Water Distribution Supervising Operator

Description

The City of Livermore is currently accepting applications for the position of Water Distribution Supervising Operator. This recruitment will be open until filled. Therefore, apply early as recruitment may close at any time. For additional information about the position, please refer to the job announcement .

DEFINITION

Under direction, plans, organizes and supervises the Water Section in the Water Resources Division of the Public Works Department; coordinates work activities with other sections/divisions/departments; provides leadership, coaching and mentoring to assigned staff; and performs other duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

The Water Distribution Supervising Operator has primary responsibility for supervising the day-to-day functions of the section staff and workload. It is distinguished from the Water Distribution Operations Manager in that the Manager is the designated “Chief Operator” and has responsibility for managing the entire section providing for the development and implementation of section goals and objectives, establishing performance standards, developing and administering policies, procedures and program, and administering the section’s budget. It is further distinguished from the Senior Water Distribution Operator which is a lead and advanced journey level classification in the water distribution operator series and does not have full supervisory responsibility.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Direction is provided by the Water Distribution Operations Manager.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Provides supervision to all water distribution personnel assigned to the section including Water Distribution Operators Trainees, I, II, III, and Senior Operators, and temporary employees assigned to the section.

Examples of Important and Essential Functions

Supervisory Functions

Provides daily supervision to assigned employees; participates in the hiring, training and evaluation of employees assigned to the section; plans, prioritizes, monitors, and reviews the work of staff assigned to a variety of water distribution system operations duties; develops schedules and methods to accomplish assignments ensuring work is completed in a timely and efficient manner; works with employees to correct deficiencies; and provides and coordinates staff training; calls in staff as needed; adjusts work assignments of staff as needed; monitors timecards and all employee leave; prepares performance evaluations; evaluates operations and maintenance activities of section; develops benchmark standards for performance measures and promotes continuous improvement; and enforces safety codes and work practices, including safety training of all staff.

Operations and Maintenance Functions

Troubleshoots difficult and complex operational issues and resolves problems; performs comprehensive oversight of water distribution systems, and provides solutions; receives service requests and complaints from service users and the public, investigates and recommends or takes appropriate actions needed to respond; performs difficult and/or complex repair and maintenance work; operates mechanical and electrical equipment and related computerized and telemetry systems used in the control and monitoring of the flow amounts and reservoir levels; monitors gauges and meters and record meter readings; observes variations in operating conditions and adjust operations as appropriate; reviews manuals, diagrams, blueprints, and other equipment and system documentation; starts and stops electric driven pumps and motors to control and adjust flow, pressure and reservoir levels; inspects pump stations, power generators and all related facilities and equipment to assure effective operations are maintained; performs cross-connection control surveys, tests and inspection on potable and recycled water systems; identifies and diagnoses existing and potential repair requirements; prepares maintenance and repair service requests and recommends changes to preventive maintenance schedules and actions; assists external contractors and internal repair crews locate, evaluate, adjust, maintain, and replace equipment, systems, and facilities; follows Federal and State laws that govern the purveyance of potable and recycled water; ensures proper laboratory tests and reporting protocol are completed for water and recycled water distribution; works closely with field inspectors and contractors to ensure proper installation of distribution systems; and respond and make corrective action to water distribution system during off duty hours.

Administrative Functions

Participates in recommending and implementing section goals, objectives, performance standards, guidelines, and methods for assigned section; assists in the development, implementation, and administration of policies, procedures, and programs for the section; participates in department and City-wide committees; coordinates section activities with other sections, divisions or departments as well as external customers; monitors contracts and reviews work for City compliance; answers questions and provides information to the public and other City personnel; investigates operational complaints and recommends corrective action as necessary; implements, administers and maintains automated software systems related to operations; recommends annual equipment and material procurement to Water Distribution Operations Manager, Division Manager and Department head; implementation of improvements and modifications; prepares various reports on operations and maintenance activities; assists in the preparation and administration of the section’s budget; prepares cost estimates for budget recommendations and purchases of equipment and vehicles; and submits justifications for expenditures, and monitors and administers expenditures.

