CHIEF TREATMENT OPERATOR - WASTEWATER OPERATIONS
General Definition of Work
The City of Gastonia is seeking a Chief Treatment Plant Operator to provide technical leadership and oversight for wastewater operational staff. This role is centered on mentoring personnel, leading hands-on training, and serving as a primary technical resource for the Wastewater Division. Experienced Operators committed to staff development and operational excellence are encouraged to apply!
Essential Functions/Duties
- Supervises and schedules the work of personnel of the plant, gives instructions on operational procedures;
- Provides technical supervisory support to Operators;
- Plans and conducts or oversees in-service training of new employees;
- Inspects the operation of the plant to ensure conformance to standards and proper operation;
- Enforces plant safety regulations;
- Maintains daily records and reports on plant operations and activities;
- Participates in staff training;
- Serves as technical resource for Operations staff with regards to troubleshooting process control issues;
- Supervises operational quality control programs;
- Assists in coordinating Division-wide operational projects;
- Assists in coordinating Division-wide maintenance program;
- Serves as Operator On-Call for the Division;
- Supervises and/or participates in the preparation and submission of State and Federal Operational reports as required;
- Develops budget recommendations as requested;
- Oversees the conducting of operational analytical tests;
- Performs related tasks as required.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
- Advanced knowledge of the principles, practices, characteristics, and equipment of wastewater plant operations including detailed knowledge of the mechanical, electrical and process aspects of all facilities;
- Thorough knowledge of hydraulic, chemical and mechanical principles involved in the plant;
- Advanced knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions involved in plant operation and chemical treatment functions;
- Ability to make complex mathematical calculations;
- Ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions;
- Demonstrated leadership skills;
- Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing;
- Ability to supervise operations as on-call personnel;
- Ability to act on the behalf of the Plant Supervisor in his/her absence;
- Ability to establish and maintain effective interpersonal skills/working relationships with co-workers, subordinates and the general public.
Education/Experience/Physical Demands/Special Requirements/Additional Information
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelor’s degree in a physical or natural science (or equivalent combination of education and experience) with a minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in the operations and/or maintenance of a large wastewater treatment facility (5 years preferred); OR Associate degree (or equivalent) in a related field with a minimum of 5 years of progressive operations or maintenance experience in a large wastewater treatment facility (7 years preferred)
Any equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of a valid appropriate driver’s license. Possession of a NC Wastewater Plant Operator Grade IV certification within 3 years. Complete NIMS 100, 200, 300, 400 and 700 training within 12 months.