Equipment Operator - Water Services

Job Title

The City of Santa Ana is looking for individuals who are results-oriented, possess great attitudes, demonstrate creativity and innovation, work efficiently, show a record of success, and have a PASSION for public service. Having the best employees provides the best service to the community.

Under general supervision, performs skilled work in the operation of various types of heavy equipment in the Water Services Division and functions as part of a crew that constructs, repairs, and maintains city sewers, water lines, and other water-related projects.

We are currently recruiting for two (2) vacancies in our Water Division.

Essential Functions Include But Are Not Limited To

Lays ductile iron, PVC, copper and galvanized pipe. Prepares the appropriate types of cement, solder, rubber, threaded, or slip joints or connections. Installs and maintains water mains, service lines, fire hydrants, water meters, gate valves and related appurtenances. Lays concrete blocks in the construction of meter vaults and sets forms, mixes and finishes concrete in the construction of sidewalks, curbs and gutters. Lays sewer pipe and installs manholes. Cleans a sewer line which includes the operation of special mobile hydraulic sewer cleaning equipment (e.g., sewer vacuum truck). Operates construction and maintenance equipment including backhoes, cranes, trenchers, trucks, bobcats with various attachments, hydro hammers, hydro-excavator trucks, pipe bursting equipment. Operates a variety of tapping machines and smaller equipment and tools, such as air compressors, high-pressure washers, paving breakers, power saws, pipe lathes, Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) sewer inspection equipment, cement mixers and pipe cutters. Participates in the care and maintenance of tools and equipment; cleans, services, and makes minor adjustments as necessary. Uses a computer to enter, keep and complete information for time records, safety reports, and other required records and reports. May serve as lead person of a small crew performing these and related tasks. Must lift and carry up to 95 lbs. Performs other functions as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Two years of experience at the semi-skilled level in the installation, maintenance, and repair of water distribution or sewer facilities and mechanisms, including some experience in the operation of backhoes, skiploaders, trenchers, or similar construction equipment.

DESIRABLE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of: methods, materials, tools and equipment used in the installation, maintenance, and repair of water distribution and sewer facilities and mechanisms; the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the work; traffic control including placement of cones and warning signs per the Work Area Traffic Control Handbook (WATCH) published by Building News, Inc., or recognized industry standards; some basic computer knowledge.

• Skill in: the effective and safe operation of the equipment involved in the installation, maintenance and repair of water distribution and sewer facilities and mechanisms.

• Ability to : lead a small crew of workers; troubleshoot for faulty meters and locate leaks, and adjust, repair, or remedy such defects or malfunctions; understand and follow oral and written instructions quickly and accurately; use a computer to enter and complete information for basic records and reports; establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and the public.

SPECIAL MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Must possess and retain a valid California Class "B" Driver's License throughout tenure in this classification.

• Must possess and retain a valid California State Water Resources Control Board Water Distribution Certification Grade 2 as a condition of continued employment in this classification.

• Must possess and retain a valid California State Water Resources Control Board Water Treatment Certification Grade 1 as a condition of continued employment in this classification.

• Must be willing and able to work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Mandatory stand-by duty required. Must be willing to work outside, under varying weather conditions.

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS

Due to the nature of the work, incumbents must have the ability to use both hands, arms and legs; and to sit, walk, stoop, kneel, squat, bend and reach above his/her head while moving, pushing, rolling, lowering, pulling, tilting, lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 95 pounds without assistance. Work involves exposure to hazardous chemicals and potential exposure to physical harm.

Selection Process

All applicants are required to complete and submit a City application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the City online application. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page. New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide . Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include: Performance/ Oral Interview Examination - ( Tentatively scheduled for September 17, 2026 ) ( Weight of 100% ) will evaluate the candidates' experience, training, education and abilities in relation to those factors which are essential for successful performance on the job. Candidates need a minimum passing score of 70% in order to be placed on the eligible list.

Candidates must achieve a passing score in every component of the selection process in order to be placed on the eligible list. The Human Resources Department may waive one or more examination components. When one weighted examination component is waived, the remaining section will receive a weight of 100%.

The City of Santa Ana is an equal opportunity employer. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact us regarding providing reasonable accommodation.