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).