2

Entry Level Water Resource Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

This is the entry level class in the Utility Worker series. Positions in this class typically have ... Water Resources Control Board are required at the time of appointment for the Utility Worker II ...

Utility Worker I/II

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$66K - $95K/yr

This is the entry level class in the Utility Worker series. Positions in this class typically have ... Water Resources Control Board are required at the time of appointment for the Utility Worker II ...

Entry Level Water Resource information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$38.3K

$94.9K

$155.8K

How much do entry level water resource jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level water resource in Santa Rosa, CA is $94,897.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $120,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Water Resource professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Water Resource professional, you need a background in environmental science, civil engineering, or hydrology, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with GIS software, hydrologic modeling tools (such as HEC-HMS or SWMM), and data analysis platforms is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this field. These competencies ensure accurate data interpretation, effective project collaboration, and the delivery of sustainable water management solutions.

What types of projects can an Entry Level Water Resource professional expect to work on, and how do these projects contribute to their professional development?

As an Entry Level Water Resource professional, you can expect to work on a variety of projects such as watershed analysis, stormwater management design, environmental impact assessments, and hydraulic modeling. These projects often involve data collection in the field, report preparation, and assisting senior engineers or scientists with technical analyses. Working on diverse projects helps you develop a broad skill set and gain exposure to industry-standard tools and regulations. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams also provides valuable learning opportunities and can accelerate your professional growth within the water resources field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Water Resource vs Entry Level Water Quality Technician?

AspectEntry Level Water ResourceEntry Level Water Quality Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Environmental Science, Civil or Water Resources EngineeringBachelor's in Environmental Science, Chemistry, or Biology
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data collection, analysis, and planningLaboratory testing, field sampling, data recording
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, consulting firms, environmental organizationsWater treatment plants, environmental labs, regulatory agencies

Entry Level Water Resource roles focus on planning, managing, and protecting water systems, often involving fieldwork and data analysis. In contrast, Entry Level Water Quality Technicians primarily perform laboratory testing and sampling to ensure water safety and compliance. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

What are entry level water resource jobs?

Entry level water resource jobs are positions for individuals who are new to the water resources field, often requiring a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, civil engineering, hydrology, or a related discipline. These roles typically involve tasks such as data collection, environmental monitoring, assisting with water quality analysis, and supporting senior staff in project planning or regulatory compliance. Entry level professionals may work for government agencies, consulting firms, or non-profit organizations, helping to manage and protect water supplies, assess environmental impacts, and develop sustainable water management solutions.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Water Resource jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Entry Level Water Resource jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Entry Level Water Resource jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Entry Level Water Resource job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Water Resource job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,897 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

$66K - $95K/yr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Description The City of Healdsburg is recruiting for the position of Utility Worker I/II to join the Public Works Department. Placement of the individual at a particular level will be based on a combination of factors including education, experience, and certifications. The salary range for the Utility Worker I classification is $5,565.88 to $6,790.74

The salary range for the Utility Worker II classification is $6,517.07 to $7,921.55. Applications will be reviewed weekly. Interviews may be scheduled at any time until the positions have been filled

This recruitment may be closed at any time, without notice. Prompt application is encouraged. Utility Worker I Position Description: To perform a wide variety of skilled maintenance duties in the installation, construction, repair and maintenance of City facilities and water distribution and collection systems; and to provide maintenance support to an assigned supervisor.

This is the entry level class in the Utility Worker series. Positions in this class typically have little or no directly related work experience and work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks. The Utility Worker I class is distinguished from the II level by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the II level.

Incumbents work under immediate supervision while learning job tasks, progressing to general supervision as procedures and processes of assigned area of responsibility are learned. Receives general supervision from the assigned supervisor; and may receive technical and functional supervision from more experienced staff. Utility Worker II Position Description: This is the journey level class in the Utility Worker series and is distinguished from the I level by the assignment of the full range of duties.

Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new, unusual or unique situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the I level. The Utility Worker II is a journey level position that primarily provides repair and maintenance to the City's underground water and wastewater utilities.

Experience acquired from a similar role within another agency, prior employment with an underground construction company, or prior employment with a plumbing company is highly desired. Possession of a valid California Class A Driver License with airbrake and tanker endorsements, as well as possession of a Grade 2 Water Distribution Operator certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board are required at the time of appointment for the Utility Worker II classification. Receives general supervision from the assigned supervisor; and may receive technical and functional supervision from more experienced staff.

The successful candidate will be able to work independently; communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing; enter information into a computer and establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Employees with a Class A Driver's License will be enrolled in the City's DOT Random Drug and Alcohol Testing of Safety Sensitive Positions program, and may be subject to random testing. Examples of Duties Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following: Perform a wide variety of skilled maintenance duties in the installation, construction, repair and maintenance of City facilities and utilities including distribution and collection systems, streets, and storm drain, and reclaimed water systems.

Install, repair, maintain, and replace equipment used in water production and wastewater treatment facilities including the maintenance, repair, installation and/or replacement of mains; service lines, valves, lateral connections, hydrants and hydrant meters, pump and lift stations, other meters, and confined space entries as needed. Perform pump station maintenance and sewer main flushing, cleaning and disinfection, and storm drains, catch basins, culverts and gutter clean out duties. Perform maintenance on streets including potholes, manholes, signs, traffic lane markings, buttons and reflectors, barricades, curbs; set up traffic controls as needed; perform other duties including removing weeds and trees or other debris that has fallen or is obstructing.

Perform work both in the field and shop. Mark Underground Service Alert (USA) locations on City owned utilities including water, sewer, reclaimed water, storm drain and traffic signals. Perform water and electric meter readings and re-reads; place door tags and connect or disconnect water services.

Safely operate a variety of trucks, special equipment and vehicles including tractors, compressors, backhoes, loaders, concrete saws, jack hammers, rotor hammers, portable generators and water pumpers and a variety of heavy construction equipment, electric, hydraulic and gas operated power tools and hand tools; dig ditches, trenches and post holes; perform concrete and asphalt work; perform stand by emergency duties when needed. Perform detailed underground facility analysis and inspections of new and in-service wastewater and storm drain systems utilizing specialized Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) pipeline inspection equipment, associated machinery and software. Maintenance and repair of lift stations; excluding the required work of the specialized skill sets and training of the industrial group, such as, electrician, mechanic and instrumentation technician.

Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service. Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect. Be an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication.

Perform related duties as assigned. Typical Qualifications Knowledge of: Uses and purposes of general construction tools and equipment including basic power-driven equipment. Principles and practices of general construction and maintenance activities.

Methods and procedures of safe work practices. A wide variety of construction and maintenance materials, methods and terminology as they relate to public works and utility maintenance. Uses, purposes and operation of specialized trucks and heavy construction equipment.

Operation and safe use of a variety of specialized power-driven equipment performing skilled construction and maintenance work. Operation and safe use of CCTV pipeline inspection equipment, associated machinery and software. Methods and procedures for working in confined spaces.

Arithmetic sufficient to calculate volumes, areas, lengths, percentages and conversions. Methods to clean up, haul and dispose of materials and other relevant special OSHA rules and requirements. Relevant local, State, and Federal laws, rules and regulations related to area of assignment.

Ability to: Learn to perform a wide variety of maintenance duties in the installation, construction, repair and maintenance of City utilities including water distribution and collection systems. On a continuous basis, know and understand operations and observe safety rules; intermittently analyze problem equipment; identify and locate maintenance issues; interpret work assignments; remember tasks and daily assignments; and explain maintenance issues to other staff. Intermittently, sit while preparing reports; bend, squat, climb, kneel and twist when performing maintenance on a facility; perform simple and power grasping, pushing, pulling, and fine manipulation; and lift or carry weight of 90 pounds or less.

