What are the responsibilities and job description for the SCADA Systems Manager position at City of Arcata?
Description
If you want to join a hardworking team that shares a commitment to providing top-quality municipal services in a prime Northern California location, consider a career with the City of Arcata. We have an opening for the position of SCADA Systems Manager in our Water/Wastewater Division.
The City currently pays the majority of the medical coverage premium for employees (and their dependents) and 100% of the premium for dental and vision coverage. The City also offers a $400/month health insurance opt-out option, if applicable. Additionally, 10 days Management Leave; vacation accrual increases with service; immediate City contribution to deferred compensation, increasing with service; longevity pay, etc. See more in the "Benefits" tab.
Please note: Interviews are tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
Description
Under the direction of higher-level staff, manages, coordinates, performs, and supervises a variety of work activities and duties related to the installation, programming, testing, maintenance, repair, and calibration of the City’s water and wastewater SCADA and electrical systems; performs all other related duties as assigned.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This classification is distinguished by its responsibilities for the management, coordination, oversight, and performance of a variety of activities related to installation, maintenance, operation, adjustment, calibration, programming, trouble diagnosis and fabrication of City SCADA, (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), water/wastewater control, industrial communication, water/wastewater instrumentation, telemetry, motor control centers and other equipment that support the City’s real-time systems used for monitoring and controlling water/wastewater operations. Trains, instructs and assists staff in the use of SCADA and related equipment. This classification is further distinguished by the highly technical and skilled tasks required to perform the essential duties of the position. Incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of assigned duties.
Examples of Duties
Typical Qualifications And Requirements
Knowledge of: Methods and techniques used in the installation, programming and maintenance of SCADA and other related water/wastewater operational electrical and instrumentation systems; standard methods, practices, tools and materials used for repair and maintenance of a wide variety of control systems and communication equipment; functional operational and testing principles of solid state electronics, solid state and electro-mechanical controls, and real-time computer control systems; interface programs and industrial networks used by the City; operation of applicable instrumentation and equipment; basic math to conduct calculations for programming applications; applicable local, State, and Federal laws, rules, and regulations; English usage, spelling, grammar, vocabulary and punctuation; the principles and practices of budget development and administration; principles of record keeping; techniques for dealing effectively with those contacted in the course of work, both in person and on the telephone.
Ability to: Install, program, repair, maintain and troubleshoot the City’s water and wastewater SCADA and electrical systems and equipment; read, develop and interpret plans, specifications and manuals; analyze current and future application, equipment and operational requirements and needs; learn and apply new technological developments; analyze data and develop logical solutions to problems; recommend and implement appropriate revisions to processes and procedures; design implementation and operational procedures; develop and maintain a variety of records and logs; effectively train and support and provide technical support to other staff as it relates to the water/wastewater SCADA and electrical systems and equipment; assist in preparation and administration of assigned project budget; exercise critical thinking and problem solving skills; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; work independently and as a member of a work team; establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others contacted in the course of work; ability to work independently, prioritize multiple complex projects, monitor work progress.
Additional Information
Other Requirements
Work is generally performed in both a general office and field environment. Must be able to perform the physical aspects of the job, including sitting for periods of time, operating standard office equipment, including a computer and SCADA equipment; working around low and high-voltage equipment; traversing uneven terrain; operating a motor vehicle; working outside in varying weather conditions, hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 lbs.; working alone; working at heights up to 40 feet; with occasional exposure to toxic chemicals, gases, dust, fumes, smoke, odors and excessive noises.
Experience And Training
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in computer science, industrial science, electricity and electronics, or a related field; and at least four (4) years progressively responsible experience in programming, operation and maintenance of computer systems, supervisory control, data acquisition and communication systems.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKER
All City of Arcata employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker related training as assigned and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
Equal Employment Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodaton
The City of Arcata is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability or on any other non-merit factors in its process of recruitment, selection, promotion or other conditions of employment. In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act reasonable efforts will be made during the examination process to accommodate people with special physical or mental requirements. If special accommodations are necessary, please contact the Personnel Department (707-825-2114) prior to the testing date. When indicating you have a special need, one of the following definitions will apply to you. A disabled person is anyone who: (1) has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities: i.e., walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, working or learning; or (2) has a record of such impairment; or (3) is regarded as having such an impairment.
