Water Resource Recovery Facility Operator (SBP) Limited Term

Water Resource Recovery Facility Operator (SBP) Limited Term

Salary

$76,674.00 - $115,570.00 Annually

Location

City of San Luis Obispo, CA

Job Type

Contract Full Time

Department

Water Resource Recovery

Opening Date

09/24/2026

Closing Date

10/11/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

FLSA

Non-Exempt

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

JOB DESCRIPTION

Water Resource Recovery Facility Operator (SBP) - Limited Term

Join a high-performing team at one of the Central Coast's most advanced Water Resource Recovery Facilities. The City of San Luis Obispo is seeking a motivated, technically curious Operator for a six-month limited-term role supporting essential operations that protect our community's water quality. This is a chance to contribute to a cutting-edge facility, gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art systems, and grow your professional skills in a supportive, mission-driven environment.

JOB SUMMARY:

To perform a variety of responsible and complex operations duties at the Citys Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF). Employees in this job class perform a wide variety of operations and maintenance tasks from the semi-skilled and skilled level to journey level. Employees in this classification must be available to work on any assigned shift that may include working nights, holidays and weekends. This job class includes responsibility for the performance of the full range of the classifications tasks and duties, ultimately performing at a journey level of classification. Appointment to a level in this job class is based upon achieving and maintaining a specified level of competence, professionalism and performance as defined through a skills-based-pay rating.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:

This classification is a "Skills Based Pay" advancement series. Employees in this classification who are part of a series shall have the opportunity to advance within the series to the highest working class. Such advancement shall be based on their attainment and demonstrated performance of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities, and/or required certification, and the recommendation of the department head.

SUPERVISION

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:

Employees in this classification receive direct supervision from the Water Resource Recovery Facility Chief Operator and Water Resource Recovery Facility Supervisor within a framework of standard Utilities Department and City policies and procedures. Incumbents in this classification may work independently while on mandatory standby/callout.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:(Any one position may not include all of the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks that may be found in positions of this class.)

• Operates, calibrates and maintains a variety of equipment and instruments used for proper water reclamation treatment including chlorinators, sulfonators, residual analyzers, evaporators, transducers, ORP systems, etc.
• Operates and maintains chemical feed facilities for sodium hypochlorite and sodium bisulfite processes and sludge dewatering system; adjusts and regulates hypochlorite and other chemical feeds.
• Inspects facility to determine the proper functioning of equipment including pumps, valves, filters, clarifiers, etc.
• Conducts periodic readings of meters and gauges and records data; maintains a variety of manual and computerized records; may generate work orders, reports, etc. as necessary.
• Adjusts valves and controls as necessary to maintain proper flow and treatment of wastewater.
• Collects and performs laboratory analyses of wastewater samples and operates lab equipment; reports hazardous discharge to appropriate authority.
• Participates in major process-control decision-making as appropriate to maintain efficient and effective facility operation.
• Makes complex operational adjustments based on laboratory analyses, charts, recorded data, interpretation of gauges and recording devices, and application of appropriate mathematical analysis of facility operating parameters.
• Regulates pressures and flow rates.
• Reads and accurately records information taken from gauges, dials, and other instrumentation.
• Ensures the smooth coordination of operations and maintenance activities between facilities maintenance and operations personnel.
• Performs operational and preventative maintenance on WRRF equipment; troubleshoots, repairs, rebuilds, cleans, lubricates, and adjusts equipment; operates power and hand tools, electric and pneumatic tools, measuring devices and other plant equipment and machinery.
• Maintains a variety of both written and computerized records of operations and maintenance.
• Operates a computerized telemetry system for process monitoring and control.
• Orders and purchases parts, materials, supplies, and equipment for the facility.
• Performs a variety of manual tasks involving the handling of equipment exposed to raw sewage; cleans and maintains clogged pumps, wet wells, sump basins, etc.
• Operates medium to heavy equipment such as a backhoe, flush truck, loader, pump truck, dump truck, crane, etc.
• Responsible for the performance of work in a safe and proper manner of an assigned shift; may conduct safety training for employees; may train new employees in proper and safe work methods and WRRF operations.
• Conducts public tours of the WRRF for public relations and educational purposes.
• Performs complex mathematical calculations to determine plant process requirements and efficiencies.
• Participate in the mandatory standby/callout rotation for the division.
• Performs related duties similar to the above in scope and function as required.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of:

• Water resource recovery facility processes, operations, procedures and hazards including the operation of biofilters, activated sludge, dual media filtration, anaerobic sludge digestion, chlorination and dechlorination processes.
• State and Federal standards and requirements related to water and resource recovery facility operations and maintenance.
• Proper operation, repair, maintenance and adjustment of water resource recovery facility equipment.
• Basic laboratory principles and practices and laboratory analyses used in control of water resource recovery facility unit processes.
• Methods and procedures for the safe and proper handling and use of chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite, sodium bisulfite, ferrous/ferric chloride, sodium hydroxide, polymers, aqueous ammonia and other chemicals used in wastewater treatment.
• Safe work practices.
• General record keeping procedures and systems including database and computer applications.

Ability to:

• Function in a journeyman capacity in the operation of a water resource recovery facility.
• Obtain Grade III WWTPO certificate issued by the SWRCB within six years of appointment.
• Safely and effectively perform complex and skilled operations and maintenance functions related to wastewater treatment plant operations and equipment.
• Be responsible for the operations and maintenance of the facility on assigned shifts.
• Diagnose a variety of operation problems and make complex operational adjustments based on recorded data, lab analyses, and observation.
• Read blue prints and drawings.
• Perform various wastewater physical, chemical and biological laboratory analyses.
• Perform manual labor in an unpleasant and potentially hazardous environment.
• Work any assigned shift.
• Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and other safety equipment as required, and conform to the Citys facial hair requirements for use of respiratory equipment.
• Read and interpret gauges and other recording devices reflecting wastewater treatment plant operations.
• Use applicable computer software programs and equipment including a telemetry system to maintain and update logs, records, and charts.
• Conduct and participate in a variety of work and plant safety programs.
• Understand, follow and disseminate both oral and written instructions in an independent manner.
• Accurately perform mathematical calculations.
• Meet the physical requirements necessary to safely and effectively perform required duties, including annual respiratory capacity physical examination.
• Establish and maintain effective work relationships with those contacted in the performance of the required duties.

