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Overview:
Are you interested in becoming a water treatment plant operator? Do you have water treatment process experience? Are you a T1 or T2 licensed Water Treatment Operator? If so, check out the Assistant Water Plant Operator position at Valley Water.
 
Valley Water is the primary water resource agency for Santa Clara County, supplying wholesale water, providing flood protection, and serving as environmental steward for clean, safe creeks and healthy ecosystems. Valley Water serves approximately two million people in 15 cities: Campbell, Cupertino, Gilroy, Los Altos, Milpitas, Monte Sereno, Morgan Hill, Mt. View, Palo Alto, San Jose, Santa Clara, Saratoga and Sunnyvale, and the towns of Los Altos Hills and Los Gatos, and manages 10 dams and surface water reservoirs, three water treatment plants, a state-of-the-art water quality laboratory, 400 acres of groundwater recharge ponds, and 275 miles of streams.
 
The Assistant Water Plant Operator helps with all day-to-day plant operations, including operating and maintaining plant equipment, calibrating water quality monitoring equipment; taking and analyzing water and chemical samples; cleaning equipment and facilities; receiving bulk chemical deliveries; operating the sludge dewatering process; using the computer-based plant control, or SCADA system, completing data entry, initiating work orders, and maintaining plant operations logs and reports. Operators work a 4 to 6-month assigned rotations between day shift, night shift, and other shifts, as needed. The facility operates and is staffed continuously, which means 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This position reports to the Water Plant Supervisor and works under direction from the Senior/Water Plant Operator.
 
Our Commitment: 
Racial equity, diversity and inclusion are integral to Valley Water. We are committed to building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working environment for all. We believe every member of our team enriches our diversity, contributes to inclusion, and strengthens belonging by broadening our perspective and collective understanding of the world around us to accomplish our mission to equitably provide safe, clean water, natural flood protections, and environmental stewardship.
 
Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Regularly conduct rounds to monitor plant operations and maintain plant equipment and grounds; observe, evaluate, troubleshoot, and report condition of the facility and equipment, including pipes, pumps, valves, feeders, motors, basins, tanks, generators, analyzers, and sludge beds; take and record measurements and instrument readings, such as pressures, temperature, flow, volume, and concentrations; operate and adjust pumps and valves; calibrate and perform preventative maintenance on plant instruments; observe and report on the flow, volume, and quality of the water, including color, odor, and turbidity; and assist in maintaining grounds in a clean, orderly, and secure state. 
• Draw samples of water and other materials from the different phases of water treatment; measure and analyze the samples to determine compliance with Valley Water and regulatory standards for chlorine, ozone, phosphate, and ammonia residuals, pH, turbidity, taste, and odor. Receive and monitor deliveries of bulk chemicals and other plant supplies.
• Perform cleaning and maintenance procedures on operating equipment and facilities; including flocculators, basins, filters, sludge drying beds, washwater clarification system, and containment and delivery areas. Employees have a responsibility for safety; for following safety regulations and safety policies and procedures applicable to their work; and for carrying out those responsibilities with due diligence as a condition of employment.
• Use the plant's computer based Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to monitor plant operations; scan multiple computer monitors simultaneously; navigate a multitude of program screens to observe, track, and retrieve water, chemical, and equipment readings. Perform various administrative tasks, including data entry into spreadsheets, update standard operating procedures, initiate work orders, maintain, compile and update plant operations logs and reports. 

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:
Level I: 0-1 year of experience, including intern/temporary, in a similar work environment, such as handling industrial chemicals, working various alternating shifts (including night shift), operating mechanical equipment, and/or maintaining regulatory compliance.
Level II: One (1) or more years of experience performing work as a licensed operator at a water treatment plant that is rated as a T-4 or higher facility.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:
Both Level I & II:

• Good oral and written communication skills
• Ability to assimilate constructive feedback during on-the-job training
• Attention to details and ability to follow instructions

Ideal Knowledge:
Both Level I & II:

• Knowledge of the water treatment process
• Understanding of job duties of water plant operators
• Good high-school level math skills
• Basic understanding of chemistry
• Knowledge and recognition of importance of safety protocols, especially around chemicals

Ideal Training and Education:
Both Level I & II: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by six (6) quarter units in chemistry and six (6) quarter units in math from an accredited college.
 
Level I Substitution: 

• An Associate’s degree in engineering or chemistry from an accredited college may substitute for the training required at the time of application. 
• Possession of a Grade T1 Water Treatment Operator certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board may substitute for the training requirement at the time of application.

