County of San Luis Obispo, CA
Water Systems Worker Trainee/I/II/III
County of San Luis Obispo, CA, Paso Robles, California, us, 93447
Salary :
$47,611.20 - $101,296.00 Annually Location :
North County (e.g. Atascadero/Paso Robles), CA Job Type:
Permanent - Hourly Job Number:
0925PM-009629-01 Department:
Public Works Division:
40510 PW Utilities Division Opening Date:
09/04/2025 Closing Date:
9/18/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
About the Position The anticipated salary range for hire is $47,611.20 - $78,790.40
annually based on experience. The top of the range for salary advancement is $101,296.00. The position will be working in the scenic Northern Sections of San Luis Obispo County from the Santa Margarita Booster Station. The position will learn to operate and maintain the Nacimiento Water Project (NWP). The NWP conveys raw water to five turnouts, City of Paso Robles, Templeton Community Services District, Atascadero Mutual Water Company, Santa Margarita Ranch and the City of San Luis Obispo. Water is delivered via a 45-mile transmission main with three storage tanks and three pump stations. The pump stations are remotely monitored using SCADA and have redundant pumps and motors at each site. Classes in this series perform a wide variety of unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled work in all phases of the operation, maintenance, repair, and light construction activities associated with potable water treatment, wastewater treatment, water distribution, collection and disposal systems; and perform other related work as required. Incumbents may work in one or more of the following areas: (a) potable water treatment operations; (b) wastewater treatment operations; or (c) water distribution operations, water supply and wastewater collection and dam and flood control operations Typical Tasks and Representative Duties
(Not in order of importance) • Operates pumps, motors, valves, gates, meters and other hydraulic structures to regulate water quality, quantity and distribution; including dam and flood control systems. • Installs, calibrates, inspects, repairs and performs routine maintenance on pumps, motors, valves, fire hydrants, pipes and related equipment; assists in the installation of water and sewer mains. • Maintains knowledge of regulations and operations of potable water treatment, wastewater treatment and distribution through continuing education requirements and maintaining appropriate certifications for job class. • Operates various hand and power tools, motorized vehicles, forklifts, tractors, boats and other equipment as required • Collects water samples, performs laboratory tests and makes recommended adjustments as required. • Inspects and maintains all water and wastewater unit processes at assigned facilities including; filters, clarifiers, digesters, aerators, flocculators and lift stations. • Reads, monitors and records information resulting from water sample testing, process controls, automated control systems and telemetry devices. • Records observations of plant equipment and environmental factors that may affect plant operation and performance. • Reads water meters and turns-on and turns-off service as directed. • Performs general housekeeping and grounds maintenance at assigned facilities. • Follows all safety procedures and properly uses personal protective equipment, including respiratory devices, as required. • Responds to requests for on-call, holiday, weekend, and after-hours support for plant operations. • Provides training and direction to subordinate staff as required. • Makes chemical adjustments, changes flow rates and other adjustments to regulate water quality and quantity. • Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of employment. Job Perks: Up to 4 Weeks of Vacation (DOE) Generous Benefits Package -
Click here! Other Incentives/Benefits -
Click here!
Click here
to view detailed job description for Water Systems Worker Trainee.
Click here
to view detailed job description for Water Systems Worker I.
Click here
to view detailed job description for Water Systems Worker II.
Click here
to view detailed job description for Water Systems Worker III. Click here
to learn more about the Public Works Water Utilities Division. For more information regarding the Public Works Department, please visit our website at
Public Works - County of San Luis Obispo Note: This recruitment may be used to fill future permanent, substitute, limited term, and temporary positions, both full-time and part-time throughout the County.
The Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate will have knowledge of operation of pumps, motors, valves, meters and hydraulic equipment; basic equipment maintenance and repair; general plumbing, electrical and construction methods; water sampling and laboratory testing; data collection systems and computer software; regulations and practices of water treatment, distribution and wastewater treatment facilities; water system equipment, procedures and terminology; reading comprehension and basic mathematical computations; accepted methods of employee training and leadership; and safety guidelines and procedures.
The ideal candidate will have the ability to operate and maintain a variety of pumps, motors, valves, meters and related equipment; complete standardized reports to record plant operations and conditions; inspect and repair plant equipment; operate a variety of hand and power tools; perform routine laboratory tests and interpret results; understand and follow written and verbal instructions; operate trucks, forklifts and other related equipment; handle hazardous chemicals safely and within established guidelines; operate automated control systems, telemetry equipment, computers and assigned software; and establish and maintain effective relationships with others. Education and Experience
All levels: Graduation from high school or possession of a general educational development (GED) certificate. Water Systems Worker Trainee: No experience required.
Water Systems Worker I: One year of experience as Water Systems Worker Trainee or equivalent position.
Water Systems Worker II: One year of experience as Water Systems Worker I or equivalent position.
Water Systems Worker III: One year of experience as a Water Systems Worker II or equivalent position. Licenses and Certificates
A valid driver's license is required at the time of application. A valid CALIFORNIA driver's license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment. Water Systems Worker Trainee: No certificate required. Within 12 months of appointment must possess either a T1 or D1 operator certification.
Water Systems Worker I: Possession of both T1 and D1 Operator Certifications at time of appointment.
Water Systems Worker II: Possession of both T2 and D2 Operator Certifications at time of appointment.
Water Systems Worker III: Possession of both T3 and D2 Operator Certifications at time of appointment. Definitions:
T1, T2, T3 = Potable water treatment certification - levels 1, 2, 3
D1, D2 = Distribution water treatment certification - levels 1, 2 How to Apply Applications, including answers to supplemental questions, must be submitted online by the final filing date. Apply for this position at
governmentjobs.com/careers/slocountyca . Most County recruitments require you to respond to supplemental questions as part of the application process. We recommend that you review these questions prior to beginning your application. An initial application review will be conducted. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and are best qualified will be invited to participate in selection activities which may include online assessments, performance exams, written exams, and interviews. Final candidates will be required to have an in-depth background review performed before proceeding in the process. Please note that references will not be contacted until the end of the process. If you have questions or would like to discuss the opportunity further, please contact Human Resources at
hr@co.slo.ca.us . Confidential inquiries are welcomed. For further information regarding the County of San Luis Obispo, visit our website at
www.slocounty.ca.gov . Supplemental Information Other Specifications Some positions in this classification may be assigned to facilities which require additional certification. Each recruitment will indicate the license or certification, program responsibility and specific experience required to fill an existing vacancy based upon the needs of the County. Must be willing and able to work alternating shifts and weekend work to provide coverage after normal workday or irregular and on-call emergency requests on nights, weekends, and holidays. Must successfully pass initial and recurring respiratory fitness test. Based upon work location or assignment, incumbents may be required to keep hair and facial hair consistent with the ability to ensure proper use of safety equipment. Reasonable Accommodation Notice Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment. Please call 805-781-5959 for assistance or e-mail
hr@co.slo.ca.us
for more information.
Veteran's Preference Points If you are applying for employment with the County of San Luis Obispo and you served in the United States Armed Forces, you may be eligible for veteran's preference points as part of the recruitment process. Some dependents and survivors of eligible veterans may also be eligible for preference points. for more information and to learn how to apply for this benefit. Please note that Veteran's credits must be on file with the County of San Luis Obispo Veterans Services Office prior to the recruitment closing date indicated on the job announcement.
Equal Employment Opportunity The County is an equal opportunity employer. Objectives are directed toward assuring equal opportunity in selection / promotion, pay, and job assignments. Recruitment and selection procedures have been established to ensure non-discrimination on the basis of political or religious opinions or affiliations, age, sex, race, color, national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or other non-merit factors. In addition, the County complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act in hiring and retaining employees. For more information contact the Human Resources Department at (805)781-5959. Make a Difference Employees of the County of San Luis Obispo are public servants who impact the lives of our community every day. From supporting efforts to reduce homelessness, keeping our drinking water clean, or serving the families in need in the community, County employees make a difference. Compensation and Benefits Your annual salary is supplemented by a generous benefit package.
For additional information regarding the benefits listed that may be available to you, visit the associated .
Some benefits include: - Medical (PPO, EPO, HDHP), Dental (HMO, PPO) and Vision Insurance - Health enhancing programs such as Hinge Health, GIThrive and Carrum Health for medical enrollees. - Cafeteria (County contribution to pay for insurance premiums) - Free visits to the employee health clinic - Mental Health resources/benefits including Headspace - Voluntary insurance plans (life insurance, disability, critical illness and many more) - A lifelong retirement benefit through the San Luis Obispo County Pension Trust - Optional deferred compensation plan - Tax savings accounts (medical and dependent care) - Paid personal, sick and vacation days - 12 paid holidays - Employee Assistance Program - Education and Wellness Allowance - Post Employment Health Plan - Family Friendly workplace policies - Flexible work schedule options -Rideshare commuter benefits - Pet Insurance The County of San Luis Obispo has been recognized as a Diamond Level Family Friendly Workplace by San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce. We support our employees through: childcare assistance, flexible scheduling practices, paid and unpaid leave, comprehensive health benefits, flexible spending accounts, and employee assistance programs.
Pension Benefit and Employee Contribution Rates: The County's pension is a defined benefit plan that provides a guaranteed monthly pension payment for life based on your time in service, wages, and other factors. The County is the primary contributor to the pension fund, but the health of the pension fund also depends on mandatory employee contributions. Employees are required to pay a percentage of their base pay towards the pension fund, ranging from 5% to 19%. This amount is deducted from your paycheck pre-tax every pay period. To find out how much will be deducted from your paycheck should you be hired for this position, please contact Pension Trust at (805) 781-5465.
Healthcare Benefits and Cafeteria Contributions: The County offers comprehensive medical coverage to you and your family, along with two dental plan options and vision coverage. All permanent employees receive a monthly employer contribution (or 'cafeteria' contribution) to help them pay for their portion of the medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums. The amount of the cafeteria contribution varies by Bargaining Unit (BU) and the extent to which employees enroll their dependents. If the cafeteria amount is greater than your selected premiums, the remainder of the cafeteria is paid out to you in your paycheck as taxable income. If the cafeteria amount is less than your monthly premiums, you pay the remainder of the premiums with pre-tax wages.
To estimate your out-of-pocket costs (or cashback from extra cafeteria),
Learning and Development The County prioritizes your learning, personal and professional development, and career growth. Employees have access to over 1500 on-demand courses, instructor led courses, and job-specific trainings.
Employees can take courses to upskill to make themselves more competitive for promotional opportunities and further their career growth. Examples of courses include:
- Emotional Intelligence - Supervisor/Manager academies - Microsoft Suite courses - Defensive Driving - Financial management - Retirement preparedness - Teambuilding - Written Communication - Conflict Management - Clifton StrengthsFinder and DISC - Job specific conferences/trainings
Student Loan Forgiveness Did you know that if you are employed by a government agency you may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program County employees also have access to GotZoom, a program that offers tools and support to navigate your federal student loans.
Homebuyer assistance program Employees have access to the "Assist-to-Own" program sponsored by to get a loan for the down payment. 01
Please provide a brief overview of your experience as it relates to this role. If you have any work experience in general construction, potable water treatment systems (groundwater wells and/or water treatment plant), or potable water distribution systems, please be sure to include it here. 02
Please list any T1, D1, or higher-level Certifications you hold. 03
This recruitment will be used to establish an eligibility list for permanent and temporary positions. Please select below which opportunities you are interested in.
