Water Treatment Plant Supervisor

About the Opportunity

This recruitment establishes an eligibility list to identify a qualified successor for the Water Treatment Plant Supervisor role, ensuring continuity of operations and maintaining the City of San Luis Obispo's high service standards. The position is critical to managing the City's potable water treatment facility, wells, and off-site storage, with a specific focus on emergency response obligations.

Candidates must reside within 40 miles of the City of San Luis Obispo at the time of employment. For those living 50 or more miles away, relocation assistance up to $10,000 may be available. Hiring incentives valued up to $5,000 may also be offered for positions deemed hard to fill.

About the Role

The Water Treatment Plant Supervisor serves as a mid-management leader, administering all potable water treatment functions through subordinate personnel. Reporting directly to the Deputy Director of Utilities/Water, this role operates with independence to meet changing operational conditions while adhering to legal requirements and organizational values.

The day-to-day scope involves planning, coordinating, and evaluating all facility operations, maintenance, and related activities. You will ensure strict compliance with federal, state, and local water quality regulations, including State Water Resources Control Board and Air Pollution Control District permits. The role requires a blend of strategic oversight and hands-on technical management, from optimizing energy consumption and utilizing analytics to troubleshooting equipment and managing chemical inventories.

As a leader, you will supervise plant staff, conduct safety training, and foster a high-performing team environment. The position demands availability for standby assignments and emergency situations, often requiring work in all-weather conditions, confined spaces, and exposure to hazardous chemicals.

Hiring Process & Application

This recruitment will remain open until the position is filled. To learn more about this opportunity or the Water Treatment Plant, please contact Utilities Deputy Director – Water, Mychal Boerman, at mboerman@slocity.org or 805-781-7237. Additional information is available at slowater.org.

Successful candidates will be required to complete a Live Scan Fingerprinting (DOJ) and a pre-employment physical before a final offer is made. The City also honors service credit towards vacation accrual for completed public sector years of service.

Equal Opportunity

The City of San Luis Obispo is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of background.