Chief Plant Operator

City of Scotts Valley; Scotts Valley (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Scotts Valley is seeking a Chief Plant Operator to manage the wastewater treatment facility and collection system, ensure regulatory compliance, and lead operations, maintenance, and staff development.

The CPO will supervise operations personnel, develop SOPs, manage budgets, oversee SCADA/data systems, and serve as an LRO under SWRCB regulations, ensuring public health and environmental protection.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or equivalent and related degree.
• Minimum years of wastewater operations and supervisory experience.
• California certification requirements for wastewater facilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day facility operations, maintenance, and compliance.
• Lead staff, develop SOPs, and mentor operators-in-training.
• Direct process control, data analysis, and safety programs.
• Prepare technical and administrative reports for regulators and council.

Skills

Leadership

Supervisory experience

Operations management

Regulatory compliance

SCADA data systems

Budgeting & reporting

Communication

Safety program administration

Education

Associate’s degree in public health, chemistry, biology, environmental science, or related

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

SCADA systems

CMMS

WIMS

Job description

CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY

CLASS SPECIFICATION

CHIEF PLANT OPERATOR

JOB PURPOSE

The Chief Plant Operator (CPO) is responsible for managing and overseeing the day-to-day operations, maintenance, compliance, and administration of the City of Scotts Valley’s water reclamation facility and sewer collection system. This position ensures efficient treatment processes, adherence to regulatory standards, staff leadership, and long-term strategic planning. The CPO provides highly responsible and complex staff assistance to the Wastewater Division Manager, serves as the Chief Plant Operator as defined by State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) regulations, and is responsible for certifying compliance reports and serving as one of the Legally Responsible Officials (LRO). The CPO plays a key role in safeguarding public health, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

Leadership & Supervision

• Plan, schedule, supervise, and evaluate the work of operations staff in the treatment of wastewater and solids handling equipment.
• Develops, updates, and maintains standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training programs for operators, including mentoring Operators-in-Training (OITs) and ensuring compliance with certification supervision requirements.
• Select, train, mentor, and evaluate personnel; implement disciplinary actions as necessary.
• Promote a positive, safety-first workplace culture aligned with City/Department goals.

Operations & Compliance

• Direct all operational aspects of the facility, including treatment processes, pump stations, sewer collection systems, biosolids management, laboratory operations, and SCADA/data systems.
• Approve and oversee plant flows, process modifications, and emergency responses to ensure safety, efficiency, and effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, including SWRCB, Regional Water Quality Control Board, U.S. EPA, NPDES permits, and MBARD standards.
• Additional responsibilities include collection system management (manhole inspections, I&I reduction, SSMP compliance), and coordination with the Scotts Valley Water District or City Public Works Department on cross-functional projects.

Planning & Administration

• Assist the Wastewater Division Manager in developing and managing the facility budget, including forecasting and monitoring expenditures.
• Prepare technical and administrative reports, records, and correspondence for City Council, regulators, and community stakeholders.
• Participate in capital improvement planning and coordinate with the Wastewater Division Manager, engineering staff, and contractors on construction or major maintenance projects.
• Participate in public communication/outreach regarding odor control, spills, and other community concerns.

Process Control & Data Analysis

• Analyze operational and performance data; troubleshoot and resolve process issues.
• Implement process improvements and recommend technology upgrades to enhance safety, efficiency, and compliance.
• Oversee the use of SCADA and computerized data systems for facility operations and reporting. For example, Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to assign Work Orders, and Wastewater Information Management System (WIMS) to monitor plant data.

Safety & Emergency Response

• Enforce safety protocols and regulatory standards across all facility operations.
• Serve as a key responder for after-hours emergencies, holidays, and disaster conditions as needed.
• Develop and maintain emergency response procedures.
• Must maintain residency within 60 minutes of the facility to respond to emergencies, and participate in on-call duty if necessary.

General

• Performs other related duties as required to support the effective operation, maintenance, compliance, and administration of the wastewater treatment facility and collection system.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Education & Experience:

Graduation from high school or equivalent; and possession of an associate’s degree in public health, chemistry, biology, environmental science, or a closely related field; and

At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in wastewater treatment facility operations, including 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role;

OR, 7 years of experience in the operation of a California Grade 3 classified wastewater treatment facility incorporating preliminary, secondary (activated sludge), and tertiary treatment;

Certificates:

• Maintain a valid California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate, Grade III
• Maintain a valid California Class C Driver’s License
• California Water Environment Association (CWEA) Collection System Maintenance Certificate, Grade II or higher, desirable.

Knowledge of:

• Modern wastewater treatment principles, practices, equipment, materials, and tools used in the operation, cleaning, and preventive maintenance of wastewater treatment and disposal facilities and equipment.
• Safety codes, regulations, and occupational hazards in wastewater facilities.
• Basic mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic principles.
• Basic chemical and physical tests of wastewater, sludge, and related materials.
• Budgeting, procurement, and organizational practices.
• Applicable Federal and State laws; District, Department, and Division regulations, codes, policies, and procedures
• SCADA and process control technology.
• Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment, including a computer and applicable databases.
• Principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation.
• Familiarity with asset management practices to support long‑term planning of treatment and collection system infrastructure.

Ability to:

• Analyze operational data and troubleshoot complex process systems.
• Plan, direct, and coordinate staff and facility operations.
• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Prepare and present comprehensive reports.
• Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, regulators, contractors, and the public.

Working Conditions:

• Mix of office and field-based duties; frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Work involves exposure to noise, chemicals, confined spaces, hazardous conditions, and wastewater.
• Must be able to work under moderate to high stress, respond to emergencies, and serve as a disaster service worker under California law.
• Must be able to climb ladders, enter confined spaces, and wear SCBA equipment as part of essential duties. Must meet Cal/OSHA physical standards for respirator use, including fit testing and training.