Compost Facility Operator I-III (DOQ)

Inland Empire Utilities Agency; Rancho Cucamonga (CA); On-site; USD 36,252 - 53,677; Full time

Job summary

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency seeks a motivated Compost Facility Operator I-III to support operations of its advanced composting facility. The role involves operating equipment, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Advancement opportunities are available based on experience and certifications.

Ideal candidates should have a high school diploma, relevant experience, and certifications. Work safely in an indoor environment. The position offers a salary based on experience level within the role structure.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent required.
• At least one year of experience operating construction-related tools for Operator I.
• Compost Facility Operator II requires two years of progressively responsible experience.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain composting equipment and systems.
• Monitor material flow through production stages.
• Perform routine inspections and maintenance on equipment.

Skills

Safety practices in composting

Operation of construction-related equipment

Adaptability to changing work assignments

Troubleshooting and preventive maintenance skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Compost Facility Operator Certificate

Tools

SCADA systems

Various Composting equipment

Forklift

Job description

The Opportunity

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency is seeking a motivated and safety-focused professional to join the team as Compost Facility Operator I-III (DOQ), supporting the daily operations of the Agency's state‑of‑the‑art indoor composting facility. The position involves operating and maintaining a wide range of equipment and systems used throughout the composting process, monitoring material flow through various production stages, performing routine inspections and minor equipment maintenance, and ensuring facility cleanliness and operational readiness. Advancement through the series involves increasingly complex duties, including operating heavy equipment, using SCADA systems for process control, and ensuring compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain equipment and systems used in the composting process.
• Monitor and move materials through multiple stages of production.
• Perform routine inspections and minor equipment maintenance.
• Support facility cleanliness and operational readiness.
• Operate heavy equipment and utilize SCADA systems to monitor and control processes (for higher levels).
• Ensure compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.

Education, Training, and Experience

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• Compost Facility Operator I – At least one year of progressively responsible experience operating construction‑related tools and equipment, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Experience in a public agency is preferred.
• Compost Facility Operator II – At least two years of progressively responsible experience operating construction‑related tools and equipment, including a front loader, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Experience in a public agency is preferred.
• Compost Facility Operator III – May be considered for advancement after completing a minimum twenty‑four (24) months as a Compost Facility Operator II and demonstrating proficiency in all duties of that level, as well as obtaining required licenses, certificates, and special requirements.

Licenses, Certifications, and Special Requirements

Compost Facility Operator I

• Valid California Class C driver’s license.
• CPR and First Aid Certification.
• Confined Space Certification.
• Approved and qualified use of respirator.
• Forklift Certification.
• Weigh Master Certificate (for some assignments).

Compost Facility Operator II

• Valid California Class C driver’s license.
• CPR and First Aid Certification.
• Confined Space Certification.
• Approved and qualified use of respirator.
• Forklift Certification.
• Certified Composting Professional (CCP) Certification from the US Composting Council.
• Certified Compost Operations Manager (CCOM) Certification from the US Composting Council.
• Machinery Lubrication Technician I Certification.
• California Water Environment Association Mechanical Technologist Grade 1, 2, 3, or 4.
• Certified Maintenance Reliability Technician (CMRT) Certification.
• Boom Truck Fixed Cab Operator Certification (for some assignments).
• California Class A or B driver’s license with air brakes and tanker endorsement (for some assignments).
• Heavy Equipment I Certification (for some assignments).

Compost Facility Operator III

• Valid California Class A or B driver’s license with air brakes and tanker endorsement.
• Machinery Lubrication Technician I Certification or higher.
• Certified Maintenance Reliability Technician (CMRT) Certification.
• CPR and First Aid Certification.
• Confined Space Certification.
• Approved and qualified use of respirator.
• Forklift Certification.
• Vibration Analyst I Certification.
• Machinery Lubrication Technician II Certification.
• Certified Compost Operations Manager (CCOM) Certification from the US Composting Council.
• California Water Environment Association (CWEA) Mechanical Technologist Grade 2, 3, or 4.
• Certified Maintenance Reliability Professional (CMRP) Certification.
• Certified Reliability Leader (CRL) Certification.
• Heavy Equipment II Certification.
• Infrared Thermography 1 Certification.
• Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan training.
• Ultrasound Certification 1.
• Water Supply Technology AA Certificate.
• Boom Truck Fixed Cab Operator Certification (for some assignments).

Skills and Abilities

• Work safely in an indoor composting facility environment, following established safety practices such as confined space procedures, lockout/tagout, and use of personal protective equipment.
• Basic knowledge of, or ability to learn, the operation of equipment such as loaders, conveyors, blowers, and other tools used in composting operations; experience operating light to heavy equipment and familiarity with process monitoring systems such as SCADA.
• Perform routine cleaning, inspections, and minor maintenance tasks on facility equipment; willingness to develop skills in troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and equipment operation.
• Adaptability to changing work assignments, ability to learn new processes, and response to operational needs; ability to assist with equipment issues or process adjustments to maintain continuous operations.

Salary Range

• Compost Facility Operator I – GU 172 ($36.2520 – $44.1693)
• Compost Facility Operator II – GU 174 ($39.9630 – $48.6909)
• Compost Facility Operator III – GU 176 ($44.0549 – $53.6775)

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Inland Empire Utilities Agency does not sponsor employment visas at the time of hire or during the course of employment. All applicants and employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout the duration of employment.