific permit administration, GIS tasks, report preparation.
• Experience working with the local flora and fauna of Santa Clara County.

Ideal Candidate's Background Includes:

Applicants whose experience and background best match the ideal experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and education are considered ideal candidates for the position. To determine the top candidates, each applicant will be assessed based on the ideal candidate criteria as listed below.

Experience:

Assistant Biologist I:

One (1) year of experience performing professional-level responsibilities as a biologist involving a significant amount of field work.

Assistant Biologist II:

Three (3) years of experience performing professional-level responsibilities as a biologist involving a significant amount of field work.

Substitution: Master’s degree in biology, ecology, zoology, or a related discipline in a life sciences field from an accredited college or university may substitute for one year of the required experience.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

Assistant Biologist I

• Learn federal and state permitting regulations, laws, processes, and practices applied in natural resource management, including but not limited to those issued by California Department of Fish and Wildlife, US Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, US Army Corps of Engineers, Regional Water Quality Control Board, and the Federal and California Endangered Species Acts (ESAs).
• Research, evaluate, and write studies, reports, papers, and related literature used in the field of biology.
• Use scientific libraries and information systems for locating relevant scientific literature.
• Assess, mitigate, monitor, and report biological elements and impacts; evaluate thresholds of significance.
• Learn to interpret and apply federal, state, and local policies, laws, and regulations, including the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
• Perform a variety of tasks to measure, control, and assure the quality of in-situ data and information collected before, during, and after ecological survey and monitoring. activities. 
• Learn to apply and utilize the principles, data, and processes of the Valley Water’s Global Positioning System (GPS), Geographic Information System (GIS), and Cartography.
• Use common desktop applications and software as well as specialized software (such as R) related to the work.

Assistant Biologist II

In addition to the qualifications for Assistant Biologist I:

• Interpret and apply federal, state, and local policies, laws, and regulations, including CEQA and NEPA.
• Learn to interpret, negotiate, implement, and report federal and state environmental permitting conditions.
• Make significant progress towards becoming a subject matter expert (Qualified Biologist) in one or more subject areas designated by management.
• Formulate and evaluate proposals and alternatives for use in natural resource management.
• Plan, organize, and manage small projects, programs, and interdisciplinary teams.

Ideal Knowledge:

Assistant Biologist I

• Best Management Practices (BMPs), principles, and techniques commonly used in field biology, including the planning, organizing, conducting, and managing of biological investigations and surveys.
• BMPs, principles, and techniques used in the field that are specific to a subject matter designated by management (e.g., wildlife, fisheries, flora, wetlands).
• Learn the principles, methods, and practices used to identify and evaluate the biological impacts caused by Valley Water operations, programs, and activities.
• A variety of biological field equipment is used to sample, monitor, measure, maintain, and restore biological resources.
• Physiology, anatomy, lifecycle, and habitat of a biological resources (e.g., wetlands, flora, fishery, wildlife) designated by management.
• Quality control and quality assurance principles and practices applied in the collection and management of biological data.
• Learn CEQA and NEPA.
• Common desktop applications and software.
• Authorities, methods, and techniques of scientific research, statistics, analysis, and reporting used in the discipline of biology.

Assistant Biologist II

In addition to the qualifications for Assistant Biologist I:

• The operations, practices, and products used by suppliers of biological resources (e.g., nurseries, fisheries).
• Principles and practices of project management.
• Principles and practices used in the planning, design, and implementation of restoration, conservation, mitigation, and monitoring programs of biological resources.
• CEQA and NEPA.
• Federal and state permitting regulations, laws, processes, and practices applied in natural resource management, including but not limited to those issued by California Department of Fish and Wildlife, US Fish and Wildlife Service, National Marine Fisheries Service, US Army Corps of Engineers, Regional Water Quality Control Board, and the ESAs.

Ideal Training and Education:

Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in biology, ecology, wildlife, fisheries, botany, or a related discipline in a life sciences field.

Required License or Certificate Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid California driver’s license.To review the Classification Specification, please click here (Download PDF reader)

Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Unit (Position Code 198)
Valley Water Telework Program: Eligibility for telework will depend on the type of work performed, operational needs, and the ability for the employee to perform the essential functions of their job duties while teleworking. Employment with Valley Water requires employees to live within 150 miles of their primary physical work location located in San Jose, California by their start date. 

