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If you enjoy working hard in a beautiful outdoor environment with a group of like-minded people, we invite you to apply for the position of Equipment Mechanic/Operator (EMO) at Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen). Enjoy the outdoors while transporting, operating and maintaining equipment used in the construction, maintenance, restoration and repair of public trails and rural roads in the foothills and ridges of the Santa Cruz Mountains.  Anticipated start date is January 2026. 

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 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!  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.

About the Position:  The EMO reports to a Maintenance Supervisor or Field Resource Specialist in the Land Stewardship & Trails Department. The selected individual will be responsible for using heavy equipment such as loaders, excavators, dozers, agricultural tractors, backhoes and rollers. Other responsibilities include the operation and maintenance of gas and electric-powered tools such as chainsaws, welders, and compactors.  For additional information about the position, see the job description on our website.  

Assigned work location may be at any of these offices:

• South Area Office (SAO) – Campbell (Address: 240 Cristich Lane, Campbell, CA 95008)
• Foothills Field Office (FFO) – Cupertino (Address: 501 Rancho San Antonio Drive, Cupertino, CA 95014)
• Skyline Field Office (SFO) – La Honda (Address: 21150 Skyline Blvd., La Honda, CA 94020) MAP
• Coastal Area Outpost (CAO) – La Honda (Address: 5710 La Honda Road, San Gregorio, CA  94074)

In addition to filling this position, we intend to create a pool of highly qualified candidates to fill future opportunities at Midpen for the position of Equipment Mechanic/Operator.

A Few Reasons Why You May Love This Job

• Collaborative work that directly supports Midpen’s mission to protect and restore the natural environment
• You’ll be part of a talented and dynamic team whose work contributes to providing nature’s benefits to everyone
• Excellent employee benefits, including medical, dental, vision, tuition reimbursement, and a retirement pension through California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS)
• ‘Joint Resource Workdays’ allow all district staff to get involved and work together on a variety of maintenance, resource management, habitat restoration and capital improvement projects. 

Education & 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:

High School Diploma or G.E.D. supplemented by specialized training in heavy equipment repair and operation and three (3) years of experience operating and transporting heavy equipment and maintaining and repairing vehicles, tools, and power equipment.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of a valid California’s Driver’s License.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Class A Driver’s License with appropriate endorsements within twelve (12) months of appointment.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, Basic First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification within six (6) months of employment.
• Depending on assignment, possession of, or ability to obtain, a District approved Fire Suppression Training certification, within twelve (12) months of assignment into the District’s fire program.   

Working Conditions:   The EMO is a full-time position within the Land Stewardship & Trails Department.  May be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Following onboarding and successfully meeting job performance expectations, may be eligible for the flexible work program which includes 9/80 schedules. May be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Must wear prescribed District uniform and adhere to strict safety procedures and work habits. Depending on the exposure, employee is required to wear head, hearing, eye, foot, face, hand, and full protection equipment. Employees work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, hazardous physical substances and fumes, and poison oak.

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.

Benefits:  Midpen provides a competitive benefits package including health, life and disability insurance, CalPERS pension and paid leaves.

Apply online at CalOpps.org.   

Application deadline is Sunday, November 2, 2025.

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.

Upon receipt of a conditional employment offer, candidate must provide a current DMV report (request report by submitting form INF 1125 to the DMV). Employment offers are conditional upon the results of a fingerprint background check and a pre-employment physical. For candidates with a commercial license, the Equipment Mechanic/Operator position is covered by the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Therefore, prior to final selection, those qualifying candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment/pre-duty drug test.  Additionally, Midpen employees with an active commercial driver’s license who perform safety sensitive duties are subject to quarterly random DOT drug and alcohol testing. 

Recruitment Timeline: (we are unable to accommodate individual schedules):

First interview (virtual): Wednesday, November 12, 2025

Skills Assessment (in-person): Tuesday, December 2, 2025

Final interview (in-person): Tuesday, December 9, 2025

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.