Operate a variety of basic electric, hydraulic and gas operated power tools and hand tools and wear appropriate breathing apparatus and other protective gear. Operate a variety of City vehicles. Work in a variety of conditions both indoors and outdoors and perform heavy manual labor and work in deep confined spaces.

Use sound judgment in recognizing scope of authority. Operate and use modern office equipment including computers and applicable software. Maintain regular attendance and adhere to prescribed work schedule to conduct job responsibilities.

Learn relevant local, State, and Federal laws, rules and regulations related to area of assignment. Utilize appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Work with various cultural and ethnic groups in a tactful and effective manner. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Perform a variety of skilled and semi-skilled tasks in general construction and maintenance activities.

Safely operate a variety of power tools, heavy construction vehicles and equipment to perform assigned duties. Read and interpret work orders, diagrams, blueprints and maps and plan and set up work. Take basic measurements and write clear reports and daily logs of work performed.

Perform standby. For Utility Worker I Experience and Training - Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: Some heavy manual labor and general construction or maintenance experience is desirable.

Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade. License and Certificate Possession of a valid California Class A Driver's License with Air Brake and Tanker Endorsements or apply for and successfully possess a temporary commercial license permit within six (6) months of employment and the subsequent attainment of a permanent commercial license within the following six (6) months. Failure to obtain or maintain such required license(s) may be cause for disciplinary action.

Possession of a Grade 2 Water Distribution Operator certificate from the California State Water Resources Control Board within one-year appointment or first two testing cycles allowed by the State. Possession of a Grade I Wastewater Collection System Maintenance certificate from the California Water Environment Association within one year of appointment. For Utility Worker II Experience and Training - Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be: Experience: Two years of responsible experience similar to Utility Worker I with the City of Healdsburg. Training: Equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade. License and Certificate Possession of a valid California Class A Driver License with airbrake and tanker endorsements is required at time of appointment.

Failure to obtain or maintain such required license(s) may be cause for disciplinary action. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered for accommodation on a case-by-case basis. Possession of a Grade 2 Water Distribution Operator certificate from the California State Water Resources Control Board.

Possession of a Grade I Wastewater Collection System Maintenance certificate from the California Water Environment Association within 6 months of appointment and a Grade II within 30 months of appointment. Supplemental Information HOW TO APPLY: Applicants must submit a clear, concise, completed online City Application along with any required supplemental application materials with the Human Resources Department by the filing deadline. If you do not submit your online application by the filing deadline, you will not be considered for this position.

Please note, applications may be rejected if incomplete. All applicants will be reviewed and only those candidates determined to be most qualified on the basis of experience, training and education, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process. Resumes, CVs and cover letters may not be reviewed as part of the application screening process, unless the application specifically requests supporting materials.

HELPFUL TIPS WHEN APPLYING: Your application information and your responses to the supplemental questions are evaluated and taken into consideration throughout the entire selection process. List all employers and positions held within the last ten (10) years in the work history section of your application. Be as thorough as possible when responding to the supplemental questions.

You may include history beyond ten (10) years if related to the position for which you are applying. If you held multiple positions with one (1) employer, list out each position separately. Failure to follow these instructions may impact your competitiveness in this process or may result in disqualification.

BACKGROUND SCREENING: Candidates who have successfully completed all prior phases of the selection process will be subject to fingerprinting and a background investigation prior to employment. Failure to comply with the background will result in the candidate not being considered further for that vacancy. Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position

If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer are contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The City of Healdsburg values diversity and is dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace environment that is representative of the community. The City is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law.

We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces and diversity of our employees where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need. The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment. Requests for reasonable accommodations needed to participate in the recruitment process may be made by contacting Human Resources within five (5) business days of being noticed that an event requiring accommodation is occurring.

You may also contact the Human Resources Department at (707) 431-3376.