Chief Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

County of San Luis Obispo Public Works; Los Osos (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

County of San Luis Obispo Public Works seeks a Chief Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator to oversee operations of three treatment facilities, including Los Osos, Oak Shores, and County services. The role requires guiding staff, ensuring safety, and maintaining compliance with federal and state regulations.

The ideal candidate will lead independently, communicate effectively with teams, and uphold a strong service ethic to protect community water quality and public health.

Qualifications

• Leadership qualities with the ability to guide and mentor operations staff.
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with staff, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.
• Demonstrated accountability and decision-making in a critical utility setting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operations for three wastewater treatment facilities and related systems.
• Supervise, train, and provide technical support to operations staff to ensure compliance with federal and state requirements.
• Plan, coordinate, and direct activities to maintain safe, compliant, and efficient wastewater operations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Accountability

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

About the Position

The Public Works Department's Wastewater Utilities Division oversees the operation and maintenance of wastewater collection, treatment, disposal and recycled water distribution systems throughout San Luis Obispo County.

The Chief Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (CPO), under general direction from the Wastewater Systems Superintendent, is responsible for overall operations including planning, coordinating and directing all activities for the three wastewater treatment facilities operated by Public Works, including the Los Osos Water Recycling Facility, a 1.2 MGD Class IV facility; the County Service Area (CSA) 18 Country Club wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), a 0.1 MGD Class II facility; the CSA 7A Oak Shores WWTP, a 0.1 MGD Class I facility, and all associated collection, disposal, and recycled water systems. This position is designated as the chief plant operator as defined in the California Water Code, Division 7, Chapter 9, representing the County as the facility owner, including compliance with effluent limitations established in the wastewater treatment plant’s waste discharge requirements. The CPO supervises, trains, and provides technical support to the operations staff assigned at each facility to ensure compliance with all federal and state requirements.

The Ideal Candidate

The Wastewater Utilities Division is seeking a Chief Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator to perform duties with considerable independence, accountability, and decision‑making responsibilities. In addition to the technical strengths and experience necessary for plant operations, this position requires a leader who desires to make a difference in the health and well‑being of the communities of Los Osos, Oak Shores, and San Luis Obispo Country Club, and who can teach and inspire the same passion in a group of water quality professionals. Are you someone who can effectively communicate with people about what we do? Do you get excited about the prospect of growing and motivating your employees? Do you possess a relentless service ethic, a high level of personal accountability and want to join an organization dedicated to being a valued community partner enhancing the quality of life for our fellow county residents?

Education and Experience

A combination of education, training, and experience resulting in the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. An example of qualifying education and experience includes:

Graduation from high school or General Educational Development certificate (GED) AND: Three years of progressively responsible experience in the operation of a waste water treatment plant.

Licenses and Certificates

Possession of a valid SWRCB Grade 4 certification (Title 23 of the California Code of Regulations) or higher at time of application is required. Sustained certification, including any required continuing education units, is mandatory for continued employment. Failure to maintain the required certification will result in removal from the position.

This classification requires driving as an essential job function. A valid California driver's license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment.

Other Specifications

Other Conditions of Employment

• Must be willing and able to work alternating shifts and weekend work to provide coverage after normal workday or for irregular and on‑call emergency requests on nights, weekends, and holidays.
• May be subject to formal standby or around‑the‑clock operations as situations warrant.
• Must keep hair and any facial hair consistent with the ability to ensure proper use of safety equipment.