Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator III-V

Salary: $42.94 - $57.69 HourlyLocation : Placerville, CAJob Type: Full-TimeJob Number: 202600033Department: OperationsDivision: Wastewater and Recycled WaterOpening Date: 03/09/2026Closing Date: 4/10/2026 11:59 PM PacificFLSA: Non-ExemptBargaining Unit: EA - Employee Association DEFINITIONThis position is open until filled, with the first review of candidates scheduled for April 3, 2026, or until a sufficient number of qualified candidates have been received, whichever occurs sooner. Therefore, we encourage you to apply early.The Human Resources Department is currently accepting applications for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator III-V position in the Operations Department. This recruitment may be used to establish an eligibility list for future vacancies. Under supervision performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled tasks associated with the operation and maintenance of the District's wastewater treatment plant; monitors treatment plant system operations; responds to alarms; collects and analyzes water samples; and maintains and submits a variety of State documents and records.DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICSWastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade III- This is the Grade III journey level in Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator series. It is distinguished from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade II by the ability to perform the full range of duties assigned including serving as shift operator for the District's most complex systems. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the Grade II level once the appropriate certification level is obtained.Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade IV- This is the Grade IV journey level in the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator series. It is distinguished from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade III by the possession of a Wastewater Treatment Operators Grade IV certificate. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the Grade III level once the appropriate certification level is obtained.Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade V - This is the Grade V journey level in the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator series. It is distinguished from the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade IV by the possession of a Wastewater Treatment Operators Grade V certificate. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the Grade IV level once the appropriate certification level is obtained.SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISEDReceives direction from the Wastewater Operations and Maintenance Supervisor. May exercise technical supervision over less certified Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators. EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIESThe duties specified below are representative of the range of duties assigned to this class and are not intended to be an inclusive list.Reads meters, gauges, charts and instruments associated with the monitoring of operations; ensures proper processing of wastewater to meet local, State and Federal regulations; makes adjustments to treatment processes as necessary to ensure proper wastewater standards.Operates pumps, valves and other equipment by hand, mechanical and program parameter (PLCs) to regulate the flow of wastewater through various treatment processes; maintains flow to assure maximum efficiency of plant equipment.Takes samples of wastewater and other materials at established times; runs laboratory tests as needed. Inspects plant equipment and remote facilities and reports any failures or operating difficulties; stops and starts equipment as required for repairs; operates, adjusts and maintains chemical feed equipment to ensure compliance with established standards; troubleshoots electrical system problems and makes minor repairs and/or modifications.Performs record keeping functions such as logging plant operations, test results, maintenance work performed and unusual operating conditions; prepares and maintains a variety of records. Cleans, lubricates and performs routine maintenance of plant equipment and facilities; assists in the routine maintenance of plant machinery, equipment, piping and structures; assists in the care of grounds.Completes a variety of reports; develops and updates standard operating procedures.Builds and maintains positive working relationships with co-workers, other District employees and the public using principles of good customer service.Performs related duties as assigned. QUALIFICATIONSWastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade IIIKnowledge of:Emergency response procedures. Wastewater treatment practices and procedures. Wastewater quality troubleshooting practices. Wastewater testing procedures. Methods for troubleshooting equipment associated with the operation of a wastewater treatment plant. Computer operations and software.Skill/Ability to:Independently operate wastewater treatment plant equipment, including automatic control devices. Independently troubleshoot and resolve operational issues. Troubleshoot and resolve routine maintenance issues associated with wastewater treatment equipment. Make operating adjustments to wastewater treatment equipment. Recognize unusual, inefficient or dangerous operating conditions and take appropriate action. Accurately read and record data from gauges and meters. Read and interpret plant piping and distribution diagrams and schematics. Maintain accurate records. Take samples and run routine laboratory tests. Respond appropriately to emergency situations. Independently use a variety of software related to office operations and the operations of the plant. Experience and Education:Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:Experience:Two years of responsible experience similar to Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade II with the El Dorado Irrigation District.Education:Education as required by the California State Water Resources Control Board to obtain and retain a Wastewater Treatment Operators Grade III Certificate.Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade IVIn addition to the qualifications for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade III:Knowledge of:Advanced wastewater treatment practices and procedures. Principles, practices and regulations related to operating a wastewater treatment plant in accordance with the scope of duties allowed by a Wastewater Treatment Operators Grade IV certificate.Skill/Ability to:Develop and revise standard operating procedures. Assess and analyze operational issues affecting treatment.Experience and Education:Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:Experience:Two years of responsible experience similar to Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade III with the El Dorado Irrigation District.Education:Education as required by the California State Water Resources Control Board to obtain and retain a Wastewater Treatment Operators Grade IV Certificate.Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade VIn addition to the qualifications for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade IV:Knowledge of:Principles, practices and regulations related to operating a wastewater treatment plant in accordance with the scope of duties allowed by a Wastewater Treatment Operators Grade V certificate.Skill/Ability to:Assess, analyze and resolve the most complex operational issues affecting treatment.Experience and Education:Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:Experience:Two years of responsible experience similar to Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade IV with the El Dorado Irrigation District.Education:Education as required by the California State Water Resources Control Board to obtain and retain a Wastewater Treatment Operators Grade V Certificate.SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONSWastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade IIILicense and Certificate:Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California driver's license at the time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.Possession of a Wastewater Operators Grade III Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. Employees in this classification whose job duties require internet connectivity or the use of a District laptop and air card while on standby must provide and utilize, at their sole expense, a functionally reliable personal internet connection or District provided reliable air card with a District-provided laptop to facilitate District stand-by business.Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade IVLicense and Certificate:Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California driver's license at the time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.Possession of a Wastewater Operators Grade IV Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. Employees in this classification whose job duties require internet connectivity or the use of a District laptop and air card while on standby must provide and utilize, at their sole expense, a functionally reliable personal internet connection or District provided reliable air card with a District-provided laptop to facilitate District stand-by business.Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator - Grade VLicense and Certificate:Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California driver's license at the time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.Possession of a Wastewater Operators Grade V Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board. Employees in this classification whose job duties require internet connectivity or the use of a District laptop and air card while on standby must provide and utilize, at their sole expense, a functionally reliable personal internet connection or District provided reliable air card with a District-provided laptop to facilitate District stand-by business.We offer a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees, including health care, dental, vision, pension, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, holidays, vacation, and retiree health insurance benefits (subject to vesting schedule). Health Insurance Benefits (Active Employees) - CalPERS plans, including PPOs and HMOs availableEmployer pays entire monthly premiums for employee or up to $2,758.51 for a family plan (100/85 split)Health Insurance Benefits (Retiree) - CalPERS plans, including PPOs, HMO, and Senior plans available (subject to vesting schedule).Employer pays entire monthly premiums for employee-only coverage, or up to $2,758.51 for a family plan (100/85 split)Dental Insurance (Delta Dental PPO Network) Employee only: No costEmployee + 1 Dependent - $2.85 biweeklyEmployee + 2 or more Dependents - $8.89 biweeklyOrthodontic Benefits- 50% or $3,500 lifetimeVision Insurance (VSP) Employee only: No costEmployee + 1 Dependent - $0.07 biweeklyEmployee + 2 or more Dependents - $0.57 biweeklyFrames every 2 years & lenses every yearFlexible Spending Account- voluntaryHealth Care Expenses: $3,400 for 2026Dependent Care Expenses: $7,500 for 2026Pre-tax contributions with a P&A Group credit card for eligible expenses Life & AD&D Insurance (Prudential) Coverage equal to one-time annual base salary (up to $150,000) - no cost to employeeAdditional coverage for employee and dependents available- voluntary Deferred Compensation (457b plan) Voluntary pre-tax contributions via payroll deductionCatch-up provisions available at age 50 Retirement Benefits Defined Benefit Plans vary by hire date, age, years of service, and average monthly salary at retirement.Classic PERS Members: 2% @ 55 PlanEmployee contribution: 7%One-year final compensationPEPRA Members: 2% formula @ 62Employee Contribution: 7.5% Average of the three highest years of service compensation Paid Time Off (PTO)First 3 years - 176 hours (after 1-year probationary period)4 to 9 years - 216 hours10 to 14 years - 256 hours15 or More Years - 296 hours14 Paid Holidays (includes one personal business day, and two half days)Tuition Reimbursement$3,000 per calendar year maximum after probationDesired Training$750 per calendar year maximumFor more information, please visit our benefits page.01 The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified, and documentation may be required. Please ensure your answers are honest and accurate. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire, you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal.Please read each question carefully and provide a thorough and complete response. Failure to respond to all questions will be considered an incomplete application and may not be processed further. Yes, I understand and agree No, I do not agree 02 Please indicate the highest grade of Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate you currently hold, as issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB): Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate, Grade III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate, Grade IV Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate, Grade V None of the above 03 How many years of experience do you have in treatment plant operation or a similar position? Less than one (1) year. At least one (1) year, but less than two (2) years. At least two (2) years, but less than three (3) years. At least three (3) years, but less than four (4) years. More than four (4) years. 04 The requirements for this position include being available to work either of the two shift schedules-Sunday through Wednesday or Wednesday through Saturday-as no permanently assigned shift can be guaranteed. Are you willing to work days, afternoons, nights, weekends, holidays, and other varying schedules as needed? Yes No 05 Describe your highest level of involvement in monitoring and adjusting wastewater treatment processes (e.g., aeration, sedimentation, disinfection). I have observed these processes but did not make adjustments. I have monitored and reported readings or test results to others for adjustment. I have independently adjusted treatment processes based on test results and system performance. I have made operational decisions and provided guidance to others on process control and adjustments. I have no experience. 06 Indicate which types of wastewater treatment processes or systems you have regularly monitored and adjusted as part of your work duties. (Select all that apply.) Activated sludge processes with secondary clarification MBR (Membrane Biological Reactor) Coagulation and flocculation systems Filtration systems Disinfection systems (e.g., UV, chlorination) SCADA-based systems for flow, quality, or pressure control Solids handling None of the above 07 Which of the following repair or diagnostic activities have you performed in the course of your work duties? (Select all that apply.) Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions within the treatment plant by using diagnostic tools, manuals, and hand tools Maintained or calibrated flow meters, analyzers, or chemical feed systems Performed preventive maintenance (e.g., lubricating, replacing filters, adjusting equipment) Performed minor mechanical repairs (e.g., replaced valves, seals, or other mechanical parts) Assisted in major repairs or rebuilds of large-scale treatment equipment Coordinated or directed contractors or maintenance crews for major repairs None of the above 08 Which statement best describes your highest level of involvement in collecting, conducting, and interpreting laboratory tests on influent, process samples, or effluent?• I collected and labeled samples for testing by others but did not perform tests myself. I performed basic field tests (e.g., pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen) and recorded results for review by others. I performed basic field tests (e.g., pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen) and used results to recommend or make process adjustments. I operated laboratory equipment to conduct standard wastewater analyses and used results to recommend or make process adjustments. No experience 09 Please rate your comfort level working in challenging or adverse conditions, such as inclement weather or physical demands. Very Comfortable Slightly Comfortable Comfortable Slightly Uncomfortable Uncomfortable Required Question

Created: 2026-04-02