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City of San Jose, CA

Industrial Electrician - Environmental Services Department

City of San Jose, CA, San Jose, CA, United States


Salary: $121,364.88 - $147,856.80 Annually

Location : San Jose - Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility

Job Type: Full-Time

Job Number: 202300705

Department: Environmental Services

Opening Date: 11/25/2024

Closing Date: 1/13/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Our diverse and inclusive workforce of more than 7,000 employees play a key role in the success of San Jos, the heart of the Silicon Valley. All City of San Jos employees work together as one team to make San Jos a vibrant, innovative, and desirable place to live and work. Visit to learn more about our One Team Leadership Values and Expectations, including quality and excellent customer service and here to learn more about San Jos.

The City of San Jos is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants for all job openings will be considered without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or any other consideration made unlawful under any federal, state or local laws. The City of San Jos is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at 408-535-1285, 711 (TTY), or via email at CityCareers@sanjoseca.gov.
About the Department

The Environmental Services Department (ESD) is a national leader in pollution prevention, watershed protection, utility service provision, and climate action. Together, ESD employees positively impact every resident and business in San Jose.

Our department is an exceptional place to start or grow your career. We have a supportive leadership team, numerous professional growth opportunities, and an inclusive workplace culture that is welcoming of your talents! We offer an array of meaningful career paths and value flexibility - offering hybrid work and alternative work schedules in select roles. Additionally, the City offers excellent health and pension benefits, as well as 15 paid holidays!

To learn more about ESD, follow @sjenvironment on X (formally Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and San Jose Environmental Services on LinkedIn.

About the Regional Wastewater Facility (RWF)

The San Jos - Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility (RWF) is one of the largest advanced wastewater treatment facilities in the nation and treats water from homes and businesses in the cities of San Jos, Santa Clara, Milpitas, Campbell, Cupertino, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, Saratoga, and unincorporated areas within Santa Clara County. The RWF serves a population of over 1.4 million people and has the capacity to treat 167 million gallons of wastewater per day. For more information, visit our website at https://www.sanjoseca.gov/your-government/departments-offices/environmental-services/water-utilities

Join our rockstar team of Industrial Electricians! Click on the links below to see videos highlighting some of our great Industrial Electricians!

ESD Industrial Electrician - David A.

ESD Industrial Electrician - Kirk W.

Position Duties

Salary Range

The salary range for this classification is:

  • $121,364.88 - $147,856.80 Annually
This salary range includes an approximate five percent (5%) ongoing non-pensionable compensation. Actual salary shall be determined by the final candidates' qualifications and experience.

Duties

The Environmental Services Department is currently seeking to fill multiple full-time Industrial Electrician vacancies in the Wastewater Management - Energy & Automation division. These positions are located at the RWF (700 Los Esteros Road, San Jose, CA 95134). The RWF is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Day shifts are typical for these positions with scheduled hours occurring Monday through Friday. Infrequently, Industrial Electricians may be required to work nights, weekends, and/or holidays if needed. Upon completion of the probation period, employees may elect to work a flexible work schedule such as ten-hour days scheduled over four days per week or an alternative work schedule consisting of nine-hour days with one day off every other week.

Industrial Electricians perform journey-level electrical work in relation to the construction, maintenance, installation, inspection testing, repair, and alteration of electrical power generating plant machinery/equipment, substation machinery/equipment, and other electrical machinery/equipment/systems found at the RWF. In addition, these positions perform related work as needed.

Key responsibilities and typical duties include but are not limited to:
  • Maintaining, operating, and adjusting electrical primary power substations ranging from 4160 to 115kv, including circuit breakers, relays, batteries, and controls.
  • Testing low and high voltage electrical equipment including circuits, transformers, variable frequency drives (VFD's), high voltage switches, phase shifters, and electrical components of process control, telemetering, cathodic protection systems, and electronic equipment boards.
  • Diagnosing problems and determining needed repairs or modifications.
  • Installing conduit and pulling wires for motors, control panels and lighting fixtures.
  • Reviewing work orders, maintaining activity logs, preparing requisitions, and obtaining approvals for various projects.
  • Designing, fabricating, and installing electrical systems and components to ensure code compliance.
  • Installing wiring on electrical equipment to ensure code compliance.
  • Inspecting job sites for potential hazards, determining precautions, and following safe and effective work procedures.
  • Responding to and evaluating emergencies, taking required actions, and identifying the need for additional immediate support.
  • Attending various meetings and acting as a liaison with contractors, vendors, and other departments.
  • Purchasing electrical supplies and filling out paperwork, coordinating purchases, and choosing vendors.
  • Performing other duties of a similar nature or level as required.


