Search Jobs

WASTEWATER OPERATOR II

A completed online employment application and questionnaire is REQUIRED

Incomplete applications will NOT be accepted.  

You must enter all relevant work history in to this application system, resumes will NOT be considered in lieu of the required employment application information.

Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. 

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

Under general supervision (Wastewater Operator II), performs a variety of skilled and semi-skilled tasks in the maintenance and operation of the City's sanitary sewer system and wastewater treatment plant.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the full journey level class within the Wastewater Operator series. This class is distinguished from the Wastewater Operator I by the assignment of the full range of duties assigned. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and they are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the I level.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

The following duties are typical for this classification. Incumbents may not perform all of the listed duties and/or may be required to perform additional or different duties from those set forth below to address business needs and changing business practices.

1. Operate and adjust controls on treatment plant equipment and machinery, such as valves, pumps and motors.

2. Grease and clean plant equipment; read and interpret meters and gauges; regulate plant effluent.

3. Monitor, repair, and maintain wastewater system lift stations; remove debris; disassemble and clean pumps; perform minor repairs when necessary.

4. Respond to emergency calls as needed; locate problems and operate sewer cleaning equipment to clear stoppages. 

5. Collect samples and perform various lab tests.

6. Inspect and make repairs to plant equipment.

7. Perform general plant maintenance work such as sweeping, cleaning, sanding and painting of equipment and facilities.

8. Assist in operating video inspection system.

9. Perform general grounds maintenance work.

10. Rod sanitary sewers; install and repair sanitary sewer laterals and trunk lines.

11. Enter and work in permitted confined spaces and underground trenches.

12. Locate, mark and notify sewer lines per USA (underground service alert) requirements.

13. Observe and enforce safety precautions. 

14. May temporarily be assigned to work with other City departments as needed.

15. Operate trucks, tractors and other motorized equipment of comparable size and complexity.

16. Perform related duties as required. 

Education/Training:
Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade.

Experience:
Two years experience performing duties at a level comparable to a Wastewater Operator I with the City of Ceres while in possession of a Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate.

License or Certificate:
Possession of a valid Class B driver’s license.
Possession of a Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate from the California State Water Resources Control Board.

The City of San Mateo Public Works Department is looking for a

Wastewater Treatment Plant Mechanic I/II

Why Join our Department?

The Public Works Department’s Environmental Services Division (ESD) is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the City’s 15.7 million gallon per day (MGD) conventional activated sludge wastewater treatment plant (WWTP).  The WWTP serves a population of more than 140,000 with an annual operating budget in excess of $15 million and has a staff of 33 professional and technical personnel.  Planned upgrades to the WWTP include new liquids treatment process facilities consisting of new headworks, primary treatment, and biological nutrient removal/membrane bioreactor (BNR/MBR) process.  When you join the Public Works Department, you will work among collaborative and energetic colleagues who share a passion for serving our San Mateo citizens and improving the community in which we live and work.  Our team is comprised of individuals with diverse talents and experience in various fields.  We will provide you with a wide range of opportunities in a team-based collaborative environment while helping you achieve your professional goals.

Collaboration, Innovation, Respect, Creativity, Transparency and Informed Risk-taking are attributes within the City’s mission, values and organizational principles that we are seeking in the candidates.

Look to some of the reasons why the City of San Mateo is a great place to work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_GTIzeSpc_g
 

What You’ll Do

The Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Mechanic I/II performs semi‑skilled and skilled work in the installation and repair of pumps, motors, chain drives, valves and related equipment and to do related work as required.  The WWTP Mechanic I is the entry level class in the Plant Mechanic series.  Positions in this class normally perform beginning level mechanical repair and maintenance work on a wide variety of wastewater quality control plant systems and equipment. Under this class series concept, positions assigned to the class of Plant Mechanic II may reasonably be filled at the Plant Mechanic I level.  The WWTP Mechanic II is the journey level class in the Plant Mechanic series. Positions assigned to this class are flexibly staffed and are expected to perform the most skilled repair and maintenance work and have a thorough knowledge of the operational characteristics, maintenance and repair methods and techniques and most typical system difficulties for the full range of equipment and operational systems in the plant. All positions assigned to this class require the ability to work independently, exercising judgment and initiative. Plant Mechanics II may also be expected to assist in the supervision of less experienced personnel.

Depending upon assignment, duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Operate machines and tools in repairing defective parts of pumps, compressors, generators, motors, lift stations, boilers and related mechanical equipment.

• Maintain accurate mechanical maintenance records.

• Install, repair, replace, and modify pumps, controllers, bearings, seals, hydraulic pipes, timing devices and assist in installing telemetering electrical equipment.

• Use a variety of power hand tools, cutting and welding equipment and electrical test equipment. Fully utilize the computerized work systems in accordance with work flow processes.

• Perform preventive maintenance on wastewater treatment plant mechanical and electrical equipment. Evaluate equipment performance and identify problem areas.

• Maintain stock inventory and adequate supply of replacement parts.

• Plant mechanics may be required to respond to emergency situations after normal working hours and be subject to serve on emergency stand-by alert and call out status on a rotational basis, including participation in rotating stand-by duties.

• Analyze or create documents, such as blueprints, markings, surveys, etc. to problem solve the most effective approach to a task.

• Verify the work of others for accuracy, proper work methods, techniques, and compliance.

• Formulate solutions to problems with equipment or operations, including logistics, operations, and processes.

• Draft operating procedures.

The Wastewater Treatment Plant Mechanic I/II receives supervision from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Maintenance Superintendent or Wastewater Treatment Plant Mechanic III as directed technical or functional supervision may be provided by higher level treatment plant maintenance personnel.  Assignments may require indirect supervision of less experienced plant maintenance personnel.

For a complete list of duties, reference our job specifications at https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/DocumentCenter/Home/Index/86

Applications will be accepted until Friday, October 31, 2025

Written Exam: Friday, November 21, 2025

Oral Exam: TBD

Resumes are not accepted in lieu of completing a City application.

Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

DEFINITION

Under supervision, performs electrical, preventive and corrective maintenance, modifications of existing equipment and the installation of new electrical equipment used within the wastewater treatment plant, the wastewater lift stations and the potable water pump stations and equipment; on 24-hour emergency call for electrical repairs; and performs other duties as assigned.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Installs, repairs, maintains or replaces electrical equipment including but not limited to, motor control centers, generators, switchgear panels, variable frequency drives, pump controllers, large distribution breakers, motors of various sizes and voltages, ground fault systems, magnetic and solid state starters, building lighting and power, HVAC equipment, reduced voltage transformers, SCADA control systems, fused disconnects, and various size and types of lighting. Shall review plans and specifications, may inspect electrical components to be installed during new construction, equipment replacement or modification. Shall maintain equipment records on the computerized maintenance system and update drawings as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of: Electrical tools including but not limited to, basic hand and power tools, electric cable puller (mule), conduit benders (both hand and hydraulic), MEGGER, phase rotation meter, VOM meter, hydraulic knock-out tool, hand and power threading equipment, accepted safety practices and standards related to both personnel practices and proper handling and installation of equipment and systems. National Electrical Code; installation, operation and maintenance of motor control centers, power generation equipment, pumping control equipment with all types of motors.

Ability to: Read and interpret electrical diagrams, plans and electrical codes. Instruct others in preventive maintenance and corrective maintenance of electrical equipment and of safe work practices.  Work independently and with non-skilled electrical personnel.  Interact positively and cooperate with co-workers, respond politely to customers, work as a team member, function under demanding time pressure, respond in a positive manner to supervision, and attend work and perform duties on a regular and consistent basis.

Physical Requirements:  Moderate and sometimes strenuous exertion required including crawling, stair climbing, lifting, carrying and/or handling up to 50 pounds for 30 minutes.  Work in confined areas and wear protective garments.  May work in conditions which require exposure to noise, noxious odors, gases and contact with wastewater.

Experience: Four years of journey-level electrical trade experience involving work performed in conformance with standard codes and both single and three phase equipment.  Experience with water or wastewater utility systems desirable.

Education:  Graduation from high school, or equivalent.  Continuing education in related subjects is desirable.

License:  Possession of a valid Class C California Driver’s License.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I

($24.79– 31.74 per hour)

The City of Chowchilla is seeking a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I for the operation and maintenance of the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant. The Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator I is a journey-level class in the Wastewater Treatment Plant series, which normally works under general supervision, performing a group of related duties according to established procedures.  This position reports to the Utility Systems or Wastewater System Supervisor and does not supervise. 

Sewer Authority Mid-Coastside (SAM), located in Half Moon Bay, is seeking a candidate for the full-time position of Wastewater Operator. This is a flexibly staffed position and can be filled at the Wastewater Operator II or III level. First review of applications is August 7, 2024. Interviews scheduled for August 21, 2024.

Don’t miss this opportunity to work with a highly dedicated team and bring your knowledge and experience to assist in continuing to make Sewer Authority Mid-Coastside a great place.

SAM offers competitive benefits which include Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Flex Spending and retirement through CalPERS.

