Wastewater Maintenance Worker I​/II​/III

Wastewater Maintenance Worker I/II/III – City of La Mesa

Position Summary: The City of La Mesa has one vacancy in the Public Works Department for a Wastewater Maintenance Worker at levels I, II or III, depending on qualifications.

• 5.0% increase effective July 1, 2026
• 5.0% increase effective July 1, 2027

Level Descriptions:

Performs routine maintenance tasks within a procedural framework established by higher‑level employees. Assignments are generally limited in scope.

Performs routine tasks with occasional instruction. Fully aware of operating procedures and policies. May be filled by promotion from Level I after one year of comparable experience.

Performs specialized or skilled maintenance, repair, and construction duties. Exercises independent judgment and may lead significant projects. Promotion from Level II requires at least two years of increasingly responsible experience.

• Perform semi‑skilled and skilled tasks in the construction, maintenance, and repair of City sewers and storm drains.
• Operate construction and maintenance equipment and hand & small power tools, performing preventive maintenance.
• Set up traffic control in high traffic areas, installing barricades and cones, and direct traffic around work sites.
• Break up paved surfaces, set forms, mix, pour, spread and finish concrete.
• Inspect ditches and drainage areas, removing vegetation with hand and power tools.
• Operate a combination truck, TV camera equipment, and other equipment in inspection, maintenance and construction of storm drains and sewer lines; perform confined space entry duties.
• Install, repair and maintain sewer lines and laterals; locate and repair breaks; review maps for manhole locations; repair or replace manholes.
• Read and interpret maps of underground drainage systems.
• Locate and mark underground utilities.
• Perform storm drain and flood channel maintenance duties; clean storm drains; clear debris from catch basins, storm drains and flood channels.
• Operate equipment in confined spaces, using air quality monitors and ventilators.
• Use proper safety precautions related to all work performed.
• Provide guidance and training to less experienced personnel; assist with daily supervision and completion of assigned duties.
• Lead a small group of workers on assigned projects, ensuring safe procedures and resolving unanticipated problems.
• Assist in maintenance projects outside the regular area, including buildings and parks.
• Provide courteous customer service, responding to general public inquiries and complaints.
• Respond to emergency call‑outs for street, sewer, storm drain or other public works maintenance work.
• Serve on standby duty on a rotating basis (usually 6 to 12 months after hire).
• Establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with contact persons in the course of work.
• Perform related duties as required.

• Level I: 1 year of maintenance and repair experience desirable; valid Class C driver’s license; must obtain Class B license with tank & air brakes within 6 months.
• Level II: 1 year of experience performing duties comparable to Level I; possession of Class B license.
• Level III: 2 years of increasingly responsible maintenance experience; possession of Class B license.

• Serve on a 7‑day, 24‑hour standby duty on a rotational basis; remain within cell‑phone contact.
• Undergo mandatory drug and alcohol testing.
• Provide written authorization for the City to contact prior employers for drug/alcohol testing history.

• Submit online application, cover letter, and supplemental questionnaire by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, February 2, 2026.
• Exam may include an appraisal interview and practical skills assessment.
• Schedule of events:
  • Recruitment closes:
    February 2, 2026
  • Practical Skills Assessment:
    February 18, 2026
  • Appraisal Interview:
    February 25, 2026

The City offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. For detailed benefits, refer to the La Mesa City Employees Association MOU.