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  • Process Control Systems Specialist

    Sacramento, California United States City of Sacramento, CA Full Time $88,910.91 - $125,106.58 Annually Jul 14, 2025
    City of Sacramento Employer:

    City of Sacramento, CA

    The City of Sacramento, Sacramento County, California, was founded in 1849, and is the oldest incorporated city in California. In 1920, Sacramento City voters adopted a City Charter (municipal constitution) and a City Council-City Manager form of government, which are still used today. The City Council consists of a Mayor elected by all City voters, and Councilmembers elected to represent the eight separate Council districts in the City. Each district is a separate geographical area with a population of about 51,000 residents. Each Councilmember must be a registered voter and live in the district they represent. Elected members serve 4 year terms and elections are staggered every two years in even numbered years. (Council District Information, including summary report of population and racial statistics). The Council establishes City policies, ordinances, and land uses; approves the City's annual budget, contracts, and agreements; hears appeals of decisions made by City staff or citizen advisory groups; and appoints four Charter Officers, a City Manager, City Attorney, City Treasurer, and City Clerk. Councilmembers serve on several working committees, such as Law and Legislation, and Personnel and Public Employees. In 2002, City voters amended the City Charter and established a Compensation Commission to set the compensation for the Mayor, Council members and public members of City boards and commissions. This Charter Amendment also established the Mayor's position as a full-time job. The City also has a Legislative Affairs Unit; it's primary purpose is to advocate, coordinate and advance the City's legislative agenda to enhance the City's ability to govern and provide essential municipal and community services.             

    Job Description

    THE POSITION

    The Process Control Systems Specialist position within the Department of Utilities (DOU) is responsible for understanding process control programming including, but not limited to Schneider PLCs in both EcoStruxure Control Expert (DFB and Structured Text), Proworx32 (984LL), Human Machine Interface (HMI) software VTScada with scripting, widget creation, and creating, assigning, and scaling tags with widgets. This position also performs network switch capability using Command Line and Web Interface.

    IDEAL CANDIDATE STATEMENT

    The ideal candidate will have a strong background working with industrial control network communications, process control systems, and databases used for automating and monitoring industrial equipment. The candidate will have experience securing critical infrastructure assets within an operational technology environment and understand how to limit risk from a cyber security perspective. Additionally, the ideal candidate will have proficiency with programming and troubleshooting software and hardware for HMI applications, programmable logic controllers, and instrumentation and electrical components integral process systems.

    Under general supervision, performs duties involved in the planning, programming, designing, maintaining, and repairing control apparatus, data logging and display equipment, communications systems, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) software and hardware equipment to support operations of the City's water and wastewater facilities; develops and designs improvements to control systems; plans, coordinates, and implements a comprehensive control system installation, maintenance, and repair program; provides recommendations, support, and assistance to the supervisor and engineering and operation staff; and performs related work as required.

    DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

    This is a single classification; and, a full journey-level classification. The Process Control Systems Specialist is responsible for performing specialized functions in the development, maintenance, and repair of the City's water and wastewater facility control systems. This class is distinguished from general information technology support classifications by the specialized and technical expertise related to process control systems, specifically SCADA.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

    Depending upon assignment, duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:
    • Analyzes, evaluates, designs, develops, programs, tests, implements, documents, and maintains process control systems to support operations of the water and wastewater facilities and systems, including control apparatus, data logging and display equipment, networks, communications and security systems, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) software and hardware equipment.
    • Participates in designing and developing new or enhanced process control system upgrades and/or applications; analyzes user operations and business requirements to design and develop process control system solutions; reviews, evaluates, and recommends systems and applications; creates or oversees the development of systems documentation to develop program specifications; designs optimum system configurations; develops and implements testing plans; ensures system quality assurance; determines whether new programs meet users’ business and technology requirements and makes adjustments as required.
    • Maintains and provides technical support to existing systems; provides answers to user requests for information on system use; responds to calls and requests for major or minor systems modifications; troubleshoots routine to highly complex system, hardware, and software related problems; writes, tests, debugs, and installs programs.
    • Performs system administration functions; evaluates and tests system upgrades; installs, configures, and/or upgrades software and hardware; monitors data storage utilization; implements virtual server infrastructure and maintains related servers.
    • Analyzes and maintains complex system software, databases, networks, and related applications; resolves compatibility problems; monitors and optimizes performance; develops migration, capacity, and disaster planning and recovery procedures.
    • Performs programming of SCADA, PLC, and Human Machine Interface (HMI); troubleshoots and corrects programming, configuration, and interface problems; determines method of integrating new programming code into existing programs to meet user needs.
    • Monitors and implements technological advances in process control systems and applications; advises management about upgrades and improved systems and applications as necessary.
    • Monitors system security and performance; identifies unauthorized access and potential security breaches; recommends improvements to security and network performance.
    • Designs, installs, configures software, troubleshoots, and maintains camera and security systems at the City’s water and wastewater facilities.
    • Develops and reviews complex reports related to the operation of process control systems, including monthly compliance and special project reports; develops and implements various reporting tools as necessary.
    • Trains operations staff in the use of control systems to monitor operational processes and to perform basic control system troubleshooting; assists operators in the development of process control strategies as necessary.
    • Writes documentation on new and enhanced systems or programs, including detailed descriptions and functional capabilities; prepares and updates user materials and procedures manuals.
    • Maintains accurate electronic records, files, and data for real-time process data.
    • Performs related duties as assigned.


