Join our team and help support one of the most essential public services in our community—delivering safe, reliable drinking water.
As a Waterworks Operator I, II, or III, you will play a key role in maintaining, operating, and improving the City’s water distribution system.
Whether you are beginning your career in the water industry or bringing advanced technical and leadership experience, we offer opportunities to grow, develop new skills, and contribute to the protection of public health.
POSITION DETAILS:
- Positions may be filled at any level depending upon qualifications
- Salary range:
- Operator I: $28.51 to $36.48 hourly
- Operator II: $31.41 to $40.13 hourly
- Operator III: $35.51 to $45.33 hourly
- 3% Cost of Living Adjustment increase effective 06/29/26
- Generally, salary placement is at the beginning of the salary range.
- Advanced placement may be granted depending on related education and experience.
- Full-time regular position
- 9/80 work schedule with alternating Fridays off
- May require occasional work on weekends, evenings, and holidays.
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:
- Formal or informal education or training which ensures the ability to read and write at a level necessary for successful job performance.
Experience:
- Operator I - One year of increasingly responsible experience repairing and maintaining water distribution systems and equipment.
- Operator II - Two years of increasingly responsible experience repairing and maintaining water distribution systems and equipment.
- Operator III - Three years of increasingly responsible experience repairing and maintaining water distribution systems and equipment.
License or Certificate:
All Positions: Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid Class A driver’s license within one year of employment.
- Operator I - Possession of, and ability to maintain, certification as Water Distribution Operator Grade D1.
- Operator II - Possession of, and ability to maintain, certification as Water Distribution Operator Grade D2.
- Operator III - Possession of, and ability to maintain, certification as Water Distribution Operator Grade D3.
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.
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JOB DESCRIPTION:
Job Description: Waterworks Operator I/II/III
IDEAL CANDIDATE:
The Ideal Candidate will possess the following skills:
- Knowledge of water distribution systems, operating procedures, maintenance practices, troubleshooting, and regulatory compliance.
- Ability to perform system inspections, routine maintenance, and operational adjustments to ensure water quality and reliability.
- Dependable, responsive, and committed to safe work practices and public health protection.
- Takes ownership of assignments, follows through consistently, and responds effectively to emergencies.
- Adapts well to changing conditions, priorities, and work environments.
- Works well with crew members, supervisors, and other departments.
- Communicates clearly and professionally with coworkers and the public.
- As experience increases:
- provides guidance and mentorship to junior staff and supports a positive, professional work environment.
- performs complex diagnostics, makes sound operational decisions, and works with minimal supervision.
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: Fully covered dental (Delta Dental) and vision (VSP) plans
- Family Coverage: Dental and vision coverage is fully paid for all eligible dependents.
- 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 for individuals enrolled in CalPERS prior to 1/1/2013)
- 2% @ 62 formula for “New” members (three year average final compensation for individuals enrolled in CalPERS after 1/1/2013)
- 4th Level Survivor Benefit included
- Deferred Compensation:
- 401(k) and 457 plans with Roth options
- City matches up to $75 per paycheck to 457
- City contribution of $30 per paycheck to 457
- Note: The City does not participate in Social Security; no FICA deduction except Medicare hospital insurance
Paid Leave & Holidays
- Annual Leave (AL):
- 5.2 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 are reviewed on a rolling basis. Official review after two weeks. This recruitment may close at any time or when 50 applications are received, whichever occurs first. 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.
