PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISOR (SANITATION)

Salary : $86,465.60 - $115,939.20 Annually
Location : Torrance, CA
Job Type: Permanent Full-time
Job Number:
Department: PUBLIC WORKS
Opening Date: 10/14/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

DESCRIPTION
WE STRONGLY ENCOURAGE APPLICANTS TO READ THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

IN ITS ENTIRETY BEFORE SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION FOR THIS POSITION.

The Position
The current Public Works Supervisor vacancy oversees the Wastewater and Street Sweeping sections of the Sanitation Division. Reporting to the Sanitation Services Manager, the supervisor plans, prioritizes, and supervises the inspection, cleaning, maintenance, and repair of the City's wastewater collection systems, storm drain facilities, and sewer lift and storm drain pumping stations. The position also supervises street sweeping operations, including route assignments, staff coordination, and public customer service.

The supervisor oversees Wastewater Technicians and assigned work crews; schedules daily operations and maintenance activities; assigns work and allocates personnel, equipment, materials, and supplies; and reviews work in progress and upon completion to ensure quality and adherence to safety practices.

The supervisor also coordinates crew responses to sewer and storm drain problems, including catch basin maintenance and storm-related flooding concerns. Additional responsibilities include training and evaluating staff, coordinating equipment maintenance and repair, addressing public inquiries and service requests, and preparing and maintaining operational and administrative records.

For more information about the duties of the position, click here
QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES

Any combination of education and experience that would have provided the required knowledge and skills is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and skills would be:

Education and Experience:
Graduation from high school or equivalent; and three years of progressively responsible experience with at least two of the three years directly related to the assigned area of operation (Sanitation, Sewer and Wastewater)

Formal technical training in a relevant field is preferred.

One year of supervisory or lead work experience is preferred.

Licenses and/or Certificates:
Requires a valid California Commercial Driver's License with appropriate endorsements.

Ideal Candidate
In addition to the qualification guidelines, the ideal candidate will possess:

• Knowledge of methods, equipment, tools, and materials used to inspect, clean, maintain, and repair wastewater collection systems, storm drain facilities, and pumping stations;
• Ability to plan and prioritize preventive maintenance, repairs, and service requests and allocate staff and equipment effectively;
• Knowledge of supervision principles and practices, including staff training, performance evaluation, and employee development;
• Knowledge of safety hazards and safe work practices associated with wastewater operations, including confined spaces, exposure to sewage, equipment operation, and work in public streets;
• Ability to read and interpret sewer and storm drain system maps, work orders, and operating procedures;
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to maintain accurate work activity, equipment, and maintenance records;
• Clear oral and written communication skills, sound judgment, and a strong customer service focus; and
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, management, the public, contractors, and other public agencies.

HOW TO APPLY & EXAM PROCESS

Interested candidates must submit an online application and supplemental questionnaire at www.TorranceCA.Gov/Jobs. The application filing period will remain open until a sufficient number of qualifying applications have been received. First Review of applications will be those received by 11/4/2026.

Qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the examination process. The examination will consist of:

Interview Panel weighted 100% (tentatively scheduled on 11/25/2026 )
Please ensure that your application is complete, including accurate employment dates, detailed information about your work experience, and responses to all supplemental questions. Incomplete applications may affect the review process.

SPECIAL NOTES

Visit to find out more information about our community.

The City of Torrance offers a range of benefit programs for employees and their eligible dependents. Benefits may include health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as a variety of voluntary benefits. Programs and benefits amounts vary and are based on bargaining unit, family size, hire date, plan selection, and number of hours worked.

To view the current benefits for Torrance Professional and Supervisory Association bargaining unit, visit:

For additional information about the City's benefits, visit:

RETIREMENT BENEFITS - The City contracts with the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) to provide retirement benefits. Retirement formula is based on appointment date and membership status with CalPERS.
01

Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you possess and maintain a current and valid California driver's license?

• Yes
• No

03

If yes, what class is your California Driver's License.

• Not Applicable
• Class A
• Class B
• Class C

04

How many years of progressively responsible experience do you have in the area of Sanitation operations, Wastewater and Sewer?

• None
• Less than 1 year
• More than 1 year, but less than 2 years
• More than 2 years, but less than 3 years
• 3 years or more

05

Describe the experience supporting your response to Question 4. Identify the employer(s), position title(s), dates of employment, and principal duties, including which experience directly relates to sanitation or wastewater operations. If none, enter "N/A."
06

How many years of experience do you have in the inspection, cleaning, maintenance, repair, or construction of wastewater collection systems, storm drain facilities, or pumping stations?

• None
• Less than 1 year
• More than 1 year, but less than 2 years
• More than 2 years, but less than 3 years
• 3 years or more

07

Describe your experience with wastewater collection systems, storm drain facilities, and pumping stations. Include your responsibilities, the equipment or systems involved, and any experience planning or coordinating maintenance, repairs, or emergency response. If none, enter "N/A."
08

This position oversees Street Sweeping section of the Sanitation division. please briefly describe any experience or knowledge you have of street sweeping operations, including the equipment used and typical duties involved. If none, enter "N/A."
09

Do you have supervisory experience?

• Yes
• No

10

Describe your supervisory or lead work experience. Include the number and types of employees you supervised or led and your responsibilities for assigning work, training staff, reviewing work, evaluating performance, and addressing performance or conduct concerns. Distinguish formal supervisory responsibilities from lead duties. If none, enter "N/A."
11

List relevant technical training, coursework, or certifications in wastewater collection systems, storm drain or pumping station maintenance, street sweeping, public works operations, safety, or supervision. If none, enter "N/A."
Required Question