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Utility Systems Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

You will serve as a UTILITY SYSTEM OPERATOR in the PUBLIC WORKS of NAVFAC SOUTHWEST. "This position ... Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) and may subsequently be realigned under the ...

Key utility systems required for GxP production and support are RO, WFI, Waste Neutralization, HVAC, CDA, Steam, Heating Hot Water, Gases, and Power. The Utility Operations Operator will interface ...

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Utility Engineer_26-03326

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$58 - $60.57/hr

Utility system reliability, compliance, and performance * Core role: Technical SME + project ... Provide technical guidance to utility operators and technicians * Support Global Engineering on ...

Utility system reliability, compliance, and performance Core role: Technical SME + project engineer ... Provide technical guidance to utility operators and technicians * Support Global Engineering on ...

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Utility Systems Operator information

What is the difference between Utility Systems Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectUtility Systems OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and relevant certificationsRequires a high school diploma and water treatment certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates and maintains utility systems in various industriesWorks specifically in water treatment facilities
Industry UsageCommon in utilities, manufacturing, and energy sectorsPrimarily in municipal and industrial water treatment
Job FunctionsMaintains utility systems, monitors equipment, performs basic repairsOperates water treatment equipment, tests water quality, ensures safety standards

The Utility Systems Operator and Water Treatment Plant Operator roles share similarities in certifications and work environments, but differ mainly in industry focus and specific job functions. Utility Systems Operators have broader responsibilities across various utility systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in water quality and treatment processes.

What are Utility Systems Operators?

Utility Systems Operators are professionals responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the equipment and systems that provide essential utilities such as water, electricity, steam, or gas to buildings, industrial sites, or municipalities. They ensure these systems operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations. Their duties often include inspecting equipment, reading meters, troubleshooting issues, and making adjustments to optimize performance. Utility Systems Operators play a vital role in preventing outages, minimizing downtime, and ensuring the reliable delivery of utility services.

What are some common challenges faced by Utility Systems Operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Utility Systems Operators often work in shifts to ensure around-the-clock operation of water, wastewater, or power systems. A common challenge is adapting to irregular hours, which can disrupt sleep patterns and work-life balance. To manage this, operators should prioritize healthy sleep routines, communicate with their team for smooth handovers, and stay vigilant during critical system checks. Many facilities offer support through rotating shifts or wellness programs to help operators maintain their well-being while meeting operational demands.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Utility Systems Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Utility Systems Operator, you need a strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, water or wastewater treatment processes, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional technical training or certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and safety protocols is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are important soft skills for monitoring operations and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure reliable utility service, regulatory compliance, and safe, efficient system performance.
What are popular job titles related to Utility Systems Operator jobs in California? For Utility Systems Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Utility Systems Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Utility Systems Operator jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Utility Systems Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Utility Systems Repairer Operator (Seasonal)

Utility Systems Repairer Operator (Seasonal)

US Department of the Interior

Death Valley, CA

$29.83/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


U.S. Department Of The Interior rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

321st of 693 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

This position is located in Seasonal Staffing Office-Pacific West Region, the positions will assist permanent staff.

Open to the first 30 applicants or until 07/27/2026 whichever comes first. All applications submitted by 11:59 (EST) on the closing day will receive consideration.
Anticipated Entry on Duty: October 2026


Qualifications:To qualify for this position, you must have sufficient knowledge and ability in the following job-related factors by the closing date this job announcement:
  1. Ability to do the work of a Utility Systems Repairer-Operator WG-07 without more than normal supervision (Screen out): the repair, maintenance and operation of utility systems related to water, wastewater, and plumbing. Starting, stopping, and regulating the utility or utilities for optimum efficiency and troubleshooting, maintaining, and repairing them. Performing preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair on utility systems related to water production and treatment. Diagnosing plumbing, water production and distribution issues. Interpreting building plans, specifications, work orders, oral instructions, diagrams, and guides to plan and lay out various systems and equipment. In addition, you will need the following:
    • Water Treatment License, Water Distribution License, or Wastewater Operator License (SCREEN OUT): You must possess and maintain either a valid Grade 1 (or greater) Water Treatment T-1 License, a valid Grade 1 (or greater) Water Distribution D-1 License, or a valid Grade 1 Wastewater Operator WW-1 License from a U.S. State or Territory by the closing date of this announcement.
  2. Ability To Interpret Instructions, Specification, etc. (includes blueprints reading)
  3. Ability To Use and Maintain Tools and Equipment
  4. Knowledge of Equipment Assembly, Installation Repair, etc.
  5. Knowledge of materials
  6. Technical Practices (theoretical precise, artistic)
  7. Use of Measuring Instruments
If your knowledge and ability in the SCREEN OUT factor above is not sufficient, you will receive no further consideration. In preparing your application, describe in detail the experience and training which you have had that specifically prepared you for this job and to perform the duties described for this job. Experience should be clearly described and documented in your resume. The qualifications reviewer will not assume performance of such duties by Job Titles alone. Address your knowledge, skills and/or abilities in the areas shown in the job-related factors.
Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
CTAP/ICTAP Statement: Current surplus and current or former displaced Federal individuals who have special priority selection rights under the Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) must be well qualified for the position to receive consideration for special priority selection. Well qualified means that the applicant meets the following: OPM qualification standards for the position; all selective placement factors, where applicable; special qualifying conditions that OPM has approved for the position, where applicable; is physically qualified with reasonable accommodation, where appropriate to satisfactorily perform the duties of the position upon entry; and is rated by the organization at least at the well qualified level on all competencies.Education:There is no substitution of education for experience for Wage Grade (WG) positions.
Additional Information Continued -
A selectee receiving a first appointment to the Federal Government (Civil Service) is entitled only to the lowest step of the grade for which selected. The display of a salary range on this vacancy shall not be construed as granting an entitlement to a higher rate of pay.
Click here for the Federal Wage Schedule Website to calculate location specific pay.Employment Type: OTHER

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