Kwu Lead Operator - Water Production Plant

The Lead Operator works under the Director of Water Production and requires specialized knowledge and the ability to work independently. This positions performs skilled and semi-skilled work to help ensure water treatment processes and equipment operate efficiently and effectively. The Lead Operator also works with the Plant Director to plan, assign, and review Plant Operators’ maintenance work. In addition, the Lead Operator provides technical support and guidance to the Operator-on-Duty when needed.

The regular weekly work schedule for this position is Monday-Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., however the incumbent will need to be available to respond to plant emergencies. The Water Production Plant is staffed 24/7 with 3 Operator-on-Duty shifts.

The Kenosha Water Utility (KWU) provides water and wastewater services to nearly 110,000 people in the Kenosha area of southeastern Wisconsin. KWU offers a full benefits package, including a Wisconsin Retirement System pension contribution, paid vacation, sick leave and holidays, health, dental and life insurance, overtime and compensatory time for emergency work outside regular hours, tuition reimbursement, and other benefits. More information is available osha.org.

• In coordination with the Plant Director, determines proper operation and process parameters and assists in their implementation.
• Under advisement from and/or in conjunction with the Plant Director, plans, assigns, supervises and reviews the work of Plant Operators when engaged in the operation and maintenance of water treatment processes or associated equipment.
• Provides technical and functional guidance related to optimal process efficiency to the Operator-on-Duty. Such guidance may need to be provided after normal work hours.
• Reads, monitors, interprets and records information taken from gauges, dials, and other instrumentation. Prepares and maintains logs, reports and other documentation.
• Troubleshoots, analyzes, and diagnoses malfunctioning equipment. Orders replacement parts and performs needed repairs or modifications; inspects and tests repaired or new equipment.
• Consults with outside contractors/vendors regarding specialized repairs or new installation; coordinates the scheduling of repair/installation work with assistance of the Plant Director or Utility Maintenance Supervisor.
• Coordinates sampling during the water treatment process and reviews laboratory results. Identifies and implements process control changes.
• Assists in the development of operational procedures and maintenance manuals.
• Identifies training needs; provides instruction or schedules training; works with Operators to correct any deficiencies.
• Compiles data and prepares regulatory, maintenance and other required reports.
• Provides feedback to the Plant Director on problems or concerns regarding Plant Operator performance or knowledge comprehension as it relates to water treatment processes.
• Adheres to and enforces proper and safe work practices in compliance with appropriate regulatory and department policies.
• Monitors and maintains inventory of supplies, such as parts, tools, equipment and materials; submits purchase order requisitions as necessary.
• Responds to emergency situations as required, which may occur after normal working hours. Ensures appropriate managers or personnel are notified.

• Performs the duties of Plant Operator as needed or during emergency situations.
• Directs and oversees plant operations in the absence of the Director.
• Responds to inquiries and complaints from customers and the public; notifies management of those inquiries which are non-routine or require higher authority or more technical involvement.
• Participates in…