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 or via email at hr@openspace.org.

Put your passion for Open Space to work!

 

Overview:

Under general supervision, this role assists in the planning, design, and validation studies of the advanced water treatment facility (AWTF) and the distribution of product water. Key responsibilities encompass the development of water quality testing plans, validation of treatment processes, provision of technical support for design, piloting, operational planning, monitoring plans, ensuring regulatory compliance with DPR regulations, managing Reverse Osmosis Concentrate, and aiding in the integration of purified water into the current water supply and distribution system.

The Associate Engineer additionally acts as a technical liaison for the Water Supply Outreach team-evaluating outreach materials for precision and conducting tours of the Silicon Valley Advanced Water Purification Center for stakeholders and community organizations. The incumbent would also assist the R&PW Unit in its ongoing collaboration with the District Financial Planning & Management Services Division regarding State and Federal grant and loan applications. In addition, the incumbent would assist in the development of agreements for the PWSV. This position is essential for the implementation of the Pure Water project and ensuring that Valley Water achieves its long-term recycled water objectives while securing community backing and regulatory consent.

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:

• Supporting the planning, design, piloting, and validation studies of the advanced water treatment facility (AWTF) as well as the distribution of purified water, while also assisting in the formulation of water quality testing strategies, validating treatment processes, providing technical assistance for design, operational planning, and monitoring strategies, ensuring adherence to DPR regulations, managing Reverse Osmosis Concentrate, and facilitating the incorporation of purified water into the existing water supply and distribution network.
• Articulating the needs for various stages of PWSV such as Pilot/Demo phase and outlining a clear pathway to implementation through technical support for design reviews, engineering support, submittals, change orders, RFls, etc., and acting as a technical oversight during the design and construction phases for the Pilot and Demonstration Facilities and supporting the sampling, testing, data management, report preparations, etc.
• Supporting the R&PW Unit in enacting a robust communications plan for outreach and associated strategies for promoting water reuse and also technical tours at SVAWPC and continued proactive communication with key parties-consumers, elected officials, regulators, advocacy organizations, media outlets, utility staff- before, during, and after PWSV project development and continued leadership for the purified bottling and taste-testing efforts.
• Support the R&PW Unit in its continued coordination with the District Financial Planning & Management Services Division on State and Federal Grant and Loan applications.

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 or more years of professional engineering experience in technical evaluations, planning, design, regulations, assessment of water treatment processes/distribution systems, and water quality analysis relevant to water/wastewater and water recycling/reuse projects.
• Experience in preparing long-range planning studies, technical presentations, engineering cost analysis/reports, technical memorandums, master plans, and feasibility studies.
• Experience reviewing and contributing to engineering design documents, construction submittals, RFIs, and change orders.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• Analyze situations and scenarios and make decisions based on the information available. 
• Lead a technical engineering group/project.
• Facilitate meetings with internal and external stakeholders and reach a consensus.
• Act as a liaison with other agencies, consultants, or other project stakeholders.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both written and verbally and prepare concise and technical presentations.
• Utilizing knowledge and experience to build strong relationships and trust, both internally and externally. 
• Ability to coordinate across engineering, operations, regulatory, and outreach teams.
• Ability to serve as a technical liaison between internal departments and external agencies/consultants.
• Ability to support construction oversight and commissioning processes.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Water treatment processes. 
• Water resources and environmental engineering work.
• Water quality and water chemistry data analysis.
• Understanding of treatment process design, validation, and performance monitoring.
• Familiarity with water quality parameters, analytical testing methods, and laboratory QA/QC procedures.
• Knowledge of pilot and demonstration plant design and operations.

Ideal Training and Education:

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in civil engineering or a field related to assigned functional area(s).