Minimum Qualifications

Education and Training: High School Graduation or equivalent AND completion of an approved apprenticeship program.

Acceptable Substitutions: Successful completion of the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards electrician certification exam OR documented proof of completion of 8500 hours of both course work and experience in all of the areas covered in the State of California Electrician Apprenticeship Standards maybe substituted for completion of a recognized Electrician Apprenticeship program. These areas include residential wiring, commercial and industrial wiring, intercom and signals, controls, underground work, trouble shooting, finishing and fixture hanging, solid state controls, and stock and inventory.

Experience: One (1) year of post-apprenticeship experience performing duties that include a minimum 12 kV or higher voltage substation construction, equipment maintenance, control and protective system troubleshooting and maintenance in an industrial, utility, and/or manufacturing environment.

Licensing/Certification:
  • Possession of a valid driver's license authorizing the operation of a motor vehicle in the State of California.
  • Substation Maintenance certification meeting the requirements of OSHA 29 CFR1910.269(a)(2)(vii) is desirable.


Other Qualifications

Competencies

The ideal candidate will possess the following competencies, as demonstrated in past and current employment history. Desirable competencies for this position include:

Job Expertise - Demonstrates knowledge of and experience with applicable professional/technical principles and practices, Citywide and departmental procedures/policies, and federal and state rules and regulations. Fundamentals of electricity and electronics including their application to the operation of high voltage substation equipment (i.e., 115kv, 4160v & 480v), electrical motor controls, circuit breakers, generator controls, protective relay testing & calibration, and switchgears. Ability to program Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) & Variable Frequency Drives; (VFD's). Training and/or certification in any of the following: NFPA 70E; Electrical Safety for Industrial Facilities; Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC's); Motor Controls; Variable Frequency Drives (VFD's); National Electrical Code, California Electrical Safety Orders, NFPA70E, and Cal OSHA. Substation Maintenance certification meeting the requirements of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269(a)(2)(vii) is desirable.

Analytical Thinking - Approaching a problem or situation by using a logical, systematic, sequential approach.

Teamwork & Interpersonal Skills - Develops effective relationships with co-workers and supervisors by helping others accomplish tasks and using collaboration and conflict resolution skills.

Computer Skills - Experienced with common business computer applications including but not limited to: MS Outlook, MSWord, MS PowerPoint, MS Access, and MS Excel.

Communication Skills - Effectively conveys information and expresses thoughts and facts clearly, orally and in writing; demonstrates effective use of listening skills; displays openness to other people's ideas and thoughts.

Basic Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

(Needed at entry into the job in order to perform the essential duties.)

Knowledge of:
  • Fundamentals of electricity and electronics including their application to the operation of high voltage substation equipment (i.e. 115kv, 4160v & 480v), electrical motor controls, circuit breakers, generator controls, protective relay testing & calibration, and switchgears;
  • National Electrical Code, California Electrical Safety Orders, NFPA70E, and CAL OSHA;
  • Techniques, tools, and materials of the electrical utility trade;
  • Environmental and safety practices, procedures, and standards.


Ability to:
  • Read and interpret blueprints, schematics and electrical diagrams and documents;
  • Install and maintain electrical systems and equipment;
  • Direct the activities of electrical vendors, contractors and other staff;
  • Make rough estimates of materials, supplies, and equipment required for jobs;
  • Maintain accurate records of time, labor, materials and equipment for work performed and prepare reports(oral and written) as necessary;
  • Drive electric carts and light duty vehicles safely;
  • Develop standard operating procedures and train new staff on work procedures;
  • Use communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with coworkers, supervisor, the general public, etc. to exchange or convey information;
  • Understand, follow and provide oral and written instructions.
Skill to:
  • Operate hand and power tools and equipment in a safe manner;
  • Operate and maintain electric motors, transformers, generators, controls, and other electrical equipment;
  • Troubleshoot electrical problems in an industrial facility;
  • Use computers and related software applications.


Desirable Qualifications

(Knowledge, skills and abilities; licenses, certificates, education, experience that is more position specific and/or likely to contribute to more successful job performance.)
  • Ability to program Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) & Variable Frequency Drives (VFD's);
  • Training and/or certification in any of the following:
  • NFPA 70E; Electrical Safety for Industrial Facilities; Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC's); Motor Controls; Variable Frequency Drives (VFD's).


To view the full Class Specification for Industrial Electrician, click the following link: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sanjoseca/classspecs/1554570

Selection Process

The selection process will consist of an evaluation of the applicant's training and experience based on the application, resume, and answers to the job specific questions. Those applicants meeting the minimum qualifications will be invited to a written exam tentatively scheduled for Friday, January 24, 2025. An appropriate number of the best qualified applicants with a passing score on the written exam will be invited to a practical exam tentatively scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2025. An appropriate number of the best qualified applicants from the practical exam will be invited to participate in an oral interview for final selection tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, February 12, 2025. Confirmation of exam/interview dates, times, and instructions will be provided in advance to candidates who are eligible to move forward in the selection process.

