Lead Operator - Wastewater

Overview

Under the direction of the Utilities Manager, the Wastewater Lead Operator operates and supervises utility operations. The lead operator is responsible for sewer treatment operations, lift station operations, sewer collection system, regular and preventative maintenance, and emergency repairs. This employee will use independent judgment, being fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit with minimal supervisory responsibility.

• Assists the Utilities Manager in planning, organizing, assigning, directing, and reviewing the work of employees engaged in the daily operations and maintenance of the wastewater treatment plant, lift stations, and reclaimed water distribution and disposal facilities
• Operation and maintenance of facilities to meet all applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with design criteria. Assists in developing and implementing techniques and methods of process control which increase plant efficiency
• Coordinates equipment repair or replacement such that plant effluent quality limits are maintained
• Works with Utility Manager to oversee the work of others contracted to work on plant components
• Manages wastewater flow, equipment operations, performs laboratory analyses to ensure adequate process control
• Prepares monthly, quarterly, and annual reports and submits to the Utilities Manager or Director
• Assists in overseeing and implementing the preventive maintenance program for all facilities
• Assists in the implementation of the plant safety program
• Assists in training operators, field technicians, and maintenance technicians
• Prepares work orders using a software work order system
• Initiates requisitions for tools, materials, equipment, and services
• Will be required to work on-call shifts, and subject to call back emergencies
• Regular and consistent attendance for assigned work hours is essential
• This position is considered essential during a natural or manmade disaster and/or a catastrophic event. This position may be required to provide service or perform duties for the benefit of the public and continuity of City operations. These may include services or duties different from those performed in the usual course and scope of this position

The physical demands and environmental conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work requires sufficient physical strength, agility, dexterity, and hand-eye-foot coordination to perform all essential functions. Duties also require frequent sitting, walking, kneeling, squatting, pushing, pulling, twisting, and bending.

Work also requires employees to climb and work from ladders and support up to heights of 45 feet. Work is performed primarily outdoors and exposes employees to potential hazards such as extreme weather conditions, dust, noise, and exhaust fumes. Employees are also exposed to potential physical hazards when working off ladders and supports, and to potential chemical hazards when handling and applying chemicals.

Work requires the frequent use of safety clothing and equipment and compliance with safety rules and procedures.

Work requires a high school diploma or GED equivalent, and four (4) years of experience in operations and maintenance of wastewater systems, or a combination of education, experience, and the following:

• Knowledge of City policies and procedures
• Understand the methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in the operation, maintenance, inspection, repair, and installation of wastewater treatment plant components
• Understand the mechanical, biological, and chemical processes involved in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant
• Understand the occupational hazards in wastewater treatment plants and safety measures to be implemented
• Work with raw sewage and chemicals using normal protective equipment
• Recognize equipment and needed repairs and process problems
• Understand and follow oral and written instructions in the English language and perform calculations using equations and formulas to determine required materials
• Perform, analyze, and interpret laboratory tests for the purpose of making operational adjustments
• Ability to lead assigned staff
• Occupational hazards and standard safety practices including confined spaces
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work

• Valid State of Texas Driver License
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screening, physical agility exam, criminal background, and MVR check
• Class B Wastewater Treatment Operator License