Compost Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

THE POSITION: 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. Reporting to a Compost Facility Supervisor, these roles are essential to ensuring the efficient, compliant, and high-quality production of compost while maintaining a safe and well-functioning facility. In this hands-on position, you will play a key role in operating and maintaining a wide range of equipment and systems used throughout the composting process.

Responsibilities include monitoring and moving materials through various stages of production, performing routine inspections and minor equipment maintenance, and supporting facility cleanliness and operational readiness. As you progress through the series, you will take on increasingly complex duties, including operating heavy equipment, utilizing SCADA systems to monitor and control processes, and ensuring compliance with environmental and regulatory standards. This position offers a unique opportunity to develop technical skills in equipment operation, process control, and environmental compliance while contributing to sustainable resource recovery efforts.

IEUA is committed to fostering employee growth, offering clear pathways for advancement, and promoting a culture centered on safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement. EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE: A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills and abilities outlined above is: Graduation from high school or GED equivalent Compost Facility Operator I At least one year of progressively responsible experience in the operation of 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 in the operation of 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 A Compost Facility Operator II may be considered for advancement to Compost Facility Operator III after completing a minimum twenty-four (24) months as a Compost Facility Operator II at the Agency and demonstrating proficiency to perform the full range of duties of the latter class; obtaining the specified licenses, certificates and special requirements of the Compost Facility Operator III.

LICENSES; CERTIFICATES; SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Compost Facility Operator I A valid California Class C driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Agency's vehicle insurance program. Within 6 months of appointment and during the course of employment obtain and maintain the following: CPR and First Aid Certification Confined Space Certification Approved and qualified use of Respirator Forklift Certification In some assignments, the incumbent must possess and maintain: Weigh Master Certificate Compost Facility Operator II A valid California Class C driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the Agency's vehicle insurance program. Within six (6) months of appointment or promotion and during the course of employment obtain and maintain the following: CPR and First Aid Certification Confined Space Certification Approved and qualified use of Respirator Forklift Certification Within twenty-four (24) months of hire, promotion, or advancement, and during the course of employment, obtain and maintaintwoof the following: Certified Composting Professional (CCP) Certification from the US Composting Council (USCC) Certified Compost Operations Manager (CCOM) Certification from the US Composting Council (USCC) Machinery Lubrication Technician I Certification California Water Environment Association Mechanical Technologist Grade 1, 2, 3, or 4 Certified Maintenance Reliability Technician (CMRT) Certification In some assignments, the incumbent must possess and maintain one or a combination of the following: Boom Truck Fixed Cab Operator Certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators California Class A or B driver's license with air brakes and tanker endorsement.

Heavy Equipment I Certification Compost Facility Operator III A 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 Within six (6) months of appointment or promotion and during the course of employment obtain and maintain the following: CPR and First Aid Certification Confined Space Certification Approved and qualified use of Respirator Forklift Certification At time of hire, promotion, or advancement, and during the course of employment, obtain and maintain two of the following: Vibration Analyst I Certification Machinery Lubrication Technician 2 Certification Certified Compost Operations Manager (CCOM) Certification from the US Composting Council (USCC) 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 In some assignments, the incumbent must possess and maintain: Boom Truck Fixed Cab Operator Certification from the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators Skills and Abilities Ability to 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 to support a safe and compliant workplace. Basic knowledge of, or ability to learn, the operation of equipment such as loaders, conveyors, blowers, and other tools used in composting operations; desirable experience includes operating light to heavy equipment and familiarity with process monitoring systems such as SCADA.

Ability to perform routine cleaning, inspections, and minor maintenance tasks on facility equipment, with a willingness to develop skills in troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and equipment operation. Flexibility to adapt to changing work assignments, learn new processes, and respond to operational needs; desirable ability to assist with equipment issues or process adjustments to help maintain continuous operations. To view the full job description, please click the following links: 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) About Us The Inland Empire Utilities Agency is a regional wastewater treatment agency and wholesale distributor of imported water to approximately 950,000 people across 242-square miles in western San Bernardino County

Under the leadership of a directly elected five-member Board of Directors, the Agency is committed to supporting the needs of its service area and safeguarding public health through significant investments in a diverse water supply portfolio, reliable municipal/industrial wastewater collection and treatment services, and other related utility services in a regionally planned and cost-effective manner. As a member agency of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (Metropolitan), IEUA provides supplemental water supplies, primarily via the State Water Project (SWP) for distribution among nine retail agencies. IEUA also replenishes local groundwater supplies with captured stormwater and recycled water produced by IEUA that is later extracted by local water agencies for use as a drinking water supply.

At IEUA, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture that promotes growth, accountability, and collaboration. Our eight organizational attributes are the foundations of our success and guide us in our daily operations. Safety- We are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.

Continuous Learning and Improvement- Our commitment to professional development ensures that our team members are always equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. Efficiency- We strive to optimize our processes and resources to deliver the highest quality services in the most effective manner. Collaboration- By leveraging diverse perspectives and expertise, we create innovative solutions and drive our mission forward.

Accountability- By owning our responsibilities, following through on our commitments, and doing the right thing when no one is looking, we ensure that we meet our goals and uphold our standards of excellence. Coaching for Performance- Our leaders are committed to providing guidance and support to help team members reach their full potential. Respect- We value each individual's contributions and treat everyone with dignity and consideration.

Employee Engagement- By fostering a sense of belonging and purpose, we ensure that our employees are motivated and invested in our mission. Click the links to learn more about our Agency's Mission, Vision, and Values, including our Strategic Plan. SELECTION PROCESS: Applications for this recruitment will be accepted on a continuous basis.

The deadline for first review is Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM. Applicants are encouraged to apply early as this recruitment may close at anytime after the fire review period. There are two (2) vacancies in the Operations & Maintenance Department.

This recruitment is being conducted to fill two (2) vacancies and will establish an eligibility list which may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur during the active status of the eligibility list. 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) FLSA: Non-Exempt Probationary Period: 12 months All employment applications will be reviewed for accuracy, completion, relevant experience, education, training and other job-related qualifications. Applicants with the strongest background relating to the responsibilities of this position will be invited to participate in the testing process which may include one or more of the following: written test, oral interview, performance/practical examination

A second round of interviews may also be conducted. Communications regarding this recruitment will be sent by email, and candidates will need to monitor their inbox/spam/junk email folder regularly to ensure they do not miss any relevant communication. Any applicant requiring reasonable accommodation during the selection process due to a qualified disability must inform the Human Resources Office at (909) 993-1640 or hrdept@ieua.org at least 72 hours in advance of the need for accommodation

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. THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ANY PROVISION CONTAINED IN THIS BULLETIN MAY BE MODIFIED OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE.

"The Agency's success is obtained by creating a positive and diverse work environment which recognizes individual differences and experiences".