The City of Arcata is proud to offer the following benefits:
Retirement
CalPERS Program:
Medical
The City currently pays the majority of the premium for employee and family for medical, dental, and vision. The City offers a choice of three different medical plans: Anthem Blue Cross EPO 250 Plan, Anthem Blue Cross EPO 500 Plan, and Anthem Blue Cross High Deductible Health Plan. City contributes approximately eighty percent (80%) of each plans' premiums. Employee/dependent contribution is fully paid by the City for dental (Ameritas); and vision (VSP) coverage. City offers $400/mo. health insurance opt out option.
Vacation
Accrues at 8 hours per month upon employment and increases with time in service.
Sick Leave
Accrues at 8 hours per month with no limit. 48 hours of Family Illness Leave are also allowed per year and are deducted from employee's accrued Sick Leave. This is not accruable.
Bereavement Leave
An employee may be granted up to 40 hours per year bereavement leave with pay. This is not accruable.
Management Leave
10 or 14 days (dependent on position) leave per year.
Holidays
The City provides 13 fixed holidays per year, in addition to 32 hours floating holidays.
Life Insurance
The City pays the premium on a $50,000 term life insurance policy for eligible employees.
Longevity Pay
Employee receives an additional 3% of base pay after 5 years of continuous service; an additional 3% after 10 years; and an additional 3% after 15 years.
Deferred Compensation
One Deferred Compensation plan available; with City contribution upon employment and increases with time in service.
Other Benefits
Other benefits include City-paid membership in an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for the employee and eligible dependents; an education and training reimbursement program; a physical fitness reimbursement program; optional participation in supplemental health coverages through AFLAC; optional participation in pre-tax Unreimbursed Medical and Dependent Care Assistance programs; Tobacco Cessation and Adoption incentive plans; and free bus service on all routes operated by Humboldt Transit Authority (HTA) for employee and immediate family members.
Although benefits have been reported as accurately as possible, there has been no warranty of complete benefit summary intended. All information provided is subject to the actual terms of the legal documents that control benefit programs.
01
The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal. This section must be completed. Applications may be rejected if you write, "see resume", "see attached" or anything similar.
Describe your experience (a) designing, (b) programming, (c) troubleshooting, (d) repairing and (d) maintaining or maintenance of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. (include employer name, position title, total length of time in position; and clearly demonstrate your level and scope of responsibility).
03
Describe your experience in (a) designing, (b) programming, (c) troubleshooting, (d) repairing, (e) calibrating, (f) testing, and (g) maintaining or providing maintenance of water/wastewater treatment equipment and systems. (Clearly identify the type of equipment or system and specific duties you performed [i.e. programming, repairing, etc.]; include employer name, position title, and total length of time in position).
04
Describe your experience in commercial electrical work as it relates to this position, including motor controls, instrumentation, computers, alarm systems, telephone systems, telecommunications, heating, refrigeration, motors, and generator equipment. (include employer name, position title, total length of time in position; and clearly demonstrate your level and scope of experience).
05
Which programs do you have experience with? (select all that apply).
List any other related hardware and software that you have experience with.
If you want to join a hardworking team that shares a commitment to providing top-quality municipal services in a prime Northern California location, consider a career with the City of Arcata. We have an opening for the position of SCADA Systems Manager in our Water/Wastewater Division.
- 3% salary increase in July 2026**
The City currently pays the majority of the medical coverage premium for employees (and their dependents) and 100% of the premium for dental and vision coverage. The City also offers a $400/month health insurance opt-out option, if applicable. Additionally, 10 days Management Leave; vacation accrual increases with service; immediate City contribution to deferred compensation, increasing with service; longevity pay, etc. See more in the "Benefits" tab.
Please note: Interviews are tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
Description
Under the direction of higher-level staff, manages, coordinates, performs, and supervises a variety of work activities and duties related to the installation, programming, testing, maintenance, repair, and calibration of the City’s water and wastewater SCADA and electrical systems; performs all other related duties as assigned.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This classification is distinguished by its responsibilities for the management, coordination, oversight, and performance of a variety of activities related to installation, maintenance, operation, adjustment, calibration, programming, trouble diagnosis and fabrication of City SCADA, (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), water/wastewater control, industrial communication, water/wastewater instrumentation, telemetry, motor control centers and other equipment that support the City’s real-time systems used for monitoring and controlling water/wastewater operations. Trains, instructs and assists staff in the use of SCADA and related equipment. This classification is further distinguished by the highly technical and skilled tasks required to perform the essential duties of the position. Incumbents are expected to independently perform the full scope of assigned duties.
Examples of Duties
- Manages, coordinates, and participates in all aspects of programming, troubleshooting, repairing and maintenance of the City’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system.