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)

Recycled and Purified Water Unit (Position Code 443)
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 Policy Advisor for Land Use and Environment Group (LUEG) leads the Supervisor’s agenda in areas including the Tijuana River sewage crisis, environmental policy, transportation, housing, climate adaptation, agriculture, and regional planning. This person plays a key role in the Supervisor’s priorities for equitable development and environmental justice. This position reports to the Director of Policy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze and advise on policies related to planning, permitting, housing sustainability, and transportation.
• Draft policy proposals, board letters, environmental reviews, and public updates.
• Draft talking points and speeches that communicate the elected’s policies, priorities, and vision to constituents, stakeholders, and community leaders.
• Monitor the County’s Climate Action Plan, general plan amendments, and mobility investments.
• Conduct research and communicate policy ideas in support of the elected’s legislative agenda.
• Provide support to the elected at community events coordinating scheduling, logistics, and constituent engagement.
• Engage with academic researchers, environmental advocates, housing developers, and regional planning agencies.

Do you have a passion for protecting and preserving open space? Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) is seeking skilled and motivated Resource Management Specialists (RMS) I/II to join our team of resource management professionals working to protect and restore the natural environment within Midpen’s land in the Santa Cruz Mountains and the San Francisco Peninsula. While there is regular field work, the ideal candidates will also bring strong communication, project management, creativity, and collaboration skills to the position.

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 more than 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! 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.

About the Position:  Midpen has two vacancies for the position of RMS I/II.  The RMS I/II performs all aspects of wildlife management for the Natural Resources Department and in support of other Department capital improvement and routine maintenance work.  The selected individual will be responsible for performing, developing, executing and managing wildlife management projects and providing biological expertise and oversight for other District projects. Work will include project management for wildlife specific projects such as species surveys, habitat mapping, development of best management practices, biological monitoring, biological awareness trainings, permitting and biological reporting in support of new construction, routine maintenance and habitat restoration projects. The RMS I/II may perform these duties directly or participate in the hiring, selection, and oversight of consultants and contractors to perform natural resources related tasks. Successful performance of work requires significant knowledge of California wildlife species, especially special status species, biological protection measures, and a basic understanding of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and state and federal agency permitting.  More experienced candidates will have progressive educational and work experience in one or more of the following (or related) disciplines:  biology, ecology, ornithology, mammalogy, ichthyology, herpetology, zoology, fisheries, wildlife management, wildlife connectivity, etc.

Responsibilities

The Resource Management Specialist I performs most of the duties required of the position but at an entry-level to support more experienced Resource Management Specialists and the Natural Resources Program as a whole. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and are performed with increasing independence. At this level, the RMS I will assist with species surveys, monitoring, data collection, data entry, reporting, submission of samples, communication with the public, and care of monitoring equipment. The RMS I will assist with hiring, selection and management of consultants and contractors; and help to prepare detailed summaries and reports. The RMS I may assist project managers by providing valuable resource information and guidance, and serve as the liaison for subject matter experts. Work is typically assigned to small scale projects or to support larger scale projects that are managed by more experienced resource management staff.

The Resource Management Specialist II performs the full range of duties required to plan, develop, and coordinate species and habitat survey and monitoring, reporting, permitting and coordination. The RMS II is typically assigned to medium and large-scale projects and may manage these projects independently or be assigned to support larger interdisciplinary interdepartmental project teams as a natural resources subject matter expert. At this level staff receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies. The RMS II will lead hiring, selection, and management of consultants and contractors independently or as part of a larger team; write detailed technical summaries and reports for District staff, the Board, and the public; prepare grant applications; and design and lead field surveys with oversight from the Senior Resource Management Specialist.

The RMS I/II job description, can be found on our job description page at www.openspace.org.

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: The RMS I/II functions within a team environment in the Natural Resources Department at Midpen’s office in Los Altos, California and reports to the Sr. Resource Management Specialist. In addition to working in the office, the RMS I/II will often work in the field and hike through steep terrain and wildland areas. Fieldwork will require driving in remote areas on dirt roads, working in temperatures ranging from cold and blustery to hot and dry, with exposure to poison oak, ticks and other wildlife, and may require working early or late hours to survey for nocturnal or crepuscular wildlife. 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 and 9/80 work schedule for this position following onboarding and successfully meeting job performance expectations.