Job Related and Essential Qualifications

Demonstrated Knowledge of:

Principles and practices of technical and functional supervision and training; current and advanced principles, practices, and equipment applied to potable and recycled water distribution; Federal, State and local legal and regulatory requirements and related technical terminology used in potable and recycled water distribution processes and regulatory activities; general intent and specific application of administrative operating policies and procedures common to municipal water agencies; general design, basic construction, assembly and operational norms of water distribution lines, pressure reducing valves, meters, power generators, pumps, and controls; specific safety practices applicable to all aspects of water distribution systems and repairs.

Demonstrated Skills to:

Organize, implement and direct operations and maintenance activities; schedule, coordinate, supervise, train and evaluate assigned staff; communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing; exercise diplomacy and tact in controversial situations; assist in the development and monitoring of the section’s budget; effectively work with regulatory agencies; assist in development of policies and procedures related to assigned operations and maintenance; identify and interpret technical and numerical information; perform mathematical calculations to estimate materials for jobs; observe, problem solve, and research operational and technical policy and procedures and make sound recommendations; establish and maintain effective working relationships; utilize basic computer skills; maintain required work logs, records and related operational and maintenance data; prepare clear and concise written reports; manage databases and programs for the assigned section; exemplify an enthusiastic, resourceful and effective customer service attitude with all who are contracted in the course of the work; perform the most difficult and complex duties related to operation, maintenance and repair of a municipal water distribution system; evaluate problem equipment and operational systems, on a continuous basis; implement and comply with safety rules; identify safety hazards; interpret work orders; take water samples and perform standard laboratory tests; observe, interpret, and record measurements indicated on gauges, meters, and similar measuring devices; perform general maintenance on water distribution equipment and facilities; evaluate emergency situations and initiate timely corrective action; interpret and understand the contents of technical manuals, drawings, specifications, blueprints, layouts, and schematics; prepare summary or detailed reports involving narrative comment and statistical and financial data; instruct and train others in specific policies and procedures used in water distribution and equipment operations; perform basic mathematical calculations common to the work; and operate pump station control equipment, and safety devices.

Ability to :

Learn, interpret and apply City, department and division rules, regulations, policies and practices; establish and maintain effective communication with co-workers at all levels of the organization; and exhibit and instill in co-workers a high customer service priority.

Experience, Education, and Training Guidelines

Any combination of experience, education, and training that would provide the best qualified candidates. A typical way to obtain the knowledge, skills, and abilities would be:

Experience: Four years of experience in water distribution and operations performing California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Distribution Operator Grade III duties, with at least two years of lead level experience similar to a Water Distribution Senior Operator.

Education: Equivalent to graduation from high school, supplemented by specialized training or college coursework related to water distribution operation and maintenance.

Training: Any recent training such as academic courses and certification programs, which are relevant to this job classification.

Certification: Requires possession and maintenance of a California State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Distribution Operator Grade IV Certificate, a SWRCB Water Treatment Grade I Certification and an American Water Works Association (AWWA) Cross-Connection Control Specialist Certification at time of appointment. A SWRCB Water Treatment Grade II Certificate is required prior to the completion of the probationary period.

License: Possession of a valid California driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record as determined by the City of Livermore.

Other Requirements: Willingness and ability to work scheduled and emergency overtime; work outdoors in all weather conditions; work at night, in confined and awkward spaces, in heavy traffic, and in the presence of noxious odors, toxic chemicals, biological agents, and sewage; work in potentially hazardous areas; wear and use appropriate safety clothing and equipment, including self-contained breathing devices; and attend meetings, workshops, and seminars during work and non-work hours.

Special Requirements: Essential duties require the mental and physical ability to drive and operate equipment; detect odors and running water; identify mechanical noises; converse on the telephone, two-way radio, and in person, often over the noise of machinery; bend, stoop, climb, and stand for long periods of time; read fine print with no color deficiencies to detect color-coded wires and read results of water color tests; manipulate small parts and components; safely lift and maneuver equipment and supplies such as fire hydrants, water meters, grates, large PVC pipe, wire spools, meter boxes, jackhammers, and other equipment and supplies weighing up to 100 pounds; and safely wear self-contained breathing apparatus while entering and working in confined spaces.

Additional Information

The City of Livermore is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity.

