Description

This recruitment is open until filled.

The first review of applications is anticipated to occur on or around May 1, 2026, and subsequent reviews may be conducted until sufficient applications are received to meet business needs. Early submissions are encouraged. 

The City of Oxnard’s Public Works Department invites qualified candidates to apply for the position of Water Operations Manager within the Water Division. This position is responsible for overseeing water operations and services, including the management, training, and support of personnel. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience and knowledge in water utility operations.

WHAT YOU'LL DO: 

• Accepts management responsibility for activities, operations, and services of the Water Operations, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations are met. 
• Proposes, presents, and justifies divisional programs, projects, operations, and services; develops a strategy and work plan for the successful achievement of department/division and project goals.
• Serves as a resource for the treatment plant and Cross Connection departments/divisions; coordinates divisional activities with other divisions, departments, and organizations; provides information and resources to City officials, departments, and other organizations as is appropriate.
• Conducts financial, organizational, and operational service delivery studies; makes recommendations to address and resolve identified service delivery issues.
• Prepares and presents staff reports and other necessary documents or correspondence to appropriate boards, groups and/or committees.
• Attends and participates in organizational and community meetings as necessary; stays current on issues relative to the field of water treatment plant operations and maintenance, Cross Connection,, contracts, and permits; responds to and resolves community and organizational inquiries and complaints.
• Lead the City’s Cross-Connection Control Program by overseeing backflow prevention compliance, coordinating testing/repairs and enforcement, and ensuring the program stays aligned with the latest State Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook requirements.

PAYROLL/CLASSIFICATION TITLE: Plant Operations Manager

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:

This classification is distinguished from the Chief Plant Operator in it oversees a major operational program or function of the water or wastewater plant and serves as a first-level supervisor.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED/ SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Incumbents supervise paraprofessional and support staff including conducting performance evaluations, coordinating training, and implementing hiring, discipline and termination procedures. Receives general supervision and is expected to prioritize work to meet deadlines and to keep the supervisor informed of issues that would impact achievement of a deadline, organizational policy or procedure or in consideration of risk management.

WORK SCHEDULE:
The normal work week is Monday through Thursday 8:00am to 6:00pm and alternating Fridays 8:00am to 5:00pm. Depending on the area of assignment staff may be assigned to a shift that is outside the standard work hours. This position may be required to be available for additional hours in response to peaks in workloads and changes in department needs. The standard work environment varies depending on assignment but is typically either primarily in an office setting or out in the field. The City does not offer hybrid or remote work.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

This class specification represents only the core areas of responsibilities; specific position assignments will vary depending on the needs of the Department.

• Supervises staff including conducting performance evaluations, coordinating training, and implementing hiring, discipline and termination procedures.
• Plans, manages, coordinates and supervises assigned maintenance, operations, and regulatory compliance of the water treatment plant; monitors processes to ensure the achievement of work quality standards and adherence with operational and safety policies and procedures; provides administrative and technical direction to staff.
• Serves as a liaison and advisor with internal departments, agencies, and other external organizations, groups and/or representatives; responds to inquiries and requests; manages escalated issues; reviews, recommends and implements solutions to issues.
• Recommends, develops and implements policies, procedures and/or processes related to assigned projects, functions and/or programs. Prepares and reviews reports; consults with staff; analyzes problems and recommends solutions.
• Participates in the development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of assigned division, program, and/or project budgets and expenditures. Provides procurement recommendations and assists in purchase acquisitions.
• Performs other duties of a similar nature and level as assigned.

Requirements

EDUCATION:

• Associate’s degree (or 60 units) in water science or a related field. (Must be attached to your application)

EXPERIENCE:

• Seven (7) years of progressively responsible water treatment or wastewater treatment experience, including two (2) years of supervisory experience.

LICENSING/CERTIFICATIONS:

• Valid California Class C Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record. 

Incumbents assigned to water treatment require:

• Valid California State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Operator D3 Certificate. (Must be attached to your application)
• Valid California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Operator T4 Water Treatment Plant Operator Certificate. (Must be attached to your application)
• Valid California State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Operator D4 certificate is required within 18 months of appointment.
• Preferred: Hold (or ability to obtain) a recognized Cross-Connection Control Specialist certification (e.g., ABPA/CA-NV AWWA) to support oversight of the City’s Cross-Connection Control Program.