FULL POSITION DESCRIPTION: https://samcleanswater.org/careers

TO APPLY: https://apptrkr.com/5418619
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Wastewater Operator II

$ 47.36 – $56.56 Hourly

$3,789 – $4,525 Biweekly 

Wastewater Operator II - A journey level classification in the Wastewater Operator series. The ideal candidate must be skilled in basic principles of mechanical, maintenance, and electrical systems. Must be able to recognize and report unusual, inefficient, or dangerous operating situations. Must have working knowledge of the functions and purpose of wastewater disposal systems; routine cleaning and basic operation of wastewater treatment equipment. Must have knowledge of algebra and geometry as required to perform the responsibilities of the position; basic knowledge of electronics and hydraulics. Must have excellent communication skills, work cooperatively with those contacted in the course of work, and have a dedication to safe working practices. Must be able to work on-call as assigned. Work independently, as needed. 

Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent and two years of full-time experience in a wastewater treatment facility in a position equivalent to a Wastewater Operator I. Possession of a Grade II California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board. 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Wastewater Operator III

$52.09 -$62.21 Hourly

$4,167 - $4,977 Biweekly

Wastewater Operator III-An advanced level classification in the Wastewater Operator series. The ideal candidate  must be skilled in inspecting, operating, and maintaining a wastewater treatment plant and related lift stations including primary, secondary, tertiary and solids treatment processes. Must be able to recognize inefficient, unusual, or dangerous operating conditions. Solid experience in basic principles of mechanical, maintenance, and electrical systems; algebra and geometry; basic knowledge of electronics and hydraulics.  Must have good trouble shooting skills, attention to detail, excellent communication skills, training and leadership abilities, and have a dedication to safe working practices. Must be able to independently perform plant operations work; work on-call as assigned.

Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent and three years of full-time experience equivalent to a Wastewater Operator II in a  wastewater treatment facility.  Possession of a Grade III California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate issued by the State of California Water Resources Control Board.   

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator III

($29.43- $37.66 per hour)

PURPOSE: Under general supervision, assists in the operation and maintenance of a Wastewater Treatment Plant on an assigned shift.  Performs related responsibilities as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

In addition to being a full, advanced journey-level position, incumbents are expected to provide lead supervision over wastewater treatment plant maintenance staff.  Employees assigned to this class coordinate and perform the full range of skilled duties to operate, maintain, repair and modify the Wastewater Treatment Plant and the wastewater collection system.  

This position reports to the Utility Systems Supervisor and assists in determining equipment, personnel and material needs.  This position may act as the WWTP Supervisor (or as the Utility Systems Supervisor, if qualified) during periods when the appointed Utility Systems Supervisor is on vacation or absent from work for other reasons.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Assists in the operation of valves and other related controls to distribute flow through unit process and application of chlorine and chemicals to the wastewater.

2. Monitors control equipment such as pumps, motors, valves, blowers, sludge collectors, heat exchangers, sludge thickeners and other related process equipment.

3. Reads meters, gauges and other instrumentation.

4. Maintains a daily record of facility operation, samples collected and corrections to unit processes.

5. Adjusts or alters chemical treatment of the plant as necessary.

6. Collects samples for observation and analysis from unit processes.

7. Performs daily and weekly laboratory analysis as needed for process adjustments and performance indicators.

8. Performs preventative maintenance to equipment, such as routine service, lubrication and cleaning of process equipment and machinery.

9. Operated a wide variety of tools and equipment used in minor mechanical repair and operation of process equipment.

10. Assists in minor repairs to all process equipment as needed.

11. Performs building and ground maintenance, which may involve weed control, gardening and janitorial services.

12. Performs related duties as required.

The City of Burlingame (pop. 30,000) is a thriving suburban city three miles south of the San Francisco Airport. It boasts a significant shoreline and has two main downtown areas. With a team of 69 staff and a $52 million budget, the Public Works Department is responsible for facilities, fleet, sewers, streets, water and wastewater, engineering, and the CIP. 

The salary range is $208,456 - $253,404, with a 4% increase in January 2026; salary is supplemented by a highly competitive benefits package. Closes at 11:59pm Sunday, October 12, 2025.  

Pro Tip:  Have your resume, cover letter and list of references prepared to upload when you are
ready to apply. That way, you'll be halfway to the winner's circle! 

Applications are being accepted for the position of Water Quality Control Plant Electrician I/II with the City of South San Francisco in the Public Works Department. 

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2025, OR UPON RECEIPT OF THE FIRST 100 ONLINE APPLICATIONS, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST.

THE CITY OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT PACKAGE, AS WELL AS CALPERS RETIREMENT PLAN AND SOCIAL SECURITY PARTICIPATION.

The Department

The South San Francisco Public Works Department is comprised of its three main divisions - Engineering, Maintenance & Operations, and the Water Quality Control Plant. Together, these divisions ensure that South San Francisco's infrastructure and public services are efficiently managed and maintained, contributing to the overall quality of life in the community.