- Performs a variety of highly technical and skilled duties involved in the programming, troubleshooting, repairing, calibrating, testing, and maintenance of water/wastewater treatment equipment and systems, such as water/wastewater treatment instrumentation, testing, and monitoring devices, automated control devices, electrical relays, cathodic protection systems, metering and recording instruments, data logging and display equipment, telemetry radio stations and antennas.
- Performs electrical and electronic work in related areas.
- Oversees and performs testing of SCADA and water/wastewater instrumentation systems using Siemens TIA Portal and AVEVA System Platform programming environments, industrial networks (TCP/IP, Profinet, Profibus, ModBus, etc), digital oscilloscope, spectrum analyzer, digital multimeter, signal tracer, and other hardware & software.
- Troubleshoot Ethernet and TCP/IP networks throughout the entire OSI stack.
- Operate in a virtualized server environment, including platforms such as VMWare, and Microsoft Windows Server.
- Design and fabricate electronic instrumentation and control systems.
- Reads, develops, and interprets technical specifications, manuals, blueprints, and schematics drawings; prepares schematic drawings and updates blueprints to reflect as-built conditions.
- Develops, implements, and monitors preventative and emergency maintenance of SCADA and water/wastewater instrumentation systems and peripherals, remote telemetry and data gathering systems, communication systems, and other electronic equipment according to applicable electrical, SCADA, instrumentation, network, telecommunication, and security standards.
- Develops, implements and maintains standards, guidelines, procedures, records, logs, and reports of work performed; Recommends hardware software, peripheral equipment, and other related equipment purchases; prepares and evaluates bid proposals, RFP’s, specifications, and contracts; monitors vendor contracts to ensure compliance with performance requirements; develops and maintains a variety of records and logs related to installation configurations, inventory, cabling and equipment maintenance.
- Provides training for and performs hardware support and maintenance, applications support, system backups, backup hardware cycling, historical information systems maintenance and support, PLC maintenance, protocol applications and support and security monitoring; provides technical assistance to other personnel as required.
- Performs all other related duties as assigned.
Typical Qualifications And Requirements
Knowledge of: Methods and techniques used in the installation, programming and maintenance of SCADA and other related water/wastewater operational electrical and instrumentation systems; standard methods, practices, tools and materials used for repair and maintenance of a wide variety of control systems and communication equipment; functional operational and testing principles of solid state electronics, solid state and electro-mechanical controls, and real-time computer control systems; interface programs and industrial networks used by the City; operation of applicable instrumentation and equipment; basic math to conduct calculations for programming applications; applicable local, State, and Federal laws, rules, and regulations; English usage, spelling, grammar, vocabulary and punctuation; the principles and practices of budget development and administration; principles of record keeping; techniques for dealing effectively with those contacted in the course of work, both in person and on the telephone.
Ability to: Install, program, repair, maintain and troubleshoot the City’s water and wastewater SCADA and electrical systems and equipment; read, develop and interpret plans, specifications and manuals; analyze current and future application, equipment and operational requirements and needs; learn and apply new technological developments; analyze data and develop logical solutions to problems; recommend and implement appropriate revisions to processes and procedures; design implementation and operational procedures; develop and maintain a variety of records and logs; effectively train and support and provide technical support to other staff as it relates to the water/wastewater SCADA and electrical systems and equipment; assist in preparation and administration of assigned project budget; exercise critical thinking and problem solving skills; communicate effectively, both orally and in writing; work independently and as a member of a work team; establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others contacted in the course of work; ability to work independently, prioritize multiple complex projects, monitor work progress.
Additional Information
Other Requirements
- Possess a valid California Driver’s License.
- A commitment to understand and support diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
- Willing and available to work a flexible and varied work schedule that is often determined by the needs of the systems and operations. This will often include evenings, weekends, and holidays; and being on-call.
Work is generally performed in both a general office and field environment. Must be able to perform the physical aspects of the job, including sitting for periods of time, operating standard office equipment, including a computer and SCADA equipment; working around low and high-voltage equipment; traversing uneven terrain; operating a motor vehicle; working outside in varying weather conditions, hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 lbs.; working alone; working at heights up to 40 feet; with occasional exposure to toxic chemicals, gases, dust, fumes, smoke, odors and excessive noises.
