Water Systems Operator I

Job Description:

Water Systems Operator I

Description

Description

The City of Santa Ana is looking for individuals who are results-oriented, possess great attitudes, demonstrate creativity and innovation, work efficiently, show a record of success and have a passion for public service. Having the best employees provides the best service to the community.

Under direct supervision the Water Systems Operator I receives training, operates, and maintains the water chlorination equipment and the water production facilities such as wells, reservoirs, and pumping stations on a progressively more responsible basis.

This is the entry level classification in the Water Systems Operator series. After appropriate training and experience in the operation and maintenance of water chlorination equipment and water production facilities, incumbents are expected to perform their assigned duties with progressively increased independence and responsibility. This class is distinguished from the next higher-level classification of Water Systems Operator II by the level and complexity of duties assigned.

Essential Functions Include But Are Not Limited To

Monitors the operations control center to determine system needs. Starts and stops selected equipment in response to required and anticipated water demands. Operates and maintains water chlorination equipment and water production facilities such as wells, reservoirs and pumping stations. Performs preventive and corrective maintenance on water chlorination and production system facilities and equipment. Lifts and moves very heavy metal covers to provide access to enclosed structures. Climbs on, under and inside equipment or facilities as needed to effectively perform repair and maintenance work. Performs work in confined spaces and meets all working requirements with safety equipment. Equipment and facilities may include vaults, reservoirs, pumping stations, elevated tank and other enclosures; access may be via vertical ladders. Monitors a two?way radio and uses same to communicate with other Public Works Agency personnel. Sometimes required to work alone for long periods of time, without the assistance of other employees. Reads meters, gauges, and related equipment. Uses current office software applications to perform data logging and records maintenance functions. Cleans the pumphouse facilities, floors, equipment, motors, cabinets, and performs other related housekeeping duties. Lifts and carries a minimum of 50 lbs. in order to move heavy items. Differentiates between normal operating motor and engine sounds and recognizes changes in these sounds that may indicate current or impending problems with that piece of equipment. Performs other functions as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

High School Diploma or equivalent.One year of experience operating control facilities, maintaining and repairing pumps, motors, valves, engines, or other water production equipment; or any other combination of training and experience which provides the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

DESIRABLE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of : basic mathematics; operation and maintenance of electrical or engine-driven pumps; basic mechanical and electrical principles; basic computer operating principles.
• Skill in: the operation of electrical or engine-driven pumps, two-way radio equipment and current personal computer equipment.
• Ability to : anticipate and effectively perform periodic preventive maintenance and repair of water chlorination and water production equipment; keep neat and accurate records; perform timely corrective action in the event of equipment failures; maintain correct pressures in the water system; accurately read meters, valves, gauges and related equipment; differentiate engine sounds and whines; lift and carry a minimum of 50 lbs; climb vertical (perpendicular to the surface) ladders; climb on, under and inside equipment or facilities; successfully operate and monitor two-way radio equipment; follow written and oral directions; communicate effectively with fellow employees and the general public.

SPECIAL MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Must possess and retain a valid California Class “C” Driver's License as a condition of employment.
• Must obtain and retain valid California State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution - Grade 1 as a condition of successful completion of the probationary work test period.
• Must obtain and retain valid California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment - Grade 1 as a condition of successful completion of the probationary work test period.
• Must be willing and able to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays as needed. Must be willing and able to work outside in a variety of climatic conditions.

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS May be required to work rotating shifts and perform standby and after-hours call-out duties.

Selection Process

All applicants are required to complete and submit a City application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the City online application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page. New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide.

Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:

Written Examination (Tentatively scheduled for Wednesday June 25, 2025): (Weight of 50%) which will evaluate candidates' knowledge of electrical concepts, hydraulics and pumps, use of charts and graphs, and the candidates' ability to perform mathematical computations, and to respond appropriately to the public. Candidates need a minimum passing score in order to continue in the selection process.

Oral Interview Examination (Tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, July 15, 2025) : (Weight of 50%) will evaluate the candidates' experience, training, education, and abilities in relation to those factors which are essential for successful performance on the job. Candidates need a minimum passing score in order to be placed on the eligible list.

The Human Resources Department may waive an examination component. Candidates must receive a minimum passing score in all examination components administered in order to be placed on the eligible list. Examinations may be scheduled in a different order in which they appear above.

The City of Santa Ana is an equal opportunity employer. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact us regarding providing reasonable accommodation.

Please visit the following website to view the summary of comprehensive benefits!

Summary of Benefits

(under SEIU)

NOTE: A more complete set of specifications for this classification may be found on the City's website or on file in the Human Resources Department. The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice. The types and levels of employee benefits provided, including City contribution toward benefit costs, are subject to change as a result of periodic contract settlements between recognized employee associations and the City of Santa Ana.

Closing Date/Time: 6/19/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$58,572.00 - $78,552.00 Annually