This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule, typically working 40% remote and 60% onsite.

The City of Thousand Oaks Community Development Department is seeking an experienced, collaborative, forward-thinking leader to serve as its next Deputy Director of Operations. In partnership with the Director, Deputy Director of Planning, and the City’s Building Official, the new Deputy will provide direction and oversight to the department, which is responsible for ensuring that growth, housing, construction, and land use across the City remains balanced with Thousand Oaks’ environment and resources.

 

For additional details and to submit your application for this role, please visit the links listed below. 

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), one year at the prior step, and a good performance evaluation. 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. 

To foster teamwork and collaboration in the department, organization wide, and in the community, 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! 

ABOUT THE POSITION
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 paly 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. 
 

THE DIFFERENCE YOU’LL MAKE

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 TEAM AND DEPARTMENT
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.

 

 

CANDIDATE PERSPECTIVE
The City of Gilroy is committed to developing it’s employees. As a Water Operator, you’ll have opportunities to expand your certifications, technical expertise, and receive ongoing regulatory, safety, and leadership training. You will learn advanced SCADA, telemetry, and water quality technologies, gain experience in budgeting, contract oversight, and plan review. Whether you’re strengthening your technical mastery or building leadership skills, this role offers meaningful professional growth in a supportive public service environment. 

Working for Gilroy means being part of a collaborative organization that values integrity, respect, and teamwork. The City invests in it’s employees through training, career development, and a supportive work environment where your expertise is recognized and your contributions matter. With a strong focus on safety, infrastructure reliability, and customer service, Gilroy empowers its Utilities professionals to take pride in their work and make decisions that positively impact the community every day. 

EXAMPLES OF FIRST YEAR PROJECTS/ASSIGNMENTS:

• Learn Gilroy’s water distribution and treatment systems, including wells, reservoirs, pump stations, SCADA operations. 
• Support the development of Gilroy’s valve exercising and hydrant flushing program, including record keeping. 
• Assist with Gilroy’s Steel Service Replacement program and keep the project on schedule for completion by July 1, 2028
• Complete required training and work toward Grade I Water Treatment Operator certificate and Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Certificate (if not already possessed). 

Do you have a passion for outdoor recreation and open space planning? Do you seek an opportunity to work on planning projects that focus on land use, public access improvements and staff facilities?  Midpen has an excellent opportunity for an experienced Planner III who will manage complex planning projects facilitating public access and outdoor recreation in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties.  The ideal candidate will be an organized, creative, and energetic self-starter with excellent communication, leadership and project management skills, and enjoys working with people. Top-level candidates are experienced with environmental review processes, feasibility studies, public outreach and engagement, design project management, and local, state, and federal land use laws and permitting processes, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), National Historic Preservation Act (NHP), etc.

About Midpen: Midpen helps plants, animals and people thrive throughout the greater Santa Cruz Mountains region by preserving a greenbelt of more than 70,000 acres of public open space with over 250 miles of trails in 27 extraordinary preserves, permanently protected for natural resource conservation and ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education. Midpen is a public agency with a focused mission that guides our work, and where every employee makes an impact.  If you are looking for an outstanding opportunity to contribute to the legacy of open space protection, natural resource restoration and outdoor recreation, working with an incredible team of like-minded colleagues, we invite you to apply for this position!  Midpen aims to recruit and retain employees who embody professionalism, accountability, and respect, who value working in a purpose-driven agency that aspires to contribute to an inclusive, diverse and equitable community.

About the Position:  The Planner III focuses on a wide variety of planning and capital improvement projects that include long-range planning; land use planning; site design; and environmental review to increase public access, outdoor recreation, and enjoyment of Midpen’s lands. The Planner III is tasked with performing complex professional level planning, analysis, and design; developing and administering project scopes, schedules and budgets; analyzing project risks and environmental issues related to public access and natural and cultural resources; directing the feasibility and early design phase of capital improvement projects that include trails, trailhead staging/parking areas and staff facilities; developing recommendations for land use policies; preparing long-range plans to guide the use and management of Midpen lands; conducting public outreach and engagement; preparing requests for proposals; assisting in development of grant applications; preparing environmental review documents; and obtaining planning permits and initial approvals for projects. The Planner III also provides project presentations to senior management, the Board of Directors, and Committees, and at public meetings, that may be held in the evenings and weekends. The Planner III also oversees and participates in the work of junior staff and has experience providing a high level of customer service with the public, vendors, contractors, and Midpen staff.