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. Additional information can be found in the Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual Section 4.13 Off-Duty Employment and Business Ownership.

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:

Resource Management Specialist I: equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in ecology, biology, wildlife, or related field.  One (1) year of experience in evaluating, surveying, or monitoring of natural resources systems, especially Californian, is highly desirable.

Resource Management Specialist II: equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in ecology, biology, wildlife, or related field and two (2) years of increasingly responsible experience in evaluating, surveying, or monitoring of natural resources systems, especially Californian.

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.

Application deadline is Sunday, October 26, 2025. 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:  (we are unable to accommodate individual schedules) 

First Interview (virtual): Thursday, November 13, 2025

Field & Written Exercise/ Second Interview (in person – location TBD): Wednesday, November 19, 2025

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.

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!

 

If you enjoy working hard in a beautiful outdoor environment with a group of like-minded people, we invite you to apply for the position of Fleet Services Specialist at Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen). Enjoy the outdoors while being responsible for the management of the District’s vehicle and equipment fleet used in the construction, maintenance, restoration and repair of public trails and rural roads in the foothills and ridges of the Santa Cruz Mountains.  The Fleet Services Specialist is a skilled and forward thinking professional with fleet management expertise, strong budgeting and administrative skills, regulatory compliance experience, and a passion for innovative fleet management solutions.  The anticipated start date for this position is December 2025.

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 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!  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.

About the Position: The Fleet Services Specialist will oversee the full cycle of our vehicle and equipment fleet, from budgeting and acquisition to maintenance, compliance, and replacement.  This position plays a critical role in ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable fleet operations by managing contracts, developing specifications, coordinating repairs, and leading asset management strategies.  The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise in fleet and equipment maintenance, proven experience with budgeting and program administration, skilled at ensuring regulatory compliance, and the ability to evaluate fleet needs and recommend cost effective solutions.

Strong communication, collaboration, interpersonal and problem-solving skills are essential for the position.

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)

Education & 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 an associate degree in fleet management, business administration, public administration, or a closely related field and four (4) years of full-time experience in administration of a fleet or equipment maintenance program or facility, including at least one year at a lead or supervisory level.

Licenses and Certifications:

• Possession of a valid California Driver’s License.

Work Environment:  This full time position is part of the Facilities & Fleet Department at Midpen’s Administrative Office in Los Altos, California. Midpen offers a hybrid office/telecommute work schedule for this position following successful onboarding, and may be eligible for a 9/80 schedule.  To meet service needs, three days of working on-site is required per week – set days are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in the office. The Fleet Services Specialist will often meet with Midpen staff in the district field offices.  Employees may work in the field and occasionally be exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, or road hazards. Must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

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.

Benefits: Midpen provides a competitive benefits package including health, life and disability insurance, CalPERS pension and paid leaves.

Apply online at CalOpps.org.

Application deadline is Sunday, October 19, 2025.  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.

Recruitment Timeline (We are unable to accommodate individual schedules):

First interview (virtual): Tuesday, October 28, 2025 

Final interview/Written Exercise (in-person): Tuesday, November 4, 2025

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.

 

The Policy Advisor for Public Safety is responsible for tracking and shaping policies related to law enforcement, emergency response services, probation, juvenile justice, and criminal justice reform. The Advisor works to ensure that public safety systems in District 1 are rehabilitative, transparent, equitable, and aligned with community needs. This position reports to the Director of Policy. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor board items and legislative actions related to the Sheriff’s Department, Probation, District Attorney, and emergency response.
• Draft board letters, amendments, talking points, and constituent updates.
• Draft talking points and speeches that communicate the elected’s policies, priorities, and vision to constituents, stakeholders, and community leaders
• Serve as liaison with community safety coalitions, violence prevention groups, and first responders.
• Provide support to the elected at community events coordinating scheduling, logistics, and constituent engagement.
• Conduct research and communicate policy ideas in support of the elected’s legislative agenda.
• Develop strategies that promote rehabilitation, accountability, de-escalation, diversion programs and reduce recidivism. 
• Track jail conditions, behavioral health service integration, and reentry programs.