    QUALIFICATIONS

    Knowledge of:
    • Principles and practices of computer science, process control systems, and information systems operations and components, including systems analysis, programming, database administration, and network administration.
    • Principles, practices, methods, and techniques used in the installation, programming, troubleshooting, and maintenance of data acquisition software and hardware, networks, and programming applications, including SCADA, PLC, and HMI.
    • Principles and practices of project management, identifying technology needs and issues, researching and evaluating technology, applications, and the most effective courses of action, and implementing solutions.
    • Electrical systems, equipment, and operations.
    • Methods and techniques of evaluating business operations to develop technology solutions.
    • Control systems theory and its practical application to process control and instrumentation.
    • Operations of wastewater and water management systems and flow regimes.
    • Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility.
    • Principles and practices of data collection, analysis, and technical report preparation.
    • Complex arithmetic and statistical techniques.
    • Standard office practices and procedures, including the use of standard office equipment, record keeping, and computer applications related to the work.
    • English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation.
    • Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
    Ability to:
    • Identify and implement effective course of action to complete assigned work.
    • Provide support in the implementation and maintenance of process control systems, software, hardware, networks, and related applications.
    • On a continuous basis, analyze programming, observe monitoring signals, troubleshoot system, understand system operation, and explain new programs to operators and other users; intermittently interpret data and system configurations.
    • Respond to and identify user needs and determine resolutions.
    • Apply the principles of software, hardware, database, and programming management to organize and maintain system integrity.
    • Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with Federal, State, and local policies, procedures, laws, rules, and regulations.
    • Modify existing strategies and/or methods to meet unusual conditions.
    • Develop, interpret, apply, and explain a wide variety of technical policies and procedures and communicate difficult procedures and regulations to those encountered in the course of work.
    • Research, analyze, and summarize data, and prepare and present accurate and reliable reports containing findings and recommendations.
    • Identify and take appropriate action when unusual operating problems occur.
    • Organize, maintain, and update database and records systems.
    • Prepare clear, accurate, and concise reports, records, correspondence, and other written materials.
    • Make accurate complex arithmetic and statistical computations.
    • Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and software programs.
    • Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.
    • Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone or radio, and in writing.
    • Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
    • Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

    EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

    Education:

    A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in engineering, computer science, information systems, or a related field.

    AND

    Experience:

    Three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience in an industrial environment, programming, maintaining, installing, troubleshooting, and repairing SCADA, PLC's, and telemetry systems.

    Substitution:

    Additional related experience may substitute for education requirement on a year-for-year basis.

    PROOF OF EDUCATION

    Should education be used to qualify for this position, then proof of education such as, but not limited to, university/college transcripts and degrees should be submitted with your application and will be required at the time of appointment. Unofficial documents and/or copies are acceptable.

    An applicant with a college degree obtained outside the United States must have education records evaluated by a credentials evaluation service. Evaluation of education records will be due at time of appointment.

    SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS

    Driver License:

    Possession of, or ability to obtain, a valid California Class C Driver License by time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

    PHYSICAL DEMANDS

    Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; to operate a motor vehicle and to visit various City and meeting sites; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone. This is partially a sedentary office classification and partially a field classification requiring frequent standing in and walking between work areas, including traversing uneven terrain and climbing up and down facility access points. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, and reach to perform work. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 40 pounds.

    ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS

    Employees work indoors and outdoors, and are frequently exposed to dust, fumes, and allergens and occasionally exposed to loud noise levels, inclement weather conditions, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical and chemical substances .

    PROBATIONARY PERIOD:

    Employees must complete twelve (12) months of probation at a satisfactory performance level prior to gaining permanent status.

    THE SELECTION PROCEDURE

    Please note, the City of Sacramento's preferred method of communication with applicants is via e-mail. As such, please ensure you verify the e-mail address on your application, and check your e-mail frequently, including your spam and junk folders. All e-mail notifications can also be accessed through the governmentjobs.com applicant inbox.