The ideal candidate is a self-starter who works independently with some supervision; possesses supervisory experience over other staff; communicates well and collaborates closely with internal team members from other departments to complete project requirements; works with local jurisdictional agencies to coordinate planning and permitting efforts; directs multidisciplinary teams of consultants; coordinates with in-house designers; prepares and presents clear and concise oral and written communications to senior staff and management, the Board of Directors and public; keeps projects on schedule and on budget while remaining flexible to adjust priorities as needed; maintains well-organized and complete project documentation; and builds trust with peers, community members, stakeholders, and Midpen leadership. Beneficial skills for this position would include experience in collaborative team environments; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and tribal relations; Coastal land use planning and permitting; and computer-based and/or other systems such as GIS for management and analysis of data regarding Midpen lands, facilities, natural and cultural resources.

For additional information about the position, see the Job Description page on Midpen’s website. The position receives direct supervision from a Senior Planner.

A Few Reasons Why You May Love This Job

• Collaborative work that directly supports Midpen’s mission to protect and restore the natural environment and contributes to providing nature’s benefits to everyone
• You’ll be part of a talented and dynamic team of bright, energetic, and motivated professionals with a passion for the outdoors, trails, and preserving open space
• Excellent employee benefits, including medical, dental, vision, tuition reimbursement, and a retirement pension through California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS)

Work Environment:  This position is part of the Planning Department at Midpen’s office in Los Altos, California.  The Planner III will be expected to be available to provide project presentations in the evenings and sometimes on weekends. In addition to working in the office, the Planner III will sometimes work in the field and hike through steep terrain and wildland areas.  Field work will require driving in remote areas on dirt roads, working in temperatures ranging from cold and blustery to hot and dry. Ideal candidates will be comfortable working in these types of field conditions, as well as in an office environment. Midpen offers a hybrid office/telecommute work schedule for this position in addition to a 9/80 schedule.

Education and Experience:  Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be: 

• Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in urban or environmental planning, landscape architecture, natural resource management, community development, environmental sciences, public administration, or a closely related field and
• At least five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in planning project management preferably in parks, open space, or a closely related field.

Licenses & Certifications Required:   Possession of a valid California Driver’s License.

Benefits:   Midpen provides an excellent benefits package including health, life & disability insurance as well as CalPERS pension. Please see the Benefits page on Midpen’s website for details.

How to Apply: apply online at CalOpps.org.

(To avoid missing email communication regarding your status in this recruitment, please add mpropenspace@calopps.org to your contacts or list of safe senders)

The deadline to apply is February 15, 2026. Applicants with the most relevant experience and qualifications suitable for the position will be contacted for an interview.

The following application items are required to be considered*:

1. Fully completed CalOpps employment application 

2. Cover letter 

3. Resume 

4. Supplemental question responses

*Incomplete CalOpps employment applications, or applications without the required application items listed here, will not be considered for the position.

Interview Schedule:   (dates are subject to change)

First Interview (virtual): February 26, 2026

Second Interview & Written Exercise (in person): March 3, 2026

 

A note to applicants who currently live outside of the San Francisco Bay Area: before committing to the application process, and if you haven’t done so already, we suggest evaluating the feasibility of relocation. We recommend researching the cost of living in the San Francisco Bay Area, the cost to relocate, and typical commute times to Los Altos from outlying areas.

Midpen reserves the right to limit or deny off-duty employment or business ownership which creates a conflict of interest or an incompatibility with District employment. Information can be found in the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual Section 4.13 Off-Duty Employment and Business Ownership.

At Midpen, we believe open space is for all. Our public lands are shared spaces provided for the community by the community. All people, regardless of background, deserve respect, dignity, safety, and a sense of belonging. Midpen welcomes all people to enjoy the public open space preserves we hold in trust, supporting the mental, physical, and social well-being of our region.