Overview: 

The Resident Construction Inspector will be responsible for performing onsite construction inspection duties to ensure that construction work is performed in accordance with approved plans, specifications, and regulatory requirements, while also ensuring quality and safety. This role is critical to Valley Water’s capital projects in support of flood control, water storage, treatment plant, distribution and facility improvements with a primary focus on projects within the 10-Year Pipeline Inspection and Rehabilitation Program such as the West Pipeline Inspection and Rehabilitation Project- Phases 1&2 as well as the Almaden Valley Pipeline Inspection and Rehabilitation Project.

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:

• Facilitating collaboration and providing support for external contractors to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, methods, equipment, workmanship, and Valley Water policies and procedures.
• Monitoring work site safety programs to ensure compliance with Valley Water requirements.
• Coordinating field or laboratory materials testing for fluids, sand, aggregate, soils concrete, asphalt coatings, welding, and other materials to ensure compliance with project standards; document and provide results to contractor; maintain testing reports.
• Preparing detailed daily field reports, and project documentation; coordinating with contractors and project engineers; identifying and resolving field issues in a timely manner; and supporting effective communication across project teams.
• Act as Valley Water liaison with contractors, utility companies, homeowners, general public, government agencies (cities) and organizations construction facilities adjacent to Valley Water properties or facilities.
• Reviewing and assisting in the negotiation of monthly progress pay estimates (PPEs) including confirming quantities and work performed to date, ensuring accurate payment for completed work.

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) or more years of recent experience as a construction inspector on public works projects in a lead role. 
• Experience in inspecting job sites related to welding inspection,  flood control, flood protection, pipelines, water resources, and/or at water treatment plants. 
• Experience with monitoring environmental compliance including the storm water pollution prevention program.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• Prepare a variety of complex statistical reports and documentation.
• Apply independent judgment to troubleshoot and solve construction-related problems.
• Make sound, independent decisions within established policy and procedural guidelines.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Methods and techniques of mechanical installation including process piping, pumps, valves, and other appurtenances.
• Methods and techniques of electrical installation including circuitry, lighting, and related controls.
• Construction contract administration principles and practices.
• Hazardous material regulations and procedures as they pertain to construction projects and District facilities.
• Operational characteristics of a variety of specialized construction inspection equipment, tools, and apparatus such as air monitors and noise monitors.
• Methods and techniques of construction code enforcement.
• Confined space regulations and procedures as they pertain to construction projects and District facilities.
• Methods, materials, equipment, and techniques used in the construction of flood control and water storage and distribution facilities.
• Local, state, and national construction codes such as the American Society for Testing and Materials International (ASTM) standards.
• Storm water pollution prevention program rules and regulations including the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).

Ideal Training and Education:

Equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by vocational or college coursework in project management or construction trades.

 

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.

• Must be able to obtain the appropriate confined space certification offered by Valley Water.

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

Inspection Services Unit (Position Code 358)
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 requires the individual to be onsite and is typically not a teleworking position.

Overview:

The Assistant Biologists will function as entry-level field biologists in Valley Water’s Watershed Planning and Stewardship Division’s Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Unit. The primary area of focus is fisheries biology, but experience in wildlife biology is also beneficial for the position. This position will perform ecological data collection associated with the many, multifaceted projects and programs that are managed or supported by the Unit. The Unit is responsible for managing long-term mitigation monitoring programs; ecology-oriented, Safe Clean Water Programs; land management and easement monitoring for mitigation lands; providing biological subject matter expertise to support over 30 capital projects and long range planning programs; and managing various aspects of the Fisheries and Aquatic Habitat Collaborative Effort (FAHCE). Unit staff provide ecological and biological expertise supporting Valley Water activities, projects, and programs to effectively manage natural resources, stewardship, and comply with environmental laws and regulations. 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 and stewardship.

