Join a team that keeps our community moving!
The City of Simi Valley is seeking a dynamic and motivated Plant Operations Manager to lead the daily operations of our wastewater treatment facility. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled wastewater professional who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, enjoys solving complex challenges, and is passionate about delivering safe, reliable, and high‑quality services to the public.
If you’re a proactive leader who’s ready to make an impact and drive innovation, we want to meet you.
POSITION DETAILS:
- Salary range: $103,580.00 - $133,093.00 annually with Excellent Benefits
- 3% Cost of Living adjustment increase effective 6/29/26
- Generally, salary placement is at the beginning of the salary range.
- Advanced placement may be granted depending on related education and experience.
- Regular, Full-Time position
- Work schedule: 9/80 with alternating Friday off
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Education/Training:
- Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in chemistry, biology, environmental sciences or a related field.
Experience:
- Four years of responsible wastewater treatment plant operations experience including one year of administrative and/or lead supervisory experience. One year of experience with Biological Nutrient Removal system is desirable.
License or Certificate:
- Possession of Water Quality Control Operator Grade V certificate.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Job Description: Plant Operations Manager
WHY SIMI VALLEY?
Looking for a thriving community with amazing career opportunities and a high quality of life? Simi Valley has it all! From scenic landscapes to a welcoming atmosphere, it's the perfect place to live and work.
CLICK HERE to check out our exclusive video to see what makes Simi Valley so special—whether you're looking for a rewarding career or just an incredible place to call home, you won’t want to miss it!
IDEAL CANDIDATE:
The ideal candidate will possess the following skills:
- Extensive hands-on experience in wastewater treatment plant operations, including Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) processes.
- Strong technical knowledge and the ability to interpret operational and laboratory data to maintain consistent regulatory compliance.
- Excel in supervising, training, motivating, and evaluating staff while fostering a positive, safety-focused work environment.
- Skilled in coordinating daily plant operations, troubleshooting process issues, and implementing improvements that enhance efficiency and reliability.
- Experienced in budget development, chemical procurement, contract management, and resource planning.
- Supports capital improvement projects by collaborating with engineers, contractors, and other City divisions.
- Communicates clearly and professionally, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences, regulatory agencies, and internal stakeholders.
- Sound judgment, adaptability, and calm decision-making during operational challenges or emergencies.
- Maintains strong working relationships with other divisions, agencies, and the public.
- Stays current with industry trends, regulatory changes, and innovations in wastewater treatment.
- Approaches work with a proactive, collaborative, and solutions-oriented mindset, supporting the City’s mission to provide safe, compliant, and high-quality wastewater treatment services.
- Possession of a Water Quality Control Operator Grade V certificate.
BENEFITS:
We’re proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that supports your health, financial well-being, and professional growth—because we believe taking care of our team is essential to serving our community.
Health & Wellness
- Medical Coverage: 100% City-paid premiums for most plans, including family coverage
- Dental & Vision: City contribution up to $100/month for dental (Delta Dental) and $19.80/month for vision (VSP)
- Family coverage costs as low as $0–$31.10/month for dental and $2.66/month for vision, depending on plan
- Prescription Drug Plan: Access to major retail and mail-order options
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Pre-tax savings for health and dependent care expenses
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Up to 8 free confidential consultations for employees and household members
Retirement & Financial Planning
- CalPERS Pension:
- 2% @ 55 formula for Classic members (single highest year final compensation)
- 2% @ 62 formula for New members (three year average final compensation)
- 4th Level Survivor Benefit included
- Deferred Compensation:
- 401(k) and 457 plans with Roth options
- City matches up to $200/month to 401(k)
- Retirement Health Savings:
- $200/month City contribution for retiree medical reimbursement
- Note: The City does not participate in Social Security; no FICA deduction except Medicare hospital insurance
Paid Leave & Holidays
- Annual Leave (AL):
- 5.6 weeks/year to start (vacation + sick combined)
- Increases at 5 and 10 years of service
- Cash-out option available after one year
- Holidays:
- 11 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday annually
Professional Development
Insurance Coverage
- Life Insurance:
- $101,000 employee coverage fully covered
- $5,000 dependent coverage fully covered
- Optional AFLAC Plans:
- Accident, cancer, hospital, and critical care coverage available
We also host a full calendar of employee appreciation events and activities to celebrate the incredible work our team does year-round.
This information is intended to give an overview of the benefits available to City employees. It is not intended to be a contract (expressed or implied), nor is it intended to otherwise create any legally enforceable obligations on the part of the City, its agents or its employees.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
Click apply and attach a current resume! You only need to complete the boxes on the application marked with a star/asterisk (*) and the supplemental questionnaire. The most qualified candidates will be invited to the next steps in our hiring process.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Recruitment is Open Until Filled or when 50 applications are received, whichever occurs first. First official review of applications after 2 weeks. Candidates who possess the best combination of qualifications will be invited by e-mail to the next steps in our process.
SELECTION PROCESS:
- Applications will be evaluated based on education, training, and experience as it relates to the position
- Candidates who possess the best combination of qualifications will be evaluated by their responses to the supplemental questions. During the assessment process, the rater(s) will not have access to your name, application or resume. You are solely evaluated on your supplemental responses, so please be detailed as possible.
- The eligibility list for hire will be determined by the supplemental questions.
- Additional testing such a written, oral panel interviews, and department level interviews may occur.
- Applicants seeking Veteran’s Preference must submit form DD214 with application.
*ALL OFFERS OF EMPLOYMENT ARE CONTINGENT UPON THE FOLLOWING:
- Passing a background investigation
- Passing a pre-employment physical and/or drug screen, if applicable
- Providing (3) professional references, including (1) direct supervisor
- Providing copies of degree(s), training certifications/licenses listed on application/resume
- 5-year Verification of employment
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION:
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance in the selection process, please notify the Human Resources Division, in writing.
City of Simi Valley is an Equal Opportunity Employer Encouraging Workforce Diversity.