 

Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodation by contacting the Human Resources department at 650-691-1200.   

Put your passion for Open Space to work!

DESCRIPTION:

The Department:

Silicon Valley Power (SVP) is a not-for-profit electric municipal utility of Santa Clara, CA, serving residents and businesses for over 120 years. SVP provides power to nearly 55,000 customers, at rates 25 to 48 percent below neighboring communities. SVP is the only full service, vertically integrated publicly owned utility in Silicon Valley owning generation, transmission and distribution assets. As a Public Electric Utility, Santa Clara’s Silicon Valley Power is not driven by profits, as reflected in its significant lower utility rates when compared to other private sector utilities. Silicon Valley Power is community and policy driven, which is reflected in the many green policies that it promotes, reduced rates and its strategic plan. Silicon Valley Power is one of few public electric utilities in California with an upward trajectory of growth. In 2017, Silicon Valley Power also achieved 36% renewable and 72% HGH free energy and, since January 2018, Silicon Valley Power has been delivering GHG-free energy to all residential customers. All this was accomplished while maintaining the lowest electricity rates in Santa Clara County.

 

The Position: (add details below)

Silicon Valley Power (SVP) is seeking a dynamic, engaging and highly qualified professionals for one vacant unclassified management positions of Principal Electric Utility Engineer in Engineering division under our Customer Development and Project Management groups.

 

 

Engineering Division

 

This  position will lead an engineering team that will include substation engineering, Transmission system engineering and distribution system engineering. This position will be responsible for performing and managing the design of substation and transmission line projects from conception through construction and commissioning. This position will develop standards, specifications, engineering studies, calculations, evaluations, design documents associated with the planning, design, construction and maintenance of SVP substations, Transmission system, distribution system and other utility facilities. The candidates must have extensive experience in High voltage Substation and Transmission line design, plan, standard and specification preparation. The candidates must have proven problem solving skills and  excellent communication skills.

 

As a member of the City's Unclassified Service, this is an "at-will" position and the incumbent serves at the discretion of the City Manager.

 

 

Additional Information:

Applications must be filled out completely (e.g. do not write “see resume, NA, or personnel file.”). To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Resume and, 2) Certificate of registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

 

Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. Applications must be submitted by the filing deadline of Friday, February 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM.

 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED BELOW.  IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN EMPLOYMENT IN THIS CLASSIFICATION, YOU SHOULD APPLY TO ENSURE YOU ARE CONSIDERED FOR ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAY UTILIZE THE APPLICANTS FROM THIS RECRUITMENT. MEETING THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ADMITTANCE INTO THE EXAMINATION PROCESS.  ONLY THE MOST QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WHO DEMONSTRATE THE BEST COMBINATION OF QUALIFICATIONS IN RELATION TO THE REQUIREMENTS AND DUTIES OF THE POSITION WILL BE INVITED TO TEST OR INTERVIEW.

 

The annual salary range for this position is $214,236.60 - $277,243.92. This position may be filled at or near the minimum of the salary range.

 

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's Degree in electrical, mechanical, civil or other related field of engineering

 

Minimum Experience Requirements:

• Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in electric utility engineering work
• Candidates from a non-accredited college or university must demonstrate educational equivalency by registration as a professional electrical, mechanical or civil engineer in the State of California

 

Acceptable Substitution:

• A Master's Degree in electrical, mechanical or civil engineering, or business or public administration from an accredited college may be substituted for one year of experience

 

License/Certifications:

• Possession of a certificate of registration as a Professional Engineer in the State of California is required
• Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license is required at the time of appointment and for duration of employment

 

Other Requirements: 

• Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment
• May be required to work unusual hours in emergency situations
• Required to pass initial and periodic comprehensive background checks, which may include fingerprinting, to meet Federal, State, and /or industry security requirements

 

Follow this link to view the entire Class Specification, which includes more information on Typical Duties and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.

Learn more about this exciting opportunity by clicking the link below!

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/marinwater/jobs/5188525/landscape-and-facilities-maintenance-coordinator?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Learn more about this exciting opportunity by clicking the link below!

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/marinwater/jobs/5177819/watershed-aide-vegetation-management?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs