What are the responsibilities and job description for the Water Plant Operator I/II/III position at City of Vacaville?
With more than 600 employees, the City of Vacaville values work-life balance, every other Friday off, employee social and wellness activities, casual dress days, competitive pay and a generous benefits and retirement package.
Contribute to our vibrant community and join the City of Vacaville!
The City of Vacaville is accepting applications for the position of Water Plant Operator I/II/III in our Utilities Department. Currently there is one (1) Water Plant Operator vacancy. This recruitment will serve to establish an eligibility list that may be used to fill additional vacancies that could occur over the next 12-month period.
Salary Information:
Water Plant Operator I $70,756 - $86,005/Annually
Water Plant Operator II $88,442 - $107,501/Annually
Water Plant Operator III $97,277 - $118,241/Annually
Working for the City of Vacaville comes with an excellent benefits package including:
- Medical Insurance at affordable rates - City covers up to 85% of Kaiser premium, other plans are also available
- Vision and Dental Insurance monthly premiums covered 100% by the City
- Paid sick leave, vacation leave, thirteen holidays and two floating holidays a year
- Tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment
- Deferred compensation plan with City contribution, no employee match required
- California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) plan enrollment and Retiree Health Savings account
- Enjoy a dynamic work schedule! Operators with the City of Vacaville benefit from a rotating schedule that includes daytime 9/80 shifts and 12-hour daytime shifts throughout the year, offering both flexibility and work-life balance
Water Plant Operators play a vital role in ensuring the community has access to safe and reliable drinking water. This position involves operating and maintaining water treatment facilities, monitoring system performance and ensuring compliance with State and Federal regulations. Operators work with a variety of equipment and technology to manage water quality, flow and treatment processes.
Duties within this role include, but are not limited to:
- Monitoring and Adjusting Systems – Operate treatment plant controls, pumps and reservoirs to regulate water flow and quality.
- Water Quality Management – Collect samples, conduct tests and apply treatment processes to maintain compliance with health and safety standards.
- Equipment Maintenance and Repairs – Inspect, service and troubleshoot pumps, valves and other facility components to ensure efficient operations.
- Safety and Compliance – Handle chemicals safely, follow regulatory requirements and respond to system alarms and emergency situations.
For a complete job description, please click on the following links:
Water Plant Operator I
Water Plant Operator II
Water Plant Operator III
The ideal Water Plant Operator is a detail-oriented and safety-conscious professional with a strong understanding of water treatment processes and equipment. They have a commitment to public health, regulatory compliance and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate should have:
- Technical Expertise – Knowledge of water treatment processes, SCADA systems and mechanical equipment maintenance.
- Analytical Skills – Ability to interpret data, conduct water quality tests and make adjustments to ensure regulatory compliance.
- Problem-Solving Ability – Skilled at troubleshooting equipment, identifying system issues and implementing effective solutions.
- Attention to Detail – Precision in monitoring plant operations, documenting readings and maintaining accurate records.
- Commitment to Safety – Understanding of hazardous materials handling, emergency response procedures and workplace safety protocols.
- Adaptability – Willingness to work various shifts, respond to emergencies and stay updated on industry regulations and best practices.
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 is:
Water Plant Operator I
Education: Equivalent to completion of twelfth grade.
Experience: One year of work experience involving operation, repair, or maintenance of motors, pumps or similar equipment is highly desirable.
Water Plant Operator II
Education: Equivalent to completion of twelfth grade.
Experience: One year of work experience performing the functions of a water treatment plant operator.
License and Certificate: A valid California Class C Driver’s License and a satisfactory driving record are required.
A California State Water Resources Control Board Distribution Operator Grade 2 (D-2) is required.
A California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 2 (T-2), plus any other State-mandated certification is required.
Within 12 months of appointment, must obtain licensing adequate to maintain compliance with all State and Federal requirements for hazardous materials handling and transport. Current licensing requirement is: California Commercial Class C Driver’s License with hazardous materials endorsement. Department of Motor Vehicles age restrictions may apply.
Within 36 months of appointment, a T-3 Water Treatment Operator certificate is required.
Water Plant Operator III
Education: Equivalent to completion of twelfth grade.
Experience: Two years of work experience performing the functions of a water treatment plant operator.
License and Certificate: A valid California Class C Driver’s License and a satisfactory driving record are required.
A California State Water Resources Control Board Distribution Operator Grade 2 (D-2) is required.
A California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator Grade 3 (T-3), plus any other State-mandated certification is required.
Within 12 months of appointment, must obtain licensing adequate to maintain compliance with all State and Federal requirements for hazardous materials handling and transport. Current licensing requirement is: California Commercial Class C Driver’s License with hazardous materials endorsement. Department of Motor Vehicles age restrictions may apply.
Applicants are encouraged to apply online at www.cityofvacaville.com. Application packets may also be requested in person at the Human Resources Department or by calling (707) 449-5101.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application packet.
IMPORTANT: Contact with applicants will primarily occur via email. Please ensure that your application indicates a valid email address which you check on a regular basis.
For ADA information and other Frequently Asked Questions, please click here.
Applicants receiving a conditional offer of employment must successfully complete the pre-placement process for this position before a final offer will be extended. Pre-placement assessments for this position include a Livescan (FBI/DOJ fingerprint review), drug screen, medical exam, employment and education verification and DMV record review.
Salary : $70,756 - $86,005
