City of Pasadena, CA
Senior Systems Engineer/Administrator
City of Pasadena, CA, Pasadena, California, United States, 91122
Salary :
$131,744.00 - $164,679.00 Annually Location :
City of Pasadena, CA Job Type:
Full -Time Job Number:
26-041 Department:
Water & Power Opening Date:
09/18/2025 Closing Date:
10/9/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
The City of Pasadena Water and Power Department (PWP) is seeking an experienced Senior Systems Engineer/Administrator to manage and support PWP's Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) systems. This role is responsible for the planning, engineering, and administration of enterprise servers, data storage, OT networks, and core software systems. The position serves as a technical expert and advisor on complex infrastructure, system software, security, and disaster recovery, and acts as project lead for large-scale implementations, upgrades, conversions, and infrastructure changes. Performs related duties as assigned.
Learn more about working for the Pasadena Water and Power Department IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with utility operational technology systems, including SCADA, PI System, unified security platforms, private networks, and server virtualization, and be able to work independently with minimal supervision. They will be responsible for implementing, configuring, upgrading, administering, and supporting these systems. The role also involves collaborating with other support team members to ensure efficient and reliable system communication.
Essential Functions The major responsibilities of this position are listed below. For more detailed information, please review the Leads development of enterprise-level strategies for server, storage, network, software, and OT systems, ensuring scalability, reliability, and future readiness. Designs, implements, and maintains Water Utility Ignition SCADA interfaces, modules, HMI applications, PLC programming, telemetry communications, alarm management, and real-time data acquisition for water distribution and treatment operations. Administers and optimizes PI System components (Data Archive, AF, PI Vision, OPC/Modbus interfaces), design tags, models, calculations, dashboards, and reports, and integrate with external systems (SQL, CMMS, GIS) to support operational visibility and decision-making. Administers Windows Server environments, virtualization platforms (Nutanix AHV, VMware, Hyper-V), and secure ICS/SCADA network architectures with VLANs, firewalls, and DMZ configurations; implements failover, disaster recovery, and high-availability solutions. Develop automation scripts (PowerShell, Python, VBScript), designs system integrations (OPC UA, MQTT, REST APIs, SQL), and implements automated alerts, validations, and reporting to enhance operational intelligence. Applies ICS/SCADA cybersecurity best practices (NIST 800-82, AWWA G430), maintain patching, logging, access control, and incident response protocols within OT environments. Leads SCADA, historian, and OT projects from planning through implementation, mentors junior engineers, fosters collaboration across operations, IT, and field teams, and communicates technical requirements clearly to stakeholders. Configures, maintains, and monitors Genetec Security System infrastructure, including servers, storage, cameras, and access controls, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. Documents systems, changes, and procedures in line with best practices and change management protocols. Performs related duties as assigned
Qualification Guidelines COMPENTENICES
The following list represents the core competencies needed for success in this position. Adaptability - Responding positively to change and modifying behavior as the situation requires
Attention to Detail - Focusing on the details of work content, work steps, and final work products
Self-Management - Showing personal organization, self-discipline, and dependability
Business Process Analysis - Defining, assessing, and improving operational processes and workflow
Oral Communication - Engaging effectively in dialogue
Leveraging Technology - Applying technology for improvements in organizational efficiency and effectiveness
Analyzing & Interpreting Data - Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data
Critical Thinking - Analytically and logically evaluating information, propositions, and claims
Professional & Technical Expertise - Applying technical subject matter to the job
Using Technology - Working with electronic hardware and software application EDUCATION
AND
EXPERIENCE
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in management information systems, computer science or a closely related field, Six years of progressively responsible experience in administration of a complex multi-platform server operating systems environment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. SELECTION
PROCESS The tentative selection process will consist of a training and experience evaluation, a panel interview, and a department-level interview.
VACANCY
INFORMATION
There is currently one vacancy in the Water and Power Department. The resulting eligibility list from this recruitment may be used to fill this vacancy and similar vacancies in the future.
Candidates selected for this position are subject to a one-year probationary work period.
Special Requirements Must possess a valid California Class C driver's license and comply with the City's Motor Vehicle Safety Policy during the course of employment
Certification as a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer and certification as a project manager are highly desirable. Effective January 1, 2013, new members to CalPERS or an agency with CALPERS' reciprocity or who have more than a six month break in service between employment in a CalPERS (or reciprocal) agency will be subject to the provisions of the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA) and will receive the 2% @ 62 benefit formula.
Employees who are current members of CalPERS or an agency with CalPERS' reciprocity, or who have less than a six month break in service between employment in a CalPERS (or reciprocal) agency and employment with the City will be enrolled in the 2.5% @ 55 benefit formula.
All employees are required to pay the full employee contribution to CalPERS.
Click link below to review the City's excellent benefits package
The City is closed on alternate Fridays and most staff observe a 9/80 work schedule. 01
Please describe your experience planning, provisioning, and supporting OT Systems. Please enter "N/A" for no experience. 02
Select the option that best describes your level of experience working with Utility SCADA.
Expert Moderate Basic No Experience
03
Select the option that best describes your level of experience working with PI Systems.
Expert Moderate Basic No Experience
04
Select the option that best describes your level of experience in Scripting, Integration and Automation
Expert Moderate Basic No Experience
05
Based on your answer to the questions 2, 3 and 4, provide specific examples that justify your self-assessment. Your answer should describe specific work experience and the agency in which you performed the work. (If you answered, "No Experience", enter "N/A") 06
Select the option that best describes your level of experience in Scripting, Integration and Automation
Expert Moderate Basic No Experience
07
Based on your answer to the above question, provide specific examples that justify your self-assessment. Your answer should describe specific work experience and the agency in which you performed the work. (If you answered, "No Experience", enter "N/A") 08
Select the option that best describes your level of experience in Networking and Infrastructure
Expert Moderate Basic No Experience
09
Based on your answer to the above question, provide specific examples that justify your self-assessment. Your answer should describe specific work experience and the agency in which you performed the work. (If you answered, "No Experience", enter "N/A") Required Question
$131,744.00 - $164,679.00 Annually Location :
City of Pasadena, CA Job Type:
Full -Time Job Number:
26-041 Department:
Water & Power Opening Date:
09/18/2025 Closing Date:
10/9/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
The City of Pasadena Water and Power Department (PWP) is seeking an experienced Senior Systems Engineer/Administrator to manage and support PWP's Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) systems. This role is responsible for the planning, engineering, and administration of enterprise servers, data storage, OT networks, and core software systems. The position serves as a technical expert and advisor on complex infrastructure, system software, security, and disaster recovery, and acts as project lead for large-scale implementations, upgrades, conversions, and infrastructure changes. Performs related duties as assigned.
Learn more about working for the Pasadena Water and Power Department IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with utility operational technology systems, including SCADA, PI System, unified security platforms, private networks, and server virtualization, and be able to work independently with minimal supervision. They will be responsible for implementing, configuring, upgrading, administering, and supporting these systems. The role also involves collaborating with other support team members to ensure efficient and reliable system communication.
Essential Functions The major responsibilities of this position are listed below. For more detailed information, please review the Leads development of enterprise-level strategies for server, storage, network, software, and OT systems, ensuring scalability, reliability, and future readiness. Designs, implements, and maintains Water Utility Ignition SCADA interfaces, modules, HMI applications, PLC programming, telemetry communications, alarm management, and real-time data acquisition for water distribution and treatment operations. Administers and optimizes PI System components (Data Archive, AF, PI Vision, OPC/Modbus interfaces), design tags, models, calculations, dashboards, and reports, and integrate with external systems (SQL, CMMS, GIS) to support operational visibility and decision-making. Administers Windows Server environments, virtualization platforms (Nutanix AHV, VMware, Hyper-V), and secure ICS/SCADA network architectures with VLANs, firewalls, and DMZ configurations; implements failover, disaster recovery, and high-availability solutions. Develop automation scripts (PowerShell, Python, VBScript), designs system integrations (OPC UA, MQTT, REST APIs, SQL), and implements automated alerts, validations, and reporting to enhance operational intelligence. Applies ICS/SCADA cybersecurity best practices (NIST 800-82, AWWA G430), maintain patching, logging, access control, and incident response protocols within OT environments. Leads SCADA, historian, and OT projects from planning through implementation, mentors junior engineers, fosters collaboration across operations, IT, and field teams, and communicates technical requirements clearly to stakeholders. Configures, maintains, and monitors Genetec Security System infrastructure, including servers, storage, cameras, and access controls, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. Documents systems, changes, and procedures in line with best practices and change management protocols. Performs related duties as assigned
Qualification Guidelines COMPENTENICES
The following list represents the core competencies needed for success in this position. Adaptability - Responding positively to change and modifying behavior as the situation requires
Attention to Detail - Focusing on the details of work content, work steps, and final work products
Self-Management - Showing personal organization, self-discipline, and dependability
Business Process Analysis - Defining, assessing, and improving operational processes and workflow
Oral Communication - Engaging effectively in dialogue
Leveraging Technology - Applying technology for improvements in organizational efficiency and effectiveness
Analyzing & Interpreting Data - Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data
Critical Thinking - Analytically and logically evaluating information, propositions, and claims
Professional & Technical Expertise - Applying technical subject matter to the job
Using Technology - Working with electronic hardware and software application EDUCATION
AND
EXPERIENCE
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in management information systems, computer science or a closely related field, Six years of progressively responsible experience in administration of a complex multi-platform server operating systems environment; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. SELECTION
PROCESS The tentative selection process will consist of a training and experience evaluation, a panel interview, and a department-level interview.
VACANCY
INFORMATION
There is currently one vacancy in the Water and Power Department. The resulting eligibility list from this recruitment may be used to fill this vacancy and similar vacancies in the future.
Candidates selected for this position are subject to a one-year probationary work period.
Special Requirements Must possess a valid California Class C driver's license and comply with the City's Motor Vehicle Safety Policy during the course of employment
Certification as a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer and certification as a project manager are highly desirable. Effective January 1, 2013, new members to CalPERS or an agency with CALPERS' reciprocity or who have more than a six month break in service between employment in a CalPERS (or reciprocal) agency will be subject to the provisions of the Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2013 (PEPRA) and will receive the 2% @ 62 benefit formula.
Employees who are current members of CalPERS or an agency with CalPERS' reciprocity, or who have less than a six month break in service between employment in a CalPERS (or reciprocal) agency and employment with the City will be enrolled in the 2.5% @ 55 benefit formula.
All employees are required to pay the full employee contribution to CalPERS.
Click link below to review the City's excellent benefits package
The City is closed on alternate Fridays and most staff observe a 9/80 work schedule. 01
Please describe your experience planning, provisioning, and supporting OT Systems. Please enter "N/A" for no experience. 02
Select the option that best describes your level of experience working with Utility SCADA.
Expert Moderate Basic No Experience
03
Select the option that best describes your level of experience working with PI Systems.
Expert Moderate Basic No Experience
04
Select the option that best describes your level of experience in Scripting, Integration and Automation
Expert Moderate Basic No Experience
05
Based on your answer to the questions 2, 3 and 4, provide specific examples that justify your self-assessment. Your answer should describe specific work experience and the agency in which you performed the work. (If you answered, "No Experience", enter "N/A") 06
Select the option that best describes your level of experience in Scripting, Integration and Automation
Expert Moderate Basic No Experience
07
Based on your answer to the above question, provide specific examples that justify your self-assessment. Your answer should describe specific work experience and the agency in which you performed the work. (If you answered, "No Experience", enter "N/A") 08
Select the option that best describes your level of experience in Networking and Infrastructure
Expert Moderate Basic No Experience
09
Based on your answer to the above question, provide specific examples that justify your self-assessment. Your answer should describe specific work experience and the agency in which you performed the work. (If you answered, "No Experience", enter "N/A") Required Question