Located adjacent to San Francisco Bay on Colma Creek, the Water Quality Control Plant (WQCP) provides secondary wastewater treatment for the cities of South San Francisco, San Bruno, and Colma. It also provides the dechlorination treatment of chlorinated effluent for the cities of Burlingame, Millbrae, and the San Francisco International Airport prior to discharging the treated wastewater into San Francisco Bay. The average dry weather flow through the facility is 9 million gallons per day (MGD). Peak wet weather flows can exceed 60 MGD.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The City of Pacifica is recruiting for a Public Works Superintendent within the Department of Public Works. Under the direction of the Field Services Manager, the incumbents will be responsible for the field services of the Public Works Department. They will plan, organize, and direct the work of field personnel and perform related work as required. The incumbents will be assigned to oversee various subdivisions such as Streets, Streams, Storm Drains, Street Lighting, and Motor Pool programs.

THE DEPARTMENT

The Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining and repairing the City’s infrastructure and wastewater treatment operations in an efficient and cost-effective manner while providing a high level of customer service and a safe work environment for city employees. The Department maintains parks, playing fields and medians and keeps streets and trails clean and well-maintained. The Department also coordinates the tree program, cleans beaches and coordinates the City Beautification program.

The Public Works Department is organized into three divisions including Wastewater Treatment Operations, Field Services and Engineering. The Wastewater Treatment Operations includes the operation of the Calera Creek water treatment plant and management of the collection system. Field Services oversees the maintenance of city streets, parks, trees, vehicles and public facilities. The Engineering Division manages public infrastructure projects, transportation planning and maintenance and repair of the City’s infrastructure. The Public Works Department is supported by 56 full-time staff and an annual operating budget of $4.6 million, along with a FY2023-2028 CIP appropriation of $ 8.6 million. 

At the City of Pacifica, we are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. To us, equal opportunity employment is not just about compliance, it’s about who you are, how you can help our City and who you want to be. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and community members. 

If interested, we invite you to explore this opportunity with us.  Please note, this recruitment closes on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 5:00 PM PST so apply today!

PUBLIC WORKS SUPERINTENDENT

(Streets and Streams, Parks, Building Facilities and Motor Pool)

DEFINITION

Under direction, manages the field services of the Public Works Department; to plan, organize, and direct the work of field personnel, including Parks, Trees, Streams Streets, Buildings, Rangers and/or Motor Pool Divisions.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISITCS

This is a management class with major responsibilities for the City’s Parks, Trees, Streams Streets, Buildings, Rangers and/or Motor Pool maintenance programs, that requires significant independence, initiative, and discretion within established guidelines. This position assists in the strategic planning, organization, and management across multiple operational units.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives direction from the Field Services Manager or designee. Exercises general supervision over supervisory, professional, technical and administrative support staff through subordinate levels of supervision.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS - INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Plan, organize, direct, review and evaluate the work of staff involved in public works operations, including building maintenance, streams, streets, streets cleaning, storm drain maintenance, signs and signals, parking lots, and trails, janitorial service for City owned facilities, and vehicle maintenance and repair directly and through subordinate levels of supervision.
• Establish and carry out division goals, objectives, work plans, reports, policies and procedures.
• Prepare division budget and staffing requirements;
• Plan, organize and direct the work of contractors;
• Responsible for the procurement of goods and services.
• Monitor operations to ensure that operating procedures are followed.
• Control the requisition of supplies, materials and equipment.
• Assist in the recruitment and placement of new employees.
• Attend public meetings and functions.
• Establish division goals and maintain exceptional working relationships.
• Maintain exceptional working relationships
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as required and other duties as assigned.

Applications are being accepted for the position of Plant Utility Worker with the City of South San Francisco in the Public Works Department. 

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  THURSDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2025 AT 5:00 PM, OR UPON RECEIPT OF THE FIRST 100 ONLINE APPLICATIONS, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST.

THE CITY OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT PACKAGE, AS WELL AS CALPERS RETIREMENT PLAN AND SOCIAL SECURITY PARTICIPATION.

The Department

The South San Francisco Public Works Department is comprised of its three main divisions - Engineering, Maintenance & Operations, and the Water Quality Control Plant. Together, these divisions ensure that South San Francisco's infrastructure and public services are efficiently managed and maintained, contributing to the overall quality of life in the community.

Located adjacent to San Francisco Bay on Colma Creek, the Water Quality Control Plant (WQCP) provides secondary wastewater treatment for the cities of South San Francisco, San Bruno, and Colma. It also provides the dechlorination treatment of chlorinated effluent for the cities of Burlingame, Millbrae, and the San Francisco International Airport prior to discharging the treated wastewater into San Francisco Bay. The average dry weather flow through the facility is 9 million gallons per day (MGD). Peak wet weather flows can exceed 60 MGD.