I am only interested in permanent positions. I am interested in permanent or temporary positions.
Required Question
$47,611.20 - $101,296.00 Annually Location :
North County (e.g. Atascadero/Paso Robles), CA Job Type:
Permanent - Hourly Job Number:
0925PM-009629-01 Department:
Public Works Division:
40510 PW Utilities Division Opening Date:
09/04/2025 Closing Date:
9/18/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
About the Position The anticipated salary range for hire is $47,611.20 - $78,790.40
annually based on experience. The top of the range for salary advancement is $101,296.00. The position will be working in the scenic Northern Sections of San Luis Obispo County from the Santa Margarita Booster Station. The position will learn to operate and maintain the Nacimiento Water Project (NWP). The NWP conveys raw water to five turnouts, City of Paso Robles, Templeton Community Services District, Atascadero Mutual Water Company, Santa Margarita Ranch and the City of San Luis Obispo. Water is delivered via a 45-mile transmission main with three storage tanks and three pump stations. The pump stations are remotely monitored using SCADA and have redundant pumps and motors at each site. Classes in this series perform a wide variety of unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled work in all phases of the operation, maintenance, repair, and light construction activities associated with potable water treatment, wastewater treatment, water distribution, collection and disposal systems; and perform other related work as required. Incumbents may work in one or more of the following areas: (a) potable water treatment operations; (b) wastewater treatment operations; or (c) water distribution operations, water supply and wastewater collection and dam and flood control operations Typical Tasks and Representative Duties
(Not in order of importance) • Operates pumps, motors, valves, gates, meters and other hydraulic structures to regulate water quality, quantity and distribution; including dam and flood control systems. • Installs, calibrates, inspects, repairs and performs routine maintenance on pumps, motors, valves, fire hydrants, pipes and related equipment; assists in the installation of water and sewer mains. • Maintains knowledge of regulations and operations of potable water treatment, wastewater treatment and distribution through continuing education requirements and maintaining appropriate certifications for job class. • Operates various hand and power tools, motorized vehicles, forklifts, tractors, boats and other equipment as required • Collects water samples, performs laboratory tests and makes recommended adjustments as required. • Inspects and maintains all water and wastewater unit processes at assigned facilities including; filters, clarifiers, digesters, aerators, flocculators and lift stations. • Reads, monitors and records information resulting from water sample testing, process controls, automated control systems and telemetry devices. • Records observations of plant equipment and environmental factors that may affect plant operation and performance. • Reads water meters and turns-on and turns-off service as directed. • Performs general housekeeping and grounds maintenance at assigned facilities. • Follows all safety procedures and properly uses personal protective equipment, including respiratory devices, as required. • Responds to requests for on-call, holiday, weekend, and after-hours support for plant operations. • Provides training and direction to subordinate staff as required. • Makes chemical adjustments, changes flow rates and other adjustments to regulate water quality and quantity. • Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of employment. Job Perks: Up to 4 Weeks of Vacation (DOE) Generous Benefits Package -
Click here! Other Incentives/Benefits -
Click here!
Click here
to view detailed job description for Water Systems Worker Trainee.
Click here
to view detailed job description for Water Systems Worker I.
Click here
to view detailed job description for Water Systems Worker II.
Click here
to view detailed job description for Water Systems Worker III. Click here
to learn more about the Public Works Water Utilities Division. For more information regarding the Public Works Department, please visit our website at
Public Works - County of San Luis Obispo Note: This recruitment may be used to fill future permanent, substitute, limited term, and temporary positions, both full-time and part-time throughout the County.
The Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate will have knowledge of operation of pumps, motors, valves, meters and hydraulic equipment; basic equipment maintenance and repair; general plumbing, electrical and construction methods; water sampling and laboratory testing; data collection systems and computer software; regulations and practices of water treatment, distribution and wastewater treatment facilities; water system equipment, procedures and terminology; reading comprehension and basic mathematical computations; accepted methods of employee training and leadership; and safety guidelines and procedures.
