Water System Operator I/II chez City of Tehachapi (CA), CA

About the Department

The City of Tehachapi is seeking qualified candidates for one (1) full-time Water System Operator position. The successful applicant may be hired at the Water System Operator I or Water System Operator II level depending on qualifications, experience, and current certifications.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Public Works Department, specifically within the Water Division, where your work ensures the safe and reliable delivery of drinking water to the community. The position offers the chance to develop valuable technical skills, obtain professional certifications, and work in a stable environment that allows you to make a direct and meaningful contribution to the residents of Tehachapi.

Position Duties

Water System Operators perform skilled and semi-skilled duties related to the operation, maintenance, and repair of the City’s water production and distribution systems. This includes maintaining water mains, valves, services, hydrants, and meters; responding to customer service inquiries; collecting water samples; and assisting in construction and emergency repairs.

Operators also perform equipment operation, trenching, traffic control, and recordkeeping duties while adhering to safety and regulatory standards. Work is primarily outdoors and may involve emergency call-outs or standby assignments.

• Water System Operator I: Entry-level position performing semi-skilled work in water system maintenance and repair under close supervision. This position provides an excellent opportunity to learn the City’s water distribution systems, gain technical experience, and progress toward higher certification levels.
• Water System Operator II: Journey-level position performing skilled maintenance, repair, and customer service work with greater independence. This position requires sound judgment, technical expertise, and the ability to respond effectively to system issues in the field.

Minimum Qualifications

Water System Operator I

• Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate valid California Driver’s License.
• Required within eighteen (18) months of appointment:
  • Grade I Water Distribution Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board (required for continued employment).
• Failure to obtain the required certificate within the established timeframe may result in release from probation or termination.

Water System Operator II

• Possession of an appropriate, valid California Driver’s License.
• Required Certifications:
  • Grade II Water Distribution Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.
  • Grade I Water Treatment Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.
• Desirable Certification:
  • Backflow Tester Certificate

Other Qualifications

As part of the selection process, applicants may be required to participate in a written examination designed to evaluate their knowledge of water system operations, maintenance procedures, safety practices, and basic math and mechanical concepts relevant to the position.

• Applicants must achieve a minimum passing score of 70% on the written exam to be considered for interview.
• Applicants who currently hold valid (non-expired) licenses in Water Distribution, Water Treatment, or Wastewater Treatment are exempt from the written exam.
• Achieving a passing score or meeting exemption criteria does not guarantee an interview. Final interview selections will be made at the discretion of City staff based on qualifications, certifications, and departmental needs.

Additional details regarding the examination date, time, and location will be provided to eligible applicants after the application period closes.

Pay Scales

• Water System Operator I: $4,543 - $7,119 per month
• Water System Operator II: $4689 - $7,349 per month

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