CITY OF LIVERMORE
BENEFITS SUMMARY
Association of Livermore Employees

Please click here for a copy of the current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Association of Livermore Employees. The information contained here is a summary of benefits. For a more detailed summary of benefits for all employee groups, click here . Any errors or omissions do not constitute either an expressed or implied contract. Updated 10/2025

MOUTERM
10/01/2025 - 09/30/2029

SCHEDULED INCREASES
10/06/2025 5% + 1% (in recognition of rising medical costs)
10/05/2026 3% + 1% (in recognition of rising medical costs)
10/04/2027 3%
10/02/2028 3%

CAFETERIA PLAN (MEDICAL, DENTAL & VISION)
$1,950/month towards medical, dental, and vision; any unused portion of the employee's benefit amount will be added as taxable income to the employee's earnings. Effective 12/1/2025, ER will pay up to $100 per month towards the premiums for the dental and vision plans selected by the employee who is currently enrolled in a City medical plan.

BASIC LIFE INSURANCE & ACCIDENTAL DEATH & DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE (AD & D)
FT - $60,000 EE coverage or PT - $30,000 EE coverage, ER paid
$1,000 dependent coverage, ER paid

EE option to purchase $25,000 additional life insurance & supplemental life to $500,000 (not to exceed 5x annual earnings).

LONG TERM DISABILITY (LTD)
ER paid
60% of base monthly earnings to $5,000/month max. (180 day waiting period)

PERS
New City of Livermore EEs are enrolled in the 2% at 60 formula or 2% at 62 formula, depending on eligibility, as per AB 340.

Classic PERS Misc Member - 2% at 60

• Member Rate = 7% EE paid
• Employer Rate = 34.43% ER paid (includes unfunded liability; FY23/24)
• 36 consecutive months Final Comp
• Sick Leave Credit
• 4th Level 59 Survivor Ben.
• Military Service Credit

New PERS Misc Member - 2% at 62

• Member Rate = 7.5% EE paid
• Employer Rate = 34.43% ER paid (includes unfunded liability; FY23/24)
• 36 consecutive months Final Comp
• Sick Leave Credit
• 4th Level 59 Survivor Ben.
• Military Service Credit

MEDICARE (Hired after 3/31/86)EE paid 1.45%ER paid 1.45%

RETIREMENT HEALTH SAVINGS (RHS) ER contribution of 4% of base pay into RHS account.

VACATION ACCRUAL
Years of Service Accrual Per Year 1 80.6 2-5 120.12 6-10 135.98 11-15 160.94 16-19 180.18 20+ 192.4
Prorated for part-time EE.
Maximum accrual: 340 hours

HOLIDAYS & HOLIDAY-IN-LIEU PAY
Holidays: 12 observed holidays or in lieu day off or if work 2.5 times pay.
Holiday-In-Lieu Pay: EE's assigned receive 7.5% of base salary, paid per pay period

SICK LEAVE ACCRUAL
96.2 hours/year
Pro-rated for part-time EE

SICK LEAVE USAGE:

• FAMILY SICK LEAVE : For immediate Family Illness - ½ Annual Sick Leave Accrual.
• PARENTAL LEAVE : For non-birthing parent who becomes a parent due to adoption, foster care placement, or birth of a child - 48 hours
• BEREAVEMENT/ FUNERAL LEAVE (non-immediate family) : 3 regularly scheduled workdays of sick leave can be used for aunt or uncle.

BEREAVEMENT LEAVE
3 regularly scheduled workdays max for immediate family.

PERSONAL LEAVE
Full-Time: 16 hours per year
Pro-rated for part-time EE.

PREGNANCY LEAVE & FMLA/CFRA
EE may use accrued leaves in compliance with City Rules & Regs
Benefit provided as per regulations: Federal Family and Medical Leave Act, California Family Rights Act, and California Pregnancy Disability Act

DEFERRED COMPENSATION 457(b)
ER will contribute $75, $50, or $25 per pay period, with required matching contribution of $75, $50, or $25 by EE.

