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Valley Water's 2026 Summer Internship

Applications are now open on our Careers page. We’re excited to offer 30+ internship opportunities this year. Applicants may apply to more than one position; however, responses to supplemental questions should be tailored to each specific internship.

Valley Water's 2026 College Summer Internship Program offers students nationwide a chance to gain practical experience while exploring careers in the water industry. Each intern will have a Valley Water staff mentor and will receive professional development training, participate in networking events, and prepare a capstone presentation at the end of the program. Although some positions in the program will follow a hybrid format, with a mix of in-office and remote work based on business needs, other roles may require interns to work on-site full-time in a lab, office, or field setting, as specified in the job postings.

Intern compensation is $28.27 per hour.

2026 Summer Internship Business Areas:

• Accounting, Finance, Budgeting
• Communications (Graphic Design)
• Construction Contract & Support
• Electrician
• Engineering (Civil, Construction, Water Resources, Restoration, Software)
• Environmental Health & Safety
• Environmental Planning & Policy
• Government Relations
• Grants & Research
• Human Resources (HRIS)
• Information Technology (IT) - Software Services & Division Deputy's Office
• Laboratory Services (Chemistry/Microbiology/Biology)
• Office of the CEO
• Project Management - Office of Office of Resiliency, Engagement, & Development Initiatives (REDI)
• Water Conservation

For eligibility, program dates, a recruitment timeline, and FAQs please see our external page: https://www.valleywater.org/paid-summer-internships

The Department:
The Recreation Division provides classes and programs for all ages and abilities. We aim to promote the use of safe, clean, and attractive facilities for enjoyment and quality of life for all ages and abilities. 

The Position:
The Recreation Specialist is the highest classification in the Recreation Leader series.  An incumbent in this class possesses technical expertise in a specialty such as cultural arts, physical fitness, drama, older adults, athletics, therapeutics, music, pre school, day camp, teen activities, and youth sports and is responsible for the planning, development, and supervision of a specialized activity phase of recreation programs .  With general policy and departmental philosophy guidance from a supervisor, an incumbent exercises sound independent judgment in the performance of duties. The Recreation Specialist is distinguished from the Recreation Instructor in that the former has an emphasis on developing and supervising large groups of children in specialized recreation activities while the latter is responsible for developing class curriculum and teaching classroom activities.

As an as-needed employee, this is an "at-will" position and there is no guarantee of hours. Hours are limited to 999 in a fiscal year or 960 hours in a fiscal year for retired CalPERS annuitants.

 

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESDIES 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 GUARENTEE 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. 

 

Typical Duties

Each position in this classification may not include all the duties listed below, nor do the examples cover all duties that may be performed.
Under direction:
• Plans, initiates, organizes, and supervises an extensive program of recreation activities in an area of expertise
• Investigates, recommends, demonstrates, and explains techniques, procedures, materials, equipment and supplies used in the special activity program
• Prepares program instructions and materials ; develops projects for inclusion in the community wide recreation program
• Receives and reviews reports, suggestions, and complaints from staff and program participants
• Maintains records and accounts of attendance, inventory, financial charges and receipts, personnel, special events, accidents, and other matters requiring systematic recording
• May supervise and train lower-level personnel in the activities comprising the specialty
• Performs other related duties as assigned

 

Minimum Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Minimum Requirements
• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED; and
• One thousand (1000) hours of experience in recreation leadership at the level of Recreation Leader III in general recreation programs such as day camp, sports, teens, older adults, and theater; and
• Must be at least 18 years of age at time of application

Possible Substitutions
• Completion of sixty (60) semester units of coursework, or equivalent, from an accredited college or university, preferably with an emphasis in Recreation, Physical Education, or a related field may be substituted for the required experience

LICENSES AND/OR CERTIFICATES
Possession of the following is desirable:
• A valid California Class C driver's license
• A valid American Red Cross First Aid certificate

OTHER REQUIREMENTS
• As a condition of employment, incumbents will be required to be fingerprinted in accordance with State of California law
• Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment

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.

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.  