If you have questions about the duties of these positions, the selection or hiring processes, please contact Zoe McChesney at zoe.mcchesney@sanjoseca.gov.

Additional Information:

Employment Eligibility: Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country. Please be informed that the City of San Jose will NOT sponsor, represent or sign any documents related to visa applications/transfers for H1-B or any other type of visa which requires an employer application.

You must answer all job-specific questions to be considered for this vacancy or your application will be deemed incomplete and withheld from further consideration. Applicants are expected to write their own essays/responses. Please be advised that use of AI content in your responses may result in your removal from the hiring process.

Please note that applications are currently not accepted through CalOpps or any other third party job board application system.

This recruitment may be used to fill multiple positions in this, or other divisions or departments. If you are interested in employment in this classification, you should apply to ensure you are considered for additional opportunities that may utilize the applicants from this recruitment.

Please allow adequate time to complete the application and submit before the deadline or the system may not save your application. If your online application was successfully submitted, you will receive an automatic confirmation email to the email address you provided. IF YOU DO NOT RECEIVE THE CONFIRMATION, please email and we will research the status of your application.

The City of San Jose offers a wide range of core health benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program, Life Insurance, Disability, and Savings Plans. Please visit the City's for detailed information on coverage, cost, and dependent coverage.

For information on the City's Retirement Plan(pension for full-time employees), please visit the Office of Retirement Services You will be able to view information based on different Sworn/Federated job classification.

In additional to the benefits above, there is an to explore further benefits of working for the City of San Jose like paid leave, educational reimbursements, and holiday pay are specific to the job classification and union membership.

01

What is the highest level of education you have completed?
  • High School Diploma or the equivalent (GED)
  • College (1 to 29 semester units/ 1 to 44 quarter units)
  • College (30 to 59 semester units/ 45 to 89 quarter units)
  • College (60 to 89 semester units/ 90 to 134 quarter units)
  • College (90 to 119 semester units/ 135 to 179 quarter units)
  • College (120 or more semester units/ 180 or more quarter units)
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree
  • Doctoral Degree
  • Other
  • None of the above


02

If you selected other, please state the field of study and the Certification or Vocational degree received.

03

If you have successfully completed an apprenticeship from an approved program, please state the field of study and the issuing approved program.

04

An acceptable substitution for completion of a recognized Electrician Apprenticeship program is successful completion of the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards electrician certification exam or documented proof of completion of 8500 hours of both course work and experience in all of the areas covered in the State of California Electrician Apprenticeship Standards. These areas include residential wiring, commercial and industrial wiring, intercom and signals, controls, underground work, trouble shooting, finishing and fixture hanging, solid state controls, and stock and inventory. If you meet the acceptable substitution, please provide documentation of completion of the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards electrician certification exam or documentation of completion of 8500 hours of both course work and experience covered in the State of California Electrician Apprenticeship Standards.
  • I have successfully completed the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards electrician certification exam and I am able to attach documented proof to this application.
  • I have successfully completed 8500 hours of both course work and experience in all of the areas covered in the State of California Electrician Apprenticeship Standards and I am able to attach documented proof to this application.
  • I do not meet the acceptable substitution.


05

How many years of post-apprenticeship experience do you have in performing duties that include a minimum of 12 kV or higher voltage with substation construction, equipment maintenance, control and protective system troubleshooting, and maintenance in an industrial, utility, and/or manufacturing environment?
  • Fewer than one (1) year
  • One (1) year or more


06

This position requires a State of California Driver's License. Please select the applicable option that best describes your driver's license, or your ability to possess a valid driver's license.
  • State of CA, Class A Driver's License
  • State of CA, Class B Driver's License
  • State of CA, Class C Driver's License
  • I do not possess a State of California Driver's License but, I can obtain one.
  • I do not possess a State of California Driver's License and I cannot obtain one


07

Please describe the type of control circuits and equipment that you have experience troubleshooting. Include the approximate number of hours you have spent troubleshooting control circuits over the course of your career as an electrician.

08

Describe in detail your industrial electrical work experience, including where you gained your experience, number of years, the voltage you have worked with and in what capacity.

09

Explain in detail your post apprenticeship experience performing duties on equipment operating at voltages 12kV or higher in an industrial, utility, and or manufacturing environment. These duties could include substation construction, equipment maintenance, control systems installation and troubleshooting, or protective relay installation and maintenance.

Required Question