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:

• Fisheries monitoring for the Fisheries and Aquatic Habitat Collaborative Effort (FAHCE) and Anderson Dam Seismic Retrofit Project (ADSRP).
• Fisheries fieldwork such as seining, trapping, anadromous fish spawning surveys, passage and habitat assessments, electrofishing (backpack and boat), PIT tagging and antenna design, and servicing/downloading other passive counting devices.
• Biological monitoring for Mitigation and Monitoring Projects.
• Biological fieldwork for Safe, Clean Water.
• Wildlife fieldwork such as general habitat assessments, nesting bird surveys, special-status species surveys, permit compliance, and biological construction monitoring.
• Habitat mapping/monitoring, habitat assessments, conservation easement monitoring.
• Data analysis and reporting.
• Planning, design, and construction biological support for Watershed/Water Utility Capital Projects.
• Data entry/analysis and equipment maintenance/management.

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:

• At least one year of experience (two or more years preferred) of fisheries and wildlife fieldwork experience.
• Experience working with the local flora and fauna of Santa Clara County.
• GIS, database, and technical report writing experience.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• 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 (CDFW), US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), 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 CEQA and 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 District’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.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Best Management Practices (BMPs), principles, and techniques commonly used in field biology, including the planning, organizing, conducting, and managing of biological investigations and surveys.
• Best Management Practices (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 District operations, programs, and activities.
• A variety of biological field equipment 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 the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
• Common desktop applications and software.
• Authorities, methods, and techniques of scientific research, statistics, analysis, and reporting used in the discipline of biology.

Ideal Training and Education:

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

• 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.

 

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)

Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Unit (Position Code 1116)
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 Multimedia Designer is responsible for shaping the visual identity and public-facing content of the Office of Supervisor Paloma Aguirre. This creative role includes capturing and producing photos and videos, managing graphic design, and overseeing the visual design and functionality of the Supervisor’s website and digital communications. The ideal candidate has strong creative and technical skills and is committed to community-centered storytelling. This position reports to the Director of Communications. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, capture, and edit photography and video content for events, announcements, and social media.
• Design flyers, infographics, reports, and branded materials for public distribution.
• Maintain and update the website's visual layout, graphic assets, and visual consistency.
• Collaborate with the Communications Director and Digital Communications Specialist to ensure brand alignment across platforms.
• Archive and catalog media content for future use.
• Assist with livestreaming, lighting, audio, and other media production tasks at press conferences and events.
• Assist with rapid-response visual content during breaking news, emergencies, or policy rollouts.
• Create culturally competent and community-informed visual content that reflects the diversity of the district.

The Policy Advisor for Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) leads on all matters related to the County’s social services, public health, behavioral health, and child and senior welfare programs. This individual tracks policies, advocates for equitable investments in District 1, and helps design board actions that enhance public health, general welfare, and access to medical care and social support systems. This position reports to the Director of Policy.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze HHSA initiatives and county programs related to the safety net, public health, behavioral health, homeless service, housing development, child welfare, and services for seniors and people with disabilities.
• Draft policy memos, board letters, and recommendations to address systemic inequities.
• Draft talking points and speeches that communicate the elected’s policies, priorities, and vision to constituents, stakeholders, and community leaders.
• Serve as a liaison to County departments, community-based organizations, and health justice advocates.
• Conduct research and communicate policy ideas in support of the elected’s legislative agenda.
• Coordinate with the Director of Community Engagement to elevate on-the-ground feedback.
• Provide support to the elected at community events coordinating scheduling, logistics, and constituent engagement.
• Track state and federal funding streams relevant to HHSA priorities.