Treatment Plant Mechanic I/II

Treatment Plant Mechanic I/II

The Treatment Plant Mechanic I/II performs a wide range of mechanical and basic electrical maintenance and repair tasks to support the safe and efficient operation of water treatment, distribution, sewer collection, and stormwater facilities. This position is responsible for maintaining pumps, motors, valves, and related equipment, as well as assisting with preventative maintenance programs and troubleshooting system issues.

This recruitment is focused on filling the entry-level position, but can be filled at either the I or II level depending on qualifications. The selected candidate will work under close supervision while gaining hands-on experience in maintaining complex treatment plant systems. This is an excellent opportunity for a mechanically inclined individual seeking to build a career in the water/wastewater industry, with a clear path to advancement to the journey-level Mechanic II classification upon demonstrated proficiency and experience.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong mechanical aptitude, a willingness to learn, and an interest in pursuing a long-term career in water or wastewater treatment. Preference will be given to candidates with hands-on experience in mechanical maintenance, including work with pumps, motors, piping, or hydraulic systems, whether through employment, education, or personal projects.

Additional desirable qualifications include experience in industrial, construction, or utility environments; familiarity with basic electrical systems; and possession of, or ability to obtain, relevant certifications such as a Grade I Water Treatment Operator Certificate, CWEA Mechanical Technologist certification, or a Water Distribution certification. Candidates who show initiative, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work safely in a team-oriented environment will be highly regarded.

Definition: The Treatment Plant Mechanic I/II performs skilled installation, maintenance and repair of a wide variety of mechanical and electrical equipment found in a water treatment plant and remote water distribution, sewer collection and stormwater related facilities.

Supervision Received and Exercised: The Treatment Plant Mechanic I receives immediate direction from the Public Works Maintenance Superintendent or his/her designee. The Treatment Plant Mechanic II receives general direction from the Public Works Maintenance Superintendent or his/her designee. No direct supervision of staff is exercised by either level.

Class Characteristics: The Treatment Plant Mechanic I is the entry level class in this series. Incumbents are considered to be in training status under immediate direction. The Treatment Plant Mechanic II is considered the journey level in this series. Incumbents work independently, under general direction. Advancement to the Treatment Plant Mechanic II level may occur after satisfactorily performing the duties of a Treatment Plant Mechanic I for two (2) years and upon recommendation of the Department Head. An employee may be advanced to the II level in less than two (2) years if the employee's performance is noted as exceptional by the Department Head and the employee is recommended for early advancement by the Department Head.

Examples of Essential Functions: (Illustrative Only): Performs a variety of preventative maintenance on equipment and facilities including lubricating, cleaning, and painting. Performs corrective maintenance on plant equipment and process systems such as troubleshoot and repair of complex mechanical, hydraulic and basic electrical parts replacement, equipment replacement, pump testing, removal and replacement of electric motors, cleaning of tanks and basins. Maintains equipment and structures at remote sites, including pumps, wet wells, lift stations and grounds. Maintains accurate maintenance and repair records. Procure parts and maintains inventory of parts and supplies. Evaluates the cost-effectiveness of repair versus replacement. Implements the department's preventative maintenance program. Conducts safety inspections on plant equipment and monitors safety programs. Performs mechanical and electrical work involving disassembly and replacement of worn or broken parts, removal of equipment for shop repair, reinstallation, and realignment.

Education and Experience: Any combination of training and experience which would provide the required knowledge and skill. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and skill would be: Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Experience: Treatment Plant Mechanic I: Minimum of three (3) years experience in the maintenance of pumps, motors, piping, hydraulic or pneumatic systems, or other mechanical/process equipment. Treatment Plant Mechanic II: Two (2) years experience comparable to a Treatment Plant Mechanic I.

Licenses and Certificates: Treatment Plant Mechanic I: Possession of a valid California driver's license. Treatment Plant Mechanic II: Possession of a valid Class "A" California driver's license within one (1) year of appointment. Both levels must maintain the required driver's license pursuant to the Department of Transportation regulations. Possession of a Grade TI Water Treatment Operator's certificate or CWEA Grade I Mechanical Technologist certificate is highly desirable, but not required. A Grade D2 Water Distribution Certificate is also highly desirable, but not required.

Working Conditions: Ability to wear and use SCBA units as regulated by Cal/OSHA. May be required to participate in an on-call rotation work in confined spaces; may be required to work unusual and prolonged work schedules; work multiple shifts during emergencies; and respond to off-hours emergencies.

Physical Demands: Ability and mobility to work in a water treatment plant and field environment; walk, stand and sit for prolonged periods of time; frequently stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, crawl, climb, reach, twist, grasp and make repetitive hand movements in the performance of daily duties; lift, carry, push, and/or pull moderate to heavy amounts of weight up to 50 pounds and heavier weights with the use of proper equipment.

Environmental Elements: Work in a water treatment plant and field environment and in inclement weather conditions; exposures to water, dust, grease, hazardous materials, noise, chemicals, gas fumes, unpleasant odors, and other environmental substances; work in and/or around water; travel to and from various job sites; exposure to hazardous traffic conditions.