2025 Maximum :
Normal = $23,500
Age 50+ = $7,500
Catchup Limits = $46,000
Voluntary EE Participation

SECTION 125 PLAN
No ER contribution
2025 Maximum
Dependent Care*: Up to $5,000/year -- *See IRS Pub #503
Unreimbursed Medical: Up to $3,300/year

• Pre-tax Health Care Premiums
• FSA's for Dependent Care
• Unreimbursed Medical Expenses
• Other options offered by plan administrator

UNIFORM ALLOWANCE
$850 per year/ paid in equal amounts per pay period
For Public Safety Dispatchers, Senior Public Safety Dispatchers, Supervising Public Safety Dispatchers, Police Clerks, Senior Police Clerk, Supervising Police Clerk, Animal Control Officers, Police Identification Technician, Supervising Property and Evidence Specialist, Property and Evidence Specialist, Community Service Specialists, Crime & Intelligence Analysts, Supervising Crime & Intelligence Analyst, Crime Prevention Specialist, and Crisis Intervention Specialist.

SAFETY SHOE ALLOWANCE
Public Works Department employees that are required to wear safety shoes or boots, and employees in the Engineering Technician, Neighborhood Preservation Officer, and Building Inspector series who perform field work, shall be eligible for an annual Safety Shoe reimbursement of up to $225 per calendar year for the purchase of safety shoes.

PRESCRIPTION SAFETY GLASSES
Reimbursement of up to $150/year for purchase of safety prescription glasses for EEs working in locations where there is a risk of eye injuries.

SHIFT DIFFERENTIAL
EEs regularly assigned to city facilities operating 24/7 - $2.50/hour for all hours worked when assigned to a shift requiring EE work at least 4 hours between 4:00 p.m.- 6:00 a.m.

EQUIPMENT OPERATION
Public Works EEs: $12.00/day for EE who operates Class A vehicle, min of 50%+ operation/day.

STANDBY PAY
2 hours straight-time for standby on regularly scheduled work day
3 hours straight-time for standby on regularly scheduled days off and fixed City holidays

CALL BACK PAY
3 hours min @ OT rate for FLSA nonexempt. First 3 hours can't be taken as comp time but paid to EE.

WORK IN A HIGHER CLASS
If work min of 3 consecutive workdays, paid @ 5% differential or the minimum of the salary range of the higher classification.

COURT PAY/COURT CANCELLATION PAY
If in connection with EE's usual official duties, 3 hrs min @ OT, or 4 hrs min @ OT for those required to appear on normal day off or on graveyard shift.

SUPPORT SERVICES TRAINING OFFICER PAY
$90/pay period for full pay period while assigned.

BILINGUAL PAY
$75/pay period for those certified as competent at the conversational and written level. Must be identified by Department Head and approved by Admin Services Director, and used on the job.

$60/pay period for those certified as competent at the conversational level. Must be identified by Department Head and approved by Admin Services Director.

TELEPHONE PAY
20 minutes and for each minute exceeding 20 minutes at OT rate.

CELL PHONE ALLOWANCE
Standard = $40/month (if authorized)
See Administrative Regulation 36 for details.

COMMERCIAL DRIVERS' LICENSE PAY
$35/pay period with valid CA Commercial Driver's License and valid DOT medical card.

OT COMP & COMP TIME OFF
OT for > 40 hrs/week or > 8 hrs/day in a reg scheduled day or hrs in excess of those normally scheduled & worked/day @ 1 ½ x reg. pay or Comp Time in lieu of OT for FLSA nonexempt. Accrued Comp Time in excess of 100 hours must be paid out.

TUITION REIMBURSEMENT
75% reimbursement for tuition & books
For undergraduate studies, $4,000 FY max; $16,000 lifetime max
For graduate studies, $5,000 FY max; $10,000 lifetime max

LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS
100% reimbursement for required licenses and certifications

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Three (3) sessions per incident per family member. Unlimited telephonic consultations.

FLSA WORK PERIOD
168 hour pay period beginning Monday at 12:01 a.m., ending 7 days later on Sunday at 12:00 midnight. If an EE is not on this work week schedule, something must be in writing documenting EE's work week.

For WR Operator series : 168 hour period beginning Sunday at 12:00 midnight,
ending 7 days later on Saturday at 11:59 p.m.

PAY PERIODS
26 pay periods per year

Benefits listed are for regular full-time employees. Benefits are prorated for 30-hour and 20-hour employees.

ER = Employer
EE = Employee
FT = Full-Time
PT = Part-Time

Closing Date/Time: Continuous

• 

• City of Livermore

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