The ideal candidate will have the ability to operate and maintain a variety of pumps, motors, valves, meters and related equipment; complete standardized reports to record plant operations and conditions; inspect and repair plant equipment; operate a variety of hand and power tools; perform routine laboratory tests and interpret results; understand and follow written and verbal instructions; operate trucks, forklifts and other related equipment; handle hazardous chemicals safely and within established guidelines; operate automated control systems, telemetry equipment, computers and assigned software; and establish and maintain effective relationships with others. Education and Experience
All levels: Graduation from high school or possession of a general educational development (GED) certificate. Water Systems Worker Trainee: No experience required.
Water Systems Worker I: One year of experience as Water Systems Worker Trainee or equivalent position.
Water Systems Worker II: One year of experience as Water Systems Worker I or equivalent position.
Water Systems Worker III: One year of experience as a Water Systems Worker II or equivalent position. Licenses and Certificates
A valid driver's license is required at the time of application. A valid CALIFORNIA driver's license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment. Water Systems Worker Trainee: No certificate required. Within 12 months of appointment must possess either a T1 or D1 operator certification.
Water Systems Worker I: Possession of both T1 and D1 Operator Certifications at time of appointment.
Water Systems Worker II: Possession of both T2 and D2 Operator Certifications at time of appointment.
Water Systems Worker III: Possession of both T3 and D2 Operator Certifications at time of appointment. Definitions:
T1, T2, T3 = Potable water treatment certification - levels 1, 2, 3
D1, D2 = Distribution water treatment certification - levels 1, 2 How to Apply Applications, including answers to supplemental questions, must be submitted online by the final filing date. Apply for this position at
governmentjobs.com/careers/slocountyca . Most County recruitments require you to respond to supplemental questions as part of the application process. We recommend that you review these questions prior to beginning your application. An initial application review will be conducted. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and are best qualified will be invited to participate in selection activities which may include online assessments, performance exams, written exams, and interviews. Final candidates will be required to have an in-depth background review performed before proceeding in the process. Please note that references will not be contacted until the end of the process. If you have questions or would like to discuss the opportunity further, please contact Human Resources at
hr@co.slo.ca.us . Confidential inquiries are welcomed. For further information regarding the County of San Luis Obispo, visit our website at
www.slocounty.ca.gov . Supplemental Information Other Specifications Some positions in this classification may be assigned to facilities which require additional certification. Each recruitment will indicate the license or certification, program responsibility and specific experience required to fill an existing vacancy based upon the needs of the County. Must be willing and able to work alternating shifts and weekend work to provide coverage after normal workday or irregular and on-call emergency requests on nights, weekends, and holidays. Must successfully pass initial and recurring respiratory fitness test. Based upon work location or assignment, incumbents may be required to keep hair and facial hair consistent with the ability to ensure proper use of safety equipment. Reasonable Accommodation Notice Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment. Please call 805-781-5959 for assistance or e-mail
hr@co.slo.ca.us
for more information.
Veteran's Preference Points If you are applying for employment with the County of San Luis Obispo and you served in the United States Armed Forces, you may be eligible for veteran's preference points as part of the recruitment process. Some dependents and survivors of eligible veterans may also be eligible for preference points. for more information and to learn how to apply for this benefit. Please note that Veteran's credits must be on file with the County of San Luis Obispo Veterans Services Office prior to the recruitment closing date indicated on the job announcement.
Equal Employment Opportunity The County is an equal opportunity employer. Objectives are directed toward assuring equal opportunity in selection / promotion, pay, and job assignments. Recruitment and selection procedures have been established to ensure non-discrimination on the basis of political or religious opinions or affiliations, age, sex, race, color, national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or other non-merit factors. In addition, the County complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act in hiring and retaining employees. For more information contact the Human Resources Department at (805)781-5959. Make a Difference Employees of the County of San Luis Obispo are public servants who impact the lives of our community every day. From supporting efforts to reduce homelessness, keeping our drinking water clean, or serving the families in need in the community, County employees make a difference. Compensation and Benefits Your annual salary is supplemented by a generous benefit package.