TYPICAL QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Minimum entry level requirements are a high school graduation or G.E.D., mechanical aptitude, and ability to advance in a challenging, technical field. Higher initial placement in the salary range is negotiable with higher levels of education and/or experience.

Highly desirable traits include:

Work experience as a State Water Resources Control Board certified operator or SWRCB operator /trainee in the actual operation and maintenance of a water resource recovery facility.

Related college-level courses.

Specialized training related to water reclamation (wastewater treatment) such as chemistry, biology and mathematics.

POSSESSION AND MAINTENANCE OF:

• A valid California class C drivers license and a satisfactory driving record.

THIS POSITION WILL BE REQUIRED TO COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING BEFORE A FINAL OFFER IS MADE:

• Pre-employment Physical
• Livescan Fingerprinting (DOJ)

Equal Opportunity & Language Access Notice

The City of San Luis Obispo values diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. We are committed to fostering a community where all individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and inclusion, and where everyone can thrive. Our job posting site is compatible with tools such as Google Translate, which applicants may use to view postings in their preferred language. Please note that all application materials and responses must be submitted in English, as English is the working language of the City.

La Ciudad de San Luis Obispo valora la diversidad, la equidad, la inclusión y el sentido de pertenencia. Estamos comprometidos a fomentar una comunidad donde todas las personas sean tratadas con dignidad, respeto e inclusión, y donde todos puedan prosperar. Nuestro sitio de publicación de empleos es compatible con herramientas como Google Translate, que los solicitantes pueden usar para ver las publicaciones en su idioma preferido. Tenga en cuenta que todos los materiales de la solicitud y las respuestas deben enviarse en inglés, ya que el inglés es el idioma de trabajo de la Ciudad.

For questions or assistance, please contact recruitment@slocity.org. Si tiene preguntas o necesita asistencia, por favor comuníquese con recruitment@slocity.org.

For a detailed spreadsheet of employee benefits by bargaining group, please view our Benefits Summary.

Retirement: California Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). The City participates only in the medicare portion of Social Security.

Health: the City has a cafeteria plan for health, dental and vision insurance and contributes towards medical insurance. Employees may choose from several health insurance options. There are also two dental plans to choose from. See the Benefits Summary link to determine the contribution amount.

Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance: group term life and AD&D insurance is provided for all regular employees. The amount of coverage varies depending on the classification. Employees may purchase additional life and AD&D insurance for themselves and their dependents.

Vacation: employees receive 12 days per year increasing to 20 days after 20 years.

Holidays: employees receive 12-13 days per year depending on the classification.

Sick Leave: employees receive 12 days per year.

Administrative Leave: is a benefit available to management employees. The number of administrative leave hours varies depending on the classification.

Flexible Work Schedule: is available to many positions within the City organization.

Long Term Disability Insurance: is available for regular employees. The amount of benefit and contribution by employee varies by classification.

Deferred Compensation: is available for employees to set aside a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis to supplement retirement.

Wellness Program: offered to help employees gain knowledge, skills and motivation to improve the quality of their lives and well-being.

Employee Assistance Program: a counseling and consultation service designed to help employees and eligible family members with a wide range of personal issues.

Flexible Benefits Program: available to help employees save taxes on: (1) Pre-tax health insurance premium deductions, (2) Unreimbursed/ uncovered medical expenses, and (3) Dependent care expenses.

Tuition Reimbursement: up to $1500 annually for job-related educational costs is available to employees who have passed probation.

Trip Reduction Incentive Program (TRIP): incentives are available for employees who voluntarily participate in alternative forms of transportation to and from work.

Computer Purchase Program: interest-free loans to employees who have passed probation and who purchase computers for personal use with City approved software configuration.

Professional Association for City Employees (PACE): voluntary organization for professional development training classes, monthly membership meetings with a variety of speakers, and social functions designed to facilitate interaction with employees from all departments in a relaxed setting away from work.

01

Which of the following best describes your highest level of education?

• Masters degree or higher
• Bachelors degree
• Associates degree or vocational equivalent
• Some college
• High School/G.E.D.
• None of the above

02

Please describe how you meet the requirements of having a mechanical aptitude, and a demonstrated interest in advancement in challenging, technical fields.

03

Do you have any specialized training related to water reclamation (wastewater treatment) such as chemistry, biology and mathematics? If "Yes", please describe your specialized training in detail.

04

Do you have work experience as a State Water Resources Control Board certified operator or SWRCB operator/trainee in the actual operation and maintenance of a water resource recovery facility?

• Yes
• No

05

If you answered, "Yes" to the question above, please describe your answer in detail. If you answered, "No", please put "N/A" as your response.

06

Do you currently possess a valid Class "C" California drivers license?

• Yes - I currently possess a valid Class "C" California drivers license
• No - I do not currently possess a valid Class "C" California drivers license

07

If you currently possess a valid California Class "C" Drivers License, do you possess a satisfactory driving record?

• Yes
• No
• N/A - Do not possess a valid CA Class C Drivers License
• Other

Required Question

Employer City of San Luis Obispo

Address 990 Palm St

San Luis Obispo, California, 93401

Phone 805-781-7250

Website http://www.slocity.org