 

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Considerable knowledge of:
• The technical fundamentals of a specialized recreation activity such as athletics, cultural arts, or music
Considerable ability to:
• Plan, organize, and lead a special recreation activity
• Analyze and adjust the special activity to suit participant recreation needs
•  Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, including children
• Work in a team-based environment and achieve common goals
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
Physical ability to: 
• Assist participants in and out of wheelchairs
• Restrain and/or lift program participants

Additional Information:
You must answer all job-specific questions in order to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applications must be filled out completely (i.e. do not write “see resume or personnel file.”)  To receive consideration for the screening process, candidates must submit a 1) Cover Letter that states relevant experience as a Recreation Specialist, 2) Resume, and 3) Supplemental Questions. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. This position is continuous or open until filled: Applications will be reviewed on a weekly basis for consideration to the position.   If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.
 
The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov.

Yuba Water Agency is seeking a skilled, detail-driven Construction Inspector II to support major infrastructure projects that protect communities, enhance water reliability, and strengthen the region’s long-term resilience. This role offers the opportunity to work on high-impact public works—from dam safety improvements to hydropower facilities, and recreation facilities—while contributing to one of California’s most forward-thinking water agencies.

The Construction Inspector II plays a vital part in ensuring that Yuba Water Agency’s capital projects are built safely, accurately, and in full compliance with plans, specifications, and regulatory requirements. This position conducts daily field inspections, documents construction progress, verifies contractor work, and collaborates closely with engineers, project managers, and external partners. The work is hands-on, technical, and essential to delivering high-quality infrastructure that serves the people of Yuba County.
Some key initiatives you’ll work on:

• Dam Safety and Reliability Project                                                                                                          Inspection of spillway improvements, embankment work, instrumentation installations, and other critical dam-related construction.
• Hydropower Facility Upgrades                                                                                                               Oversight of mechanical, electrical, and civil construction activities supporting power generation assets.
• Flood Risk Reduction Infrastructure                                                                                                      Inspection of flood control structures, and related public safety projects.
• Capital Improvement Program Deliver                                                                                                   Ensuring contractors meet quality, schedule, and compliance expectations across a diverse portfolio of infrastructure investments.

Recruitment Timeline
The final date to apply is March 2, 2026. Resume and cover letter required with application. Resumes should reflect years and months of positions held.

Preliminary screening interviews, with the most qualified applicants, will be conducted the week of March 16th. Next steps which may include but are not limited to testing and/or panel interviews, will be determined by the number of qualified applicants received and will be conducted on March 30th.  In addition, the finalists will be asked to do a technical discussion followed by a site tour tentatively scheduled for April 13th and April 16th.

Recruitment Contact
Contact phone:
(530) 649-2536
Laken Schattner, HR Specialist
lschattner@yubawater.org
 

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). 

The Department: 

Silicon Valley Power (SVP) currently provides over 40 percent of Santa Clara’s electricity from carbon-free renewable resources. In addition to using green energy from large-scale wind, solar, geothermal and hydroelectric projects outside of the area, SVP employs innovative ways to locally produce electricity by capturing and burning methane gas from a closed city landfill and using power from solar generating systems on city-owned garages and vacant, unusable land. It is the mission of SVP to be a progressive, service-oriented utility, offering reliable, competitively priced services for the benefit of Santa Clara and its customers. Being competitive in the marketplace with a continuous focus on customer service, SVP can provide economic value to the City of Santa Clara and its customers while maintaining low residential rates and offering competitive rates for all customers.

The Position: 

Under direct supervision, the Assistant Electric Utility Engineer performs a variety of entry-level professional electric utility engineering field and office work in Electric system planning, electric system design, construction and/or maintenance programs.  SVP invites applications from dynamic and innovative qualified candidates for an entry level engineering position. Assistant Electric utility engineer will be part engineering team to conduct design, establish standards and implement construction projects. Incumbents may be assigned to work in any division in the Electric Department reporting to a Principal, Senior Electric Utility Engineer, Electric Utility Engineer Division Manager, Assistant Director or Director.

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple positions in this, or other divisions/departments, if a vacant position becomes available. If you're 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. 