For additional information regarding the benefits listed that may be available to you, visit the associated .
Some benefits include: - Medical (PPO, EPO, HDHP), Dental (HMO, PPO) and Vision Insurance - Health enhancing programs such as Hinge Health, GIThrive and Carrum Health for medical enrollees. - Cafeteria (County contribution to pay for insurance premiums) - Free visits to the employee health clinic - Mental Health resources/benefits including Headspace - Voluntary insurance plans (life insurance, disability, critical illness and many more) - A lifelong retirement benefit through the San Luis Obispo County Pension Trust - Optional deferred compensation plan - Tax savings accounts (medical and dependent care) - Paid personal, sick and vacation days - 12 paid holidays - Employee Assistance Program - Education and Wellness Allowance - Post Employment Health Plan - Family Friendly workplace policies - Flexible work schedule options -Rideshare commuter benefits - Pet Insurance The County of San Luis Obispo has been recognized as a Diamond Level Family Friendly Workplace by San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce. We support our employees through: childcare assistance, flexible scheduling practices, paid and unpaid leave, comprehensive health benefits, flexible spending accounts, and employee assistance programs.
Pension Benefit and Employee Contribution Rates: The County's pension is a defined benefit plan that provides a guaranteed monthly pension payment for life based on your time in service, wages, and other factors. The County is the primary contributor to the pension fund, but the health of the pension fund also depends on mandatory employee contributions. Employees are required to pay a percentage of their base pay towards the pension fund, ranging from 5% to 19%. This amount is deducted from your paycheck pre-tax every pay period. To find out how much will be deducted from your paycheck should you be hired for this position, please contact Pension Trust at (805) 781-5465.
Healthcare Benefits and Cafeteria Contributions: The County offers comprehensive medical coverage to you and your family, along with two dental plan options and vision coverage. All permanent employees receive a monthly employer contribution (or 'cafeteria' contribution) to help them pay for their portion of the medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums. The amount of the cafeteria contribution varies by Bargaining Unit (BU) and the extent to which employees enroll their dependents. If the cafeteria amount is greater than your selected premiums, the remainder of the cafeteria is paid out to you in your paycheck as taxable income. If the cafeteria amount is less than your monthly premiums, you pay the remainder of the premiums with pre-tax wages.
To estimate your out-of-pocket costs (or cashback from extra cafeteria),
Learning and Development The County prioritizes your learning, personal and professional development, and career growth. Employees have access to over 1500 on-demand courses, instructor led courses, and job-specific trainings.
Employees can take courses to upskill to make themselves more competitive for promotional opportunities and further their career growth. Examples of courses include:
- Emotional Intelligence - Supervisor/Manager academies - Microsoft Suite courses - Defensive Driving - Financial management - Retirement preparedness - Teambuilding - Written Communication - Conflict Management - Clifton StrengthsFinder and DISC - Job specific conferences/trainings
Student Loan Forgiveness Did you know that if you are employed by a government agency you may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program County employees also have access to GotZoom, a program that offers tools and support to navigate your federal student loans.
Homebuyer assistance program Employees have access to the "Assist-to-Own" program sponsored by to get a loan for the down payment. 01
Please provide a brief overview of your experience as it relates to this role. If you have any work experience in general construction, potable water treatment systems (groundwater wells and/or water treatment plant), or potable water distribution systems, please be sure to include it here. 02
Please list any T1, D1, or higher-level Certifications you hold. 03
This recruitment will be used to establish an eligibility list for permanent and temporary positions. Please select below which opportunities you are interested in.
I am only interested in permanent positions. I am interested in permanent or temporary positions.
Required Question