Chief Plant Operator

Salary : $ - $ Annually
Location : Wastewater - Scotts Valley, CA 95066, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 770-02
Department: Public Works Dept
Division: Wastewater Treatment Plant
Opening Date: 05/12/2026

Description
CITY OF SCOTTS VALLEY

CLASS SPECIFICATION
CHIEF PLANT OPERATOR

JOB PURPOSE

The Chief Plant Operator (CPO) is responsible for managing and overseeing the day-to-day operations, maintenance, compliance, and administration of the City of Scotts Valley's water reclamation facility and sewer collection system. This position ensures efficient treatment processes, adherence to regulatory standards, staff leadership, and long-term strategic planning. The CPO provides highly responsible and complex staff assistance to the Wastewater Division Manager, serves as the Chief Plant Operator as defined by State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) regulations, and is responsible for certifying compliance reports and serving as one of the Legally Responsible Officials (LRO).

The CPO plays a key role in safeguarding public health, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

Leadership & Supervision

• Plan, schedule, supervise, and evaluate the work of operations staff in the treatment of wastewater and solids handling equipment.
• Develops, updates, and maintains standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training programs for operators, including mentoring Operators-in-Training (OITs) and ensuring compliance with certification supervision requirements.
• Select, train, mentor, and evaluate personnel; implement disciplinary actions as necessary.
• Promote a positive, safety-first workplace culture aligned with City/Department goals.

Operations & Compliance

• Direct all operational aspects of the facility, including treatment processes, pump stations, sewer collection systems, biosolids management, laboratory operations, and SCADA/data systems.
• Approve and oversee plant flows, process modifications, and emergency responses to ensure safety, efficiency, and effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, including SWRCB, Regional Water Quality Control Board, U.S. EPA, NPDES permits, and MBARD standards.
• Additional responsibilities include collection system management (manhole inspections, I&I reduction, SSMP compliance), and coordination with the Scotts Valley Water District or City Public Works Department on cross-functional projects.

Planning & Administration

• Assist the Wastewater Division Manager in developing and managing the facility budget, including forecasting and monitoring expenditures.
• Prepare technical and administrative reports, records, and correspondence for City Council, regulators, and community stakeholders.
• Participate in capital improvement planning and coordinate with the Wastewater Division Manager, engineering staff, and contractors on construction or major maintenance projects.
• Participate in public communication/outreach regarding odor control, spills, and other community concerns.

Process Control & Data Analysis

• Analyze operational and performance data; troubleshoot and resolve process issues.
• Implement process improvements and recommend technology upgrades to enhance safety, efficiency, and compliance.
• Oversee the use of SCADA and computerized data systems for facility operations and reporting. For example, Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to assign Work Orders, and Wastewater Information Management System (WIMS) to monitor plant data.

Safety & Emergency Response

• Enforce safety protocols and regulatory standards across all facility operations.
• Serve as a key responder for after-hours emergencies, holidays, and disaster conditions as needed.
• Develop and maintain emergency response procedures.
• Must maintain residency within 60 minutes of the facility to respond to emergencies, and participate in on-call duty if necessary.

General

• Performs other related duties as required to support the effective operation, maintenance, compliance, and administration of the wastewater treatment facility and collection system.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Education & Experience:

Graduation from high school or equivalent; and possession of an associate's degree in public health, chemistry, biology, environmental science, or a closely related field; and

At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in wastewater treatment facility operations, including 2 years in a supervisory or leadership role;

OR, 7 years of experience in the operation of a California Grade 3 classified wastewater treatment facility incorporating preliminary, secondary (activated sludge), and tertiary treatment;

Certificates:

• Maintain a valid California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate, Grade III
• Maintain a valid California Class C Driver's License
• California Water Environment Association (CWEA) Collection System Maintenance Certificate, Grade II or higher, desirable.

Knowledge of:

• Modern wastewater treatment principles, practices, equipment, materials, and tools used in the operation, cleaning, and…