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) Cover Letter and 2) Resume. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

*Candidates that graduated in December 2025 or anticipate graduation in June 2026 are encouraged to apply.  Proof of graduation will be required prior to any appointment in the position.*

Application packets may be submitted online through the “Apply Now” feature on the job announcement at www.santaclaraca.gov. This position is open until filled: Applications will be reviewed on a bi-weekly basis for consideration to the position.   If you are interested in applying you are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, before the position is closed.

THIS RECRUITMENT MAY BE USED TO FILL MULTIPLE POSITIONS IN THIS, OR OTHER DIVISIONS OR DEPARTMENTS BESIDES THE POSITIONS LISTED ABOVE.  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 salary range for this position is $145,678.08 – $185,797.44.   This position may be filled at or near the minimum of the salary range. 

Minimum Qualifications:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Education/Experience Requirements: 

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with: 
  • A Bachelor's Degree in Electrical, Mechanical or Civil Engineering from a college or university that is accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology (ABET).

               OR

• • Possession of a State of California Engineer-In-Training (E.I.T.) Certificate and at least 1 year of experience in electrical or mechanical engineering office and/or field work, and Experience using AutoCAD and Microsoft Office (i.e., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Mathlab).

Acceptable Substitution: 

None

License/Certifications: 

Possession of a valid California Class C driver's license is required at time of appointment and for the duration of employment.

Desirable Qualifications: 

• Registration as an Electrical, Mechanical or Civil Engineer in the State of California.
• Experience using ESRI based Geographic Information System (GIS).

Other Requirements:  

• Must be able to perform all of the essential functions of the job assignment.
• May be required to work shifts, weekends, and odd and unusual hours in the performance of duties and emergency situations.

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

Candidates must attain a passing score on each phase of the examination process to qualify for the Eligible List. A department interview may be required prior to appointment.

Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of Santa Clara will not sponsor, represent, or sign documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application. 

VETERAN’S PREFERENCE POINTS: This position qualifies for Veteran’s Preference Points.  Applicants who have separated from service (Active Duty Status) must submit proof of honorable discharge (Form DD214) with their application at time of filing or will be ineligible to have points added to their final score.

The City of Santa Clara is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of Santa Clara is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at (408) 615-2080 or HumanResources@santaclaraca.gov.

Please click on the Job PDF to view the announcement.

Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician I: $97,635.20 - $124,924.80 Annually
Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician II: $107,723.20 - $137,820.80 Annually

Overview:

The Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician I/II will perform maintenance and repair functions on industrial equipment used in water treatment, recycled water, water purification plants, pumping stations, and hydroelectric plants. This position will also work on related mechanical equipment components used for water treatment, storage, distribution, and flood control. They will be required to perform maintenance and repair duties on water conduits and equipment. As well as perform a variety of tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility. This position will be assigned to work at one of Valley Water’s three water treatment plants in Santa Clara County and can be assigned to work rotating on-call weekends after approximately 1-2 years.

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:

• Perform preventive maintenance on treatment plant and pipeline facilities through methods such as fluid and filter changes; confer with operations staff to solve problems and determine needs; maintain water conduits and equipment including vacuum breakers, air releases, and water valves; perform confined space related duties.
• Read and interpret plans and specifications; estimate labor and materials for proposed work, perform work in accordance with these documents; make preliminary sketches of work to be performed or completed; locate, examine, clarify, identify, record and mark locations of creeks, pipelines, telemetry, test cables, and underground cables.
• Diagnose mechanical problems; recommend preventative and corrective repair; make estimates of labor, materials, and supplies required to complete assigned work; request required materials. Diagnose and repair meter pumps, calibrators, flocculation, and filtration methods through vibration analysis and temperature reading and other inspection techniques; confer with operations and engineering staff to solve problems and determine needs.
• Operate a variety of hand tools and power equipment including welding equipment, lathes, drill presses, sanders, trucks, forklifts, boom lift, scissor lifts, and overhead cranes.
• Maintain records of work performed; enter and retrieve data from a Computerized Maintenance system (CMMS); ensure proper completion of reports including confined entry documentation. 

