Utility Operator I​/II​/III

City of Lathrop Utility Operator I/II/III

The level at which an individual is hired is based on their qualifications and experience.

This position is assigned to a 4/10 work schedule, currently Monday-Thursday, and will train into an on-call rotation schedule which may include weekends.

The application period will close 9/28/26, or when 125 applications have been received; whichever is first.

The Utility Operator I is the entry level class in the Utility Operator series that allows the incumbent to develop journey level knowledge and abilities. Initially, under immediate supervision, incumbents perform the more routine and less complex assignments within an established procedural framework where there are minimal consequences of error, including system maintenance and repair and customer service work. Incumbents are expected to perform the full scope of assigned duties.

This classification is alternatively staffed with Utility Operator II and incumbents may advance to the higher level after gaining experience, obtaining required water and wastewater certifications, and demonstrating a level of proficiency that meets the qualifications of the higher level class.

The Utility Operator II is the journey level class in the Utility Operator series in which incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of assigned duties. Incumbents perform a full range of duties related to the operation, maintenance and repair of the City’s water distribution, sewer collection, recycled water, and storm drain systems. This classification is distinguished from the next higher classification of Utility Operator III.

The Utility Operator III is the journey level shift operator classification in the Operator series. Incumbents perform a full range of duties related to the operation, maintenance and repair of the City’s water distribution, sewer collection, recycled water, and storm drain systems. Utility Operator III’s perform complex duties in connection with the operation, maintenance, and repair of groundwater treatment plants, water wells, and water storage facilities.

Work is performed independently, and may include acting as a lead worker with an assistant. Incumbents shall possess the ability to diagnose malfunctions in a variety of water quality processes. The position requires employees to perform a variety of specialized water quality testing and be skilled in working SCADA and HMI systems.

Under general supervision, learns to perform and performs the full array of duties assigned to classes in the Utility Operator series, including skilled and semi-skilled work in the operation, maintenance and repair of the City’s water distribution, sewer collection, recycled water, and storm drain systems; assists other units of Public Works in the maintenance of streets, facilities and buildings as needed;

demonstrates a full understanding of all applicable policies, procedures and work methods associated with assigned duties; performs other related duties as required.

Incorporated in 1989, the City of Lathrop is located in the Northern San Joaquin Valley and sits east and west of the San Joaquin River. Interstate 5, Interstate 205, and State Route 120 intersect within the city. We are located approximately 70 miles east of San Francisco and 70 miles south of Sacramento. Monterey, Santa Cruz, Napa Valley, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains are all located within 2 hours of Lathrop.

Lathrop is centrally located within a 30-minute commute of Tracy, Manteca, Stockton, Ripon, Lodi, Modesto, and Livermore.

The Department’s January 1, 2026, population estimates show Lathrop grew from 38,791 residents in 2025 to 40,942 residents in 2026, an increase of 2,151 people, or 5.5%. The report…