Level II Substitution: 

• An Associate’s degree in engineering or chemistry from an accredited college may substitute for the training and experience required at the time of application.

Work for the City of Sunnyvale: The Heart of the Silicon Valley Visitors and residents enjoy Sunnyvale's beautiful, clean suburban setting, efficient, high-quality city services, low crime rate, quality schools, and 18 prize-winning parks.

We are looking for an Active Transportation Planner to help the City of Sunnyvale to implement and improve bicycle, pedestrian and Safe Routes to School infrastructure and programs. This position will perform professional transportation planning and general design in bicycle, pedestrian and automobile integration, the use of different types of bicycle facilities and alternative modes of transportation.

The position will have a primary focus on the implementation, reporting and further development of the City’s active transportation network and programs. This will include public outreach, coordination with various departments, and other governmental agencies.

We are seeking a candidate that can communicate effectively with various stakeholders, think critically and objectively, able to learn quickly, and understand how to work within a process to achieve goals.

Working for the City of Sunnyvale as an Active Transportation Planner is both challenging and rewarding and you are provided an opportunity to invest in the community and see the results of your work. All of this, plus a generous benefits package that includes a competitive salary, career development, and training opportunities make the City of Sunnyvale a great place to work.

The City of Sunnyvale provides an excellent benefits package. A complete application consists of a City application and responses to the supplemental questionnaire.  The position opens on September 12, 2024, and the final filing date is October 24, 2024 at 5:00 pm. For complete information regarding this current opportunity, please visit: Sunnyvale.ca.gov and click on JOBS.

Salary: $59.52 - $75.97 Hourly

Please click the Job PDF button below to view the full job announcement.

Please click the Job PDF button below to view the full job announcement.

Please click on the Job PDF to view the announcement.

Hours: Casual non-benefited employees are limited to working no more than twenty-five (25) hours per week and no more than 900 hours in a fiscal year (July 1-June 30). Varying shifts are available including Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Under general supervision, individuals assigned to this classification assist the organization to develop and design reports, websites, social media collateral and other marketing and presentation materials. This classification focuses on the development of written and graphic representation for division or department materials. Individuals in this classification are primarily focused on enhancing the Division’s social media presence, developing all written material, performing administrative tasks, attending fairs and events to promote Recreation Services programs; and perform/ related work as required.

This position is characterized by developing new and innovative marketing collateral with limited structure or routine work. Work assignments are performed in collaboration with various divisions and levels of staff, independently, with responsibility for following through on development. Contacts are regularly made both internally and externally at all levels of the organization involving tact, discretion, good listening and customer service skills. The position requires creative ability, knowledge of how to generate graphics using The Adobe Suite, Canva, Microsoft Publisher, Word and Excel and the ability to exercise a reasonable degree of independent judgment. This classification assists with development and implementation of standards for consistency in materials, written and posted on the internet. Additionally, the position requires good written communication skills, public relations, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills and abilities. The Marketing Associate receives direction from program supervisors and management staff.

Essential Job Functions

(May include, but are not limited to, the following):

• Design and produce effective collateral for digital and print to promote programs, events and services
• Design and produce graphics materials using computer-based and traditional methods to meet organizational standards and deadlines
• Produce highly creative work within an established organizational style
• Edit electronic newsletter articles and blurbs, program descriptions for activity guide/fliers/online descriptions and social media posts
• Follow all City standards related to branding and writing (Associated Press style), or as otherwise directed, and meet deadlines
• Develop written content and edit for brochures, reports, logos and other marketing and presentation materials
• Consult with City staff and provide technical coaching and training to colleagues
• Participate in the planning, development and production of written and graphics materials
• Assist staff in the development of presentations using PowerPoint and other presentation software
• Create, develop and monitor posts and comments for social media accounts
• Represent the division at community outreach events (such as fairs, special events, etc.) by promoting community services programs and services
• Perform other duties as required

WORKING CONDITIONS
Position is required to work on the Community Center campus and may not work from home. Position requires prolonged sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting and stooping in the performance of daily activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement and fine coordination when using a computer keyboard. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision when reading and using a computer. Acute hearing is required when providing phone and personal service. The need to lift, push and pull files, paper and documents weighing up to 25 pounds also is required. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodations.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience:
The minimum qualifications for education and experience can be met in the following way:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in marketing, communications, graphic arts or a closely related field; AND
• One year of related work experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities.

