The City of Simi Valley is seeking a team‑oriented self‑starter to join our Public Works Sanitation Division as a Wastewater Plant Operator I, II, or III (depending on experience).
Plant Operators perform a variety of skilled technical and semi‑skilled duties in the operation and maintenance of the City’s wastewater treatment plant, including: Operating and maintaining plant equipment, performing adjustments and repairs, and collecting and documenting samples for laboratory testing.
This is a great opportunity to contribute to the safe and efficient operation of essential City services while growing your career in public works.
**Opportunities for Growth built-in!**
Upon completion of a satisfactory probationary period, this position offers the opportunity to promote to more advanced levels without requiring a new probationary period.
- Full-Time Regular position
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9/80 work schedule with alternating Monday or Friday off
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Optional overtime may be available
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Pay ranges for advanced-level positions are as follows:
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Plant Operator I - $31.73 - $40.55 per hour
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Plant Operator II - $34.66 - $44.24 per hour
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Plant Operator III - $38.15 - $48.66 per hour
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3% Cost of Living adjustment increase effective 7/13/26
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3% Cost of Living adjustment increase effective 7/12/27
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Generally, salary placement is at the beginning of the salary range.
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Advanced placement may be granted depending on related education and experience.
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Education:
- Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade supplemented by specialized training in water or wastewater treatment plant operations
Experience:
- Experience commensurate with each grade level of certification as required by the State of California, which includes some coursework in the area of assignment.
License/Certificates:
- Wastewater: Possession of a Grade I, II, or III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.
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All Positions: Possession of a valid Class C California driver's license. Positions in Wastewater require a Class B driver's license within 12 months of employment.
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Possession of, or ability to obtain, an appropriate, valid C.P.R. Certificate.
Plant Operator I/II/III
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The ideal candidate will bring:
Practical knowledge of activated sludge wastewater treatment, BNR, and solids handling processes.
Technical expertise in treatment processes, safety practices, and tools used in wastewater facilities.
Experience: At least 3 years, including time in a lead role.
Maintenance skills: Ability to troubleshoot and maintain equipment, use maintenance management software, and work confidently with current technology.
We’re proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package that supports your health, financial well-being, and professional growth—because we believe taking care of our team is essential to serving our community.
Health & Wellness
- Medical Coverage: 100% City-paid premiums for most plans, including family coverage
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Dental & Vision: Fully covered dental (Delta Dental) and vision (VSP) plans
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Family coverage fully covers dental and vision
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Prescription Drug Plan: Access to major retail and mail-order options
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Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Pre-tax savings for health and dependent care expenses
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Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Up to 8 free confidential consultations for employees and household members
Retirement & Financial Planning
- CalPERS Pension:
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2% @ 55 formula for “Classic” members (single highest year final compensation for individuals enrolled in CalPERS prior to 1/1/2013)
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2% @ 62 formula for “New” members (three year average final compensation for individuals enrolled in CalPERS after 1/1/2013)
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4th Level Survivor Benefit included
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Deferred Compensation:
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401(k) and 457 plans with Roth options
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City matches up to $75 per paycheck to 457
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City contribution of $30 per paycheck to 457
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Note: The City does not participate in Social Security; no FICA deduction except Medicare hospital insurance
Paid Leave & Holidays
- Annual Leave (AL):
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5.2 weeks/year to start (vacation + sick combined)
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Increases at 5 and 10 years of service
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Cash-out option available after one year
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Holidays:
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11 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday annually
Professional Development
Insurance Coverage
- Life Insurance:
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$101,000 employee coverage fully covered
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$5,000 dependent coverage fully covered
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Optional AFLAC Plans:
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Accident, cancer, hospital, and critical care coverage available
We also host a full calendar of employee appreciation events and activities to celebrate the incredible work our team does year-round.
This information is intended to give an overview of the benefits available to City employees. It is not intended to be a contract (expressed or implied), nor is it intended to otherwise create any legally enforceable obligations on the part of the City, its agents or its employees.
Click Apply and attach a current resume. Only fields marked with an asterisk (*) and the supplemental questionnaire are required.
- Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. First official review of applications will occur after July 22nd, 2026.
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Recruitment is open until the position is filled or 50 applications are received. Applicants are encouraged to apply promptly, as the posting may close at any time.
- Applications will be evaluated based on education, training, and experience
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Supplemental responses determine placement on the eligibility list
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Raters do not see your name, application, or resume
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Additional testing may include written exams, oral boards, and department interviews
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Veteran’s Preference requires submission of a DD214
- ALL OFFERS OF EMPLOYMENT ARE CONTINGENT UPON:
- Passing a background investigation
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Passing a pre-employment physical and/or drug screen, if applicable
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Providing (3) professional references, including (1) direct supervisor
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Providing copies of degree(s), training certifications/licenses listed on application/resume
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5-year Verification of employment
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance in the selection process, please notify the Human Resources Division, in writing.
City of Simi Valley is an Equal Opportunity Employer Encouraging Workforce Diversity.