    1. Application: (Pass/Fail) - All applicants must complete and submit online a City of Sacramento employment application by the final filing deadline ;
    • Employment applications must be submitted online; paper applications will not be accepted.
    • Employment applications will be considered incomplete and will be disqualified:
      • If applicants do not list current and/or past job-related experience in the duties area of the "Work Experience" section. Note: Qualifying experience is based on full-time experience (40 hours per week). Qualifying experience is calculated to the full-time equivalent (pro-rated if less than 40 hours/week).
      • If "see resume" is noted in the "Work Experience" section; a resume will not substitute for the information required in the "Work Experience" section.
    • Proof of education such as, but not limited to, university/college transcripts and degrees should be submitted online with your application. Proof of education will be required at time of appointment.
    • Position/job titles will not be considered in determining eligibility for meeting the minimum qualifications for this position.
    • If you’re requesting Veteran’s credit, a copy of your DD214 must be submitted online with your application or emailed to the Employment Office by the final filing deadline. Information regarding the use of Veteran’s credit can be found in the Civil Service Board rules under rule 4.9C.
    • Applicants are responsible for attaching a copy of their DD214 to each position for which they apply.

    2. Training and Experience Exam: (Weighted 100%) - The questions located at the end of the application are the Training and Experience (T&E) Exam. Responses to the T&E questions will be rated and scored. This exam will evaluate the relevance, level, and progression of a candidate's education, training and experience. The exam score will determine your ranking on the eligible list for this job. When completing the T&E questions, please note:
    • Responses to the T&E questions must be submitted online; paper questionnaires will not be accepted.
    • A resume will not substitute for the information required in the T&E questions.

    3. Eligibility: Candidates who pass the Training and Experience Test will be placed on the eligible list. The hiring department may contact candidates for interview at any time during the life of the one-year list. Candidate’s eligibility expires one year from the date of notification of a passing score for the Process Control Systems Specialist examination.

    4. Screening Committee: (Pass/Fail)- All candidates that pass the examination and are in one of the top three ranks will have their application forwarded to the hiring department for review. The hiring department will select the most competitive applications for further consideration. Human Resources will only evaluate employment applications for the minimum qualifications, as stated on the job announcement, for applications selected by the hiring department.

    5. Conditional Hire: Upon receipt of a conditional offer, the selected candidate must complete and pass Live Scan/fingerprinting. If applicable, candidates may also need to pass a pre-employment medical exam, controlled substance and/or alcohol test, and possess any required licensure or certification prior to receiving a start date from the Department. Failure to meet these prerequisites will be grounds for withdrawal of your conditional offer of employment.

    QUESTIONS:
    For questions concerning this job announcement and the application process:
    • Please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/Home/ApplicationGuide for a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to the application process.
    • For technical support between 6 AM - 5 PM PT, contact Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627.
    • Visit the City of Sacramento Human Resources Department website at https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/HR/employment ;
    • Send an email to employment@cityofsacramento.org ; or
    • Call the Human Resources Department at (916) 808-5726


    Bilingual Pay
    Did you know that the City offers bilingual pay? That's right, most labor agreements offer the option of providing employees with bilingual pay if the department deems it to be operationally necessary.

    Pension Reform Act
    The City of Sacramento is covered by the California Public Employees' Retirement System, and as such, must adhere to the California Public Employee's Pension Reform Act (PEPRA) of 2013. Please note that the provisions within this act may affect or impact an applicant's eligibility and/or selection for open vacancies at the City of Sacramento.

    Equal Opportunity Employer
    The City of Sacramento is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

    Additional Information
    Civil Service Rules: https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/content/dam/portal/hr/documentlibrary/CivilServiceBoardRules62012.pdf

    Union Contracts: https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/HR/labor-agreements.html

    Salary Schedule: https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/content/dam/portal/hr/documentlibrary/SalarySchedule.pdf

    Closing Date/Time: 8/10/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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Top Utilities Jobs and Career Opportunities

Top Utilities Jobs and Career Opportunities
 

Utilities Industry Overview

The utility industry is crucial in providing essential services that power modern life, such as electricity, natural gas, water, and wastewater. These services keep communities running smoothly and ensure the well-being of millions of people.

Public utilities are central to the daily lives of individuals and businesses alike, whether they power homes, ensure clean drinking water, or treat wastewater.

As a public utility, the industry’s commitment extends beyond profits to community service, offering reliability and efficiency in everything it does. This sense of purpose makes the utility industry attractive for job seekers looking for opportunities that combine stability with the opportunity to make a real impact.

From roles in natural gas to wastewater services and other areas, the industry offers various positions that span technical, managerial, and customer-focused jobs.

 

Job Opportunities in Utilities

If you’re looking for a career that offers long-term stability, the utility industry provides diverse job opportunities in various fields, such as engineering, operations, finance, human resources, and customer service.

Utilities are an essential service, so many organizations—whether public utility companies, private firms, or government agencies—are always looking for qualified individuals to fill key roles.