Experience And Training
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in computer science, industrial science, electricity and electronics, or a related field; and at least four (4) years progressively responsible experience in programming, operation and maintenance of computer systems, supervisory control, data acquisition and communication systems.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKER
All City of Arcata employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker related training as assigned and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
Equal Employment Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodaton
The City of Arcata is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, age, disability or on any other non-merit factors in its process of recruitment, selection, promotion or other conditions of employment. In accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act reasonable efforts will be made during the examination process to accommodate people with special physical or mental requirements. If special accommodations are necessary, please contact the Personnel Department (707-825-2114) prior to the testing date. When indicating you have a special need, one of the following definitions will apply to you. A disabled person is anyone who: (1) has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities: i.e., walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, working or learning; or (2) has a record of such impairment; or (3) is regarded as having such an impairment.
- In accordance with the Immigration Reform Act of 1986, the City must verify, once an employment offer has been made, that all persons have written proof of their right to work in the United States.
- All potential City employees must complete a required pre-employment physical examination, receive DOJ fingerprint clearance, and have a satisfactory driving record (if required to drive for city business).
The City of Arcata is proud to offer the following benefits:
Retirement
CalPERS Program:
- 2% @ 55 for “CLASSIC” members. Currently, employees pay 10% (7% member rate and 3% of employer rate).**
- 2% @ 62 for “NEW” members. Currently, employees pay 10.75% (7.75% member rate [subject to actuary change annually] and 3% of employer rate).**
Medical
The City currently pays the majority of the premium for employee and family for medical, dental, and vision. The City offers a choice of three different medical plans: Anthem Blue Cross EPO 250 Plan, Anthem Blue Cross EPO 500 Plan, and Anthem Blue Cross High Deductible Health Plan. City contributes approximately eighty percent (80%) of each plans' premiums. Employee/dependent contribution is fully paid by the City for dental (Ameritas); and vision (VSP) coverage. City offers $400/mo. health insurance opt out option.
Vacation
Accrues at 8 hours per month upon employment and increases with time in service.
Sick Leave
Accrues at 8 hours per month with no limit. 48 hours of Family Illness Leave are also allowed per year and are deducted from employee's accrued Sick Leave. This is not accruable.
Bereavement Leave
An employee may be granted up to 40 hours per year bereavement leave with pay. This is not accruable.
Management Leave
10 or 14 days (dependent on position) leave per year.
Holidays
The City provides 13 fixed holidays per year, in addition to 32 hours floating holidays.
Life Insurance
The City pays the premium on a $50,000 term life insurance policy for eligible employees.
Longevity Pay
Employee receives an additional 3% of base pay after 5 years of continuous service; an additional 3% after 10 years; and an additional 3% after 15 years.
Deferred Compensation
One Deferred Compensation plan available; with City contribution upon employment and increases with time in service.
Other Benefits
Other benefits include City-paid membership in an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for the employee and eligible dependents; an education and training reimbursement program; a physical fitness reimbursement program; optional participation in supplemental health coverages through AFLAC; optional participation in pre-tax Unreimbursed Medical and Dependent Care Assistance programs; Tobacco Cessation and Adoption incentive plans; and free bus service on all routes operated by Humboldt Transit Authority (HTA) for employee and immediate family members.
Although benefits have been reported as accurately as possible, there has been no warranty of complete benefit summary intended. All information provided is subject to the actual terms of the legal documents that control benefit programs.
01
The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be as honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during an interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal. This section must be completed. Applications may be rejected if you write, "see resume", "see attached" or anything similar.
- Yes, I understand and agree
- No, I do not agree
Describe your experience (a) designing, (b) programming, (c) troubleshooting, (d) repairing and (d) maintaining or maintenance of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. (include employer name, position title, total length of time in position; and clearly demonstrate your level and scope of responsibility).
03
Describe your experience in (a) designing, (b) programming, (c) troubleshooting, (d) repairing, (e) calibrating, (f) testing, and (g) maintaining or providing maintenance of water/wastewater treatment equipment and systems. (Clearly identify the type of equipment or system and specific duties you performed [i.e. programming, repairing, etc.]; include employer name, position title, and total length of time in position).
04
Describe your experience in commercial electrical work as it relates to this position, including motor controls, instrumentation, computers, alarm systems, telephone systems, telecommunications, heating, refrigeration, motors, and generator equipment. (include employer name, position title, total length of time in position; and clearly demonstrate your level and scope of experience).
05
Which programs do you have experience with? (select all that apply).
- TIA Portal development environment
- VMWare VSphere
- Profinet
- MS SQL Server
- MS Windows Server
- VMWare vCenter
- EXSi
- AVEVA System Platform
- AVEVA InTouch
- Multimeter
- 4-20mA Loop Calibrator
- Profibus
- ModBus
List any other related hardware and software that you have experience with.
- Required Question
Salary : $50,000