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 - One (1) years of experience with the maintenance of mechanical equipment and components. 

Level II - One (1) year of post-apprenticeship experience in the maintenance of mechanical equipment and components. In lieu of completing an apprenticeship, a candidate should possess four (4) years of journey-level experience in the maintenance of mechanical equipment and components.

Ideal Skills and Abilities: 

Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician I: 

• Learn the methods and techniques involved in the maintenance and repair of water treatment and distribution and systems including pumps, valves, gauges, and chemical feeds. 
• Learn to operate a variety of mechanical maintenance equipment. 
• Learn to read, interpret, and work from plans, drawings, and specifications. 
• Learn to estimate small mechanical jobs.
• Learn occupational hazards and standard safety practices including Cal OSHA practices. 
• Learn procedures to maintain records of work performed. 
• Learn to diagnose operational problems in mechanical equipment and recommend corrective action. 
• Learn to prepare clear and concise reports. 
• Understand and follow verbal and written instructions. 
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. 
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. 

Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician II: 

In addition to the qualifications for a Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician I: 

• Operate a variety of mechanical maintenance equipment. 
• Read, interpret, and work from plans, drawings, and specifications. 
• Procedures to maintain records of work performed. 
• Diagnose operational problems in mechanical equipment and recommend corrective action. 
• Perform the most complex maintenance and repair functions on District water treatment and distribution systems. 
• Perform mechanical maintenance on pipelines, equipment in pumping stations, hydroelectric plants, and water treatment plants. 
• Estimate labor and materials required to correct mechanical problems. 
• Prepare clear and concise reports. 
• Use common desktop applications and software. 

Ideal Knowledge: 

Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician I:

• Operations, services, and activities of a mechanical maintenance program. 
• Operational characteristics of mechanical maintenance equipment and tools. 
• Operational methods and techniques associated with water treatment process.
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices including Cal OSHA practices. 
• Mathematical principles. 
• Common desktop applications and software. 

Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician II: 

In addition to the qualifications for a Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician I: 

• Methods and techniques involved in the maintenance and repair of water treatment and distribution and systems including pumps, valves, gauges, and chemical feeds. 
• Operations, services, and activities of a mechanical maintenance program. 
• Operational characteristics of mechanical maintenance equipment and tools. 
• Operational methods and techniques associated with water treatment process. 
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices including Cal OSHA practices. 

Ideal Training and Education: 

Must have equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade. 

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.

Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician I:

Possession of a D-1 Water Distribution Operator certification issued by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), Department of Drinking Water (DDW) within 18 months of appointment.

Plant/Pipeline Mechanical Technician II:

Possession of a D-2 Water Distribution Operator certification issued by the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), Department of Drinking Water (DDW) within 24 months of appointment.

This position requires the individual to be onsite and is typically not a teleworking position.

Please click on the Job PDF to view the announcement.

The department is seeking to fill one (1) full-time Senior Power Resources Specialist position to support the Power Resources Division. This role reports to a Principal Power Resources Specialist and is part of a dynamic, fast-paced team responsible for procuring hundreds of megawatts of renewable energy projects, playing a key role in advancing the City’s clean energy goals.

The ideal candidate will have a knowledge of California energy markets and experience working with a variety of market participants, including renewable energy and storage developers, large energy trading firms, independent power producers, investor owned and municipal utilities, and CCAs. The ideal candidate should have strong analytical and negotiation skills, experience in power trading and origination, or renewable energy development and contract management.

For more information about this opportunity, please visit the recruitment brochure via this link.

HOW TO APPLY:

To apply online, click here.

The position will remain open until filled, with the first review of applications on March 2, 2026. To be considered, candidates must submit their application online at s.kirby@pipermaddox.com, or at pipermaddox.com along with the following items: 

- A cover letter
- A resume
- List of at least three (3) work-related references (who will not be contacted without prior notice) 

Applications will be screened in relation to the criteria outlined in this brochure. Candidates deemed to have the most relevant qualifications will be invited to proceed in the selection process. Additional phases of the selection process will consist of one or more interviews. A final selection will be made upon completion of comprehensive reference and background checks.