Here are some of the typical areas where job opportunities can be found:

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  • Engineering: Engineers in utilities design and maintain the complex systems that provide gas, electricity, and water services. These roles may include electrical, mechanical, and civil engineering positions.
  • Operations and Maintenance: Operations teams ensure systems function smoothly, dealing with issues in real-time and coordinating maintenance to prevent downtime.
  • Customer Service: Customer-facing roles include helping individuals and businesses with utility services, providing information, troubleshooting issues, and handling billing inquiries.

You can search for job opportunities by location, job title, or company, making it easier to find a role that suits your interests and expertise.

 

Career Paths and Advancement

The utility industry offers job opportunities and supports long-term career growth. Many companies in this sector invest heavily in their employees, providing training and development opportunities that allow individuals to build skills over time. Whether you’re interested in climbing the ladder to management or expanding your knowledge in a specialized area like engineering or finance, the utility industry encourages ongoing learning.

Common career paths include:

  • Engineering Careers: You can start in a junior engineering position and work your way up to a senior engineer or managerial role, where you would oversee a team of engineers.
  • Operations Management: Operations roles often lead to leadership opportunities, where employees manage teams and systems to ensure the reliability of services.
  • Human Resources and Management: For those with skills in managing people and resources, there are opportunities to move into human resources and upper management positions responsible for policy, hiring, and employee retention.
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With these opportunities, employees can expand their careers while gaining new skills, making the utility industry a dynamic and rewarding space for career advancement.

 

Human Resources and Company Culture

When evaluating a career in utilities, it’s essential to consider the company’s human resources policies and overall culture. Most utility companies strive to create a community-oriented atmosphere with a strong focus on teamwork, collaboration, and safety.

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Utility companies often provide comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement savings plans, and generous paid time-off policies. These packages make the industry competitive when compared to other sectors. Additionally, most companies offer employee training programs to ensure everyone has the skills necessary to thrive and progress within the company.

Understanding the application process can also help. When applying for utility roles, expect a structured process, including online applications, assessments, and multiple interviews. Given the importance of these companies’ services, the hiring process is often thorough, but it also ensures a good fit between the candidate and the company’s culture.

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Featured Utility Jobs

If you’re interested in taking the next step, here are a few featured job opportunities in the utilities industry:

  • Electrical Engineer: Focused on designing, developing, and maintaining electrical systems that power communities. The salary range can vary but is generally competitive, with benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
  • Operations Manager: Responsible for overseeing the daily operations of utility services like water treatment or natural gas distribution. This role typically includes a robust compensation package and leadership opportunities.
  • Customer Service Representative: Often the first point of contact for customers with utility-related queries, this role requires excellent communication skills and offers entry-level opportunities for growth within the company.

By visiting the human resources page of most utility companies or using job search platforms, you can apply for roles directly. Most companies provide a seamless online application process that allows candidates to submit resumes and track application progress.

 

Benefits and Compensation in Utilities

Utilities companies are known for offering competitive benefits and compensation packages. Here’s what you can typically expect:

  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive plans that cover medical, dental, and vision, along with preventative care services.
  • Retirement Plans: Many companies offer a 401(k) plan with matching contributions, ensuring long-term financial security.
  • Paid Time Off: Employees are often given generous vacation, paid holidays, and sick leave.

Salaries vary depending on the job role and location. Still, jobs in the utilities industry are often considered secure, with ample room for wage growth, particularly as employees advance into more senior roles. Many companies also invest in training and professional development programs, helping employees build the skills they need to move up within the organization.

 

Getting Hired in Utilities

The application process for utility jobs can be straightforward, though it varies from company to company. Many utilities employers provide clear guidelines on how to apply through their website or human resources portal. Typically, this involves filling out an online application, uploading a resume, and potentially undergoing an interview.

Depending on the position, the interview process may involve meeting with multiple team members or department heads. Applicants should be prepared to discuss their qualifications, experience, and how they can contribute to the team’s goals. Often, a skills assessment will be part of the process, ensuring that candidates possess the qualifications for their respective roles.

category066-image-004-careers-in-government

Utilities Industry Outlook and Trends

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The utilities industry is evolving, particularly with the rise of renewable energy and technological advancements. This shift is opening new doors for job seekers, especially in areas like engineering and operations management, where knowledge of green energy solutions is increasingly in demand. Additionally, companies are emphasizing sustainability and digital transformation more, creating fresh opportunities for forward-thinking individuals.

These advancements also mean that the utility sector is more dynamic than ever, offering job stability and exciting growth opportunities. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to advance in your field, the utility industry provides a broad spectrum of roles catering to various interests and skills.

In summary, the utility industry offers many career opportunities in engineering, operations, customer service, and management, with competitive compensation and strong benefits packages. Whether you’re interested in training for career growth or exploring the cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of utilities, this industry provides ample opportunities for professional development and job security.

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