SUPVERVISNG WATER QUALITY SPECIALIST
Utilities Department, Water Section
$8,000.33 – $11,257.00 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.
Note: To foster teamwork and collaboration in the department, organization-wide, and in the community, this full-time position works on-site/in-person.
ABOUT THE POSITION
The City of Gilroy is seeking a knowledgeable, motivated, and service oriented Supervising Water Quality Specialist to join our Utilities Department. This vital supervisory role supports the community by ensuring that Gilroy’s potable and recycled water systems meet the highest standards of safety, reliability and environmental compliance.
In this exciting opportunity, the Supervising Water Quality Specialist will work under the direct supervision of the Water Systems Superintendent performing journey-level duties and will supervise a variety of work in the collection and testing of water samples, maintenance of records and generation of reports relating to water quality, and research and evaluation of existing and proposed regulations to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal water quality regulations. The Supervising Water Quality Specialist will lead the development and implementation of the Backflow Prevention and Cross Connection Control Programs and will perform work associated with the operation, construction, and maintenance of the water system.
This is a non-exempt, supervisory position that is represented by AFSCME, Local 101, Supervisory Unit.
This position is ideal for individuals who thrive in both field and office environments, enjoy mentoring others and value public service. You will play a key part in safeguarding public health, interpreting data, preparing reports, recommending corrective actions, improving operational practices and support the long-term sustainability of Gilroy’s water resources.
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
This position offers exceptional opportunities for professional development by allowing you to gain advanced experience in water quality, distribution, treatment, and regulatory compliance. You will expand your leadership capabilities through supervisory responsibilities, training experience, and mentorship opportunities, while strengthening your technical knowledge in specialized areas such as backflow prevention, cross connection control and SCADA systems, telemetry and advanced water testing equipment. The role also provides access to City-supported professional training, certifications, and continuing education, helping you build expertise that directly supports long-term infrastructure improvements and the modernization of water systems. Altogether, this position establishes a strong foundation for growth into higher supervisory or managerial roles within municipal water operations.
EXAMPLES OF FIRST YEAR PROJECTS/ASSIGNMENTS:
- Refine improvements to water quality sampling schedules, workflows, and documentation process.
- Completion of the Annual Water Quality Report, SWRCB Electronic Annual Report and the Annual Water Loss Audit.
- Implementation of Gilroy’s Backflow Prevention Program.
- Participate in updating and improving regulatory reporting templates and submission processes.
- Support hydrant and valve maintenance programs including data tracking and field coordination.