Questions about this recruitment can be directed to:

Consultant Recruiter Name – Sam Kirby 
Consulting Agency Name - Piper Maddox 
Phone: +1 424 644 6163 
Email: s.kirby@pipermaddox.com

 

Additional Information:

Employment Eligibility:  Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of San Jose will NOT sponsor, represent or sign any documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1-B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.  

You must answer all job-specific questions to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applicants are expected to write their own essays/responses.  

Please note that applications are currently not accepted through CalOpps or any other third party job board application system.

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple positions in this, or other divisions or departments. 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.

Please allow adequate time to complete the application and submit before the deadline or the system may not save your application.  If your online application was successfully submitted, you will receive an automatic confirmation email to the email address you provided.  IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE THE CONFIRMATION, please email CityCareers@sanjoseca.gov and we will research the status of your application. 

AI and the Hiring Process

We recognize that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming part of daily life and can be a valuable tool for learning, research, and professional growth. We encourage candidates to use AI responsibly as a support in preparing application materials, live assessments, and interviews. However, we value authenticity, accuracy and truthfulness. Application responses and interview answers must reflect your own knowledge, skills, and experiences. While AI can supplement preparation, it cannot replace the originality and judgment we look for in our employees. This ensures fairness, transparency, and equity for all applicants in the hiring process. 

Overview:

Accountant II position plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of departmental financial operations. By performing core accounting functions-such as recording journal entries, reconciling accounts, processing P-Card reports, and preparing financial schedules-the position ensures compliance with policies, supports transparent reporting, and enables informed decision-making. Their work directly supports the Quarterly Board of Directors' Expense Report and the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, both essential for governance and external accountability.

Additionally, the Accountant II strengthens operational stability by assisting with month-end close, preparing audit schedules, and serving as backup to the Senior Accountant, ensuring continuity of the General Ledger function. Through technical assistance and training, they build team capacity and resilience, helping the department meet deadlines, reduce risk, and achieve its financial management goals.

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:

• Perform a wide range of professional accounting duties, including analyzing and maintaining accounting records, auditing check payments, and preparing financial reports. Record monthly and annual journal entries for benefit and cost allocations, revenue and expense accruals, and reclassifications. Reconcile asset and liability accounts, as well as subsidiary transactions and reports, to the Infor General Ledger.
• Process employee Purchasing Card (P-Card) expense reports by reviewing transactions for accuracy, ensuring receipts and documentation are complete, checking for proper coding of expenses, compliance with policies and spending limits, reconciling charges, and checking for supervisor approvals and authorization before expenses are recorded. Process claims and fees reimbursements for the Board of Directors. Provide assistance to P-Card users of Infor XM.
• Prepare diverse financial summaries, schedules, footnote disclosures, and reports, ensuring data accuracy and completeness. Examples include the Quarterly Board of Directors' Expense Report and supporting schedules and footnote disclosures for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR).
• Enter the Board of Directors' timesheets biweekly. 
• Assist in recording collections and cash receipts.
• Assist with the fiscal period/month-end close procedures to identify inconsistencies, errors, or unusual activities. Prepares audit schedules and responds to audit inquiries.

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 accounting experience involving transactions analysis, journal entry preparation,  maintenance of accounting records, account reconciliation, and preparation of financial reports.

Ideal Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to independently perform the full range of professional accounting functions.
• Ability to prepare a variety of clear and concise financial summaries and accounting reports.
• Ability to proficiently use Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and web-based programs or equivalent.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service through all levels of the organization and external parties.

Ideal Knowledge:

• Knowledge of governmental accounting and financial management practices in compliance with the Governmental Accounting Standards Board. 
• Knowledge of principles and practices of financial analysis and auditing.
• Knowledge of automated financial systems such as Infor, PeopleSoft, SAP or equivalent.

Ideal Training and Education:

Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in accounting or a related field.

Or

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.

 

This position is eligible for a hybrid telework schedule, typically working 40% remote and 60% onsite, after completion of the probationary period (one year).