Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator III-V
Job Description
This 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.
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 CHARACTERISTICS
Wastewater 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 EXERCISED
Receives direction from the Wastewater Operations and Maintenance Supervisor. May exercise technical supervision over less certified Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES
The 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.
QUALIFICATIONS
Wastewater 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 IV
In 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 V
In 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 QUALIFICATIONS
Wastewater 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 IV
License 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 V
License 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.
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