Knowledge of:

• Computer programs utilized in the production of marketing collateral; specifically, the Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Microsoft Publisher, Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Dynamics of development of social media sites
• Basic principles of graphic design
• The Associated Press writing style

Ability to:

• Follow general instructions, directions and procedures;
• Accomplish assigned work and administrative tasks working independently or with a minimum of supervision;
• Process information and data in a relevant manner to reach reasonable conclusions and make practical decisions;
• Demonstrate flexibility of style relative to specific job assignments, working environments, shift schedules and hours;
• Interact well as part of a team;
• Perform relatively complex computer applications;
• Communicate with high proficiency in both written and spoken English;
• Use independent reasoning to solve programs of moderate complexity:
• Perform the essential functions of this position.

Skill in:

• Utilizing a personal computer and software relevant to this classification·
• Working effectively with others, as a contributing group or team member on multiple assignments
• Establishing and maintaining effective work relationships with a variety of people, including City staff, the public and outside consultants;
• Prioritize assignments and workload appropriately and responding to multiple deadlines
• Perform other duties as required

Licenses/Certifications: Possession and continued maintenance of a valid class C CA driver's license and a safe driving record.
 
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Previous experience in writing marketing collateral, graphic design and social media collateral

Application Process

If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit a completed application and responses to the supplemental questions to the Department of Human Resources.

City application forms, completed in full and responses to the supplemental questions are required. Candidates are asked to fully describe any training, education, experience and/or skills relevant to this position. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of the application, please do not indicate "see resume." Electronic applications may be submitted online through the City's employment page; go to Sunnyvale.ca.gov, Search: Jobs. Late or incomplete applications will also not be accepted. Please submit application materials as soon as possible to be considered for this position as this job posting may close without notice. 
 

TEMPORARY POTTERY INSTRUCTOR

 (Recreation Instructor 2 - Job Code 9523)

Hours: 3 to 9 hours/week. Casual non-benefited employees are limited to working no more than twenty-five (25) hours per week and no more than 900 hours in a fiscal year (July 1-June 30).  

Recreation Services Division is seeking self-motivated, energetic, responsible individuals interested in employment as a pottery instructor for adults. Under general supervision of the Recreation Services Coordinator, pottery instructors are responsible for teaching pottery techniques through lecture and demonstrations.  Classes are run year-round and meet once a week for 3 hours. Class sessions are six weeks long and include a week break for cleaning and restocking after two consecutive class sessions (every 12 weeks).

• Teach pottery/ceramic classes by leading and demonstrating techniques associated with the subject matter
• Maintain a safe, friendly and inclusive class environment for all participants
• Adjust class as appropriate and as needed to meet the various skill levels of participants
• Develop curriculum for each class meeting
• Knowledge of glazing and firing techniques
• Develop projects to keep class interesting for both regular and repeat participants
• Maintain documentation as required
• Report to work in a timely manner and appropriately prepared

WORKING CONDITIONS
Position requires regular sitting, standing, walking, reaching, twisting, turning, kneeling, bending, squatting, and stooping in the performance of activities. The position also requires grasping, repetitive hand movement and fine coordination. Additionally, the position requires near and far vision in reading reports and work related documents and using a computer. Acute hearing is required when providing personal customer service. The need to lift, drag and push, pull objects weighing up to 25 pounds is also required. Some of these requirements may be accommodated for otherwise qualified individuals requiring and requesting such accommodation.  

The minimum qualifications for education and experience can be met in the following way:
 
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Graduation from high school or tested equivalent; AND
• A minimum of 2 years as a professional potter or ceramicist; AND
• A minimum of 1 year of experience teaching *additional years of professional studio work may be substituted for teaching experience. 

Knowledge of:
Pottery and ceramic techniques including centering, wheel throwing, slab rolling, wedging, hand-building, low- and high-firing and glazing is required. Experience with alternative firing techniques is desirable, but not required.
ABILITY TO

• Work autonomously and as part of a team
• Develop new and interesting class curriculum
• Work with students of all levels and skill sets simultaneously

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• A degree(s) in pottery/ceramics 
• Practicing ceramicist/potter with exhibition and studio experience
• Experience with alternative firing techniques

APPLICATION PROCESS
If you are interested in this opportunity, please visit the City of Sunnyvale website at Sunnyvale Jobs and submit a completed application and responses to the supplemental questions to the Department of Human Resources.