Supervisor - Utility and Wastewater (Maintenance)

At Freshpet, our goal is to change the way people nourish their pets forever. We strive to strengthen the bond between people and our pets so that we both live longer, healthier, and happier lives while being kind to the planet. We believe that if we can create fresh, real foods that pets love and help them live healthier lives, that their pet parents will also enjoy the many benefits of a rich life shared with a pet.

About the role

The Utility and Wastewater Supervisor is responsible for supervising the team that operates and maintains our WWTP system: maintaining motors, pumps, aerators, filters, DAFs, EQ tanks, flow meters, and related equipment to control the flow and processing of wastewater. This process includes filtration/coagulation of solids, pH control, performing chemical tests of plant influent and effluent, and documenting and maintaining data regarding plant operations for quality assurance purposes and required submission to regulatory officials. This role may include developing standard operating procedures, making process control decisions, and ensuring adherence to established procedures and regulatory requirements in the operation of wastewater treatment plants.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team that operates a variety of equipment/machinery associated with the wastewater treatment facility including but not limited to Receiving Pits, EQ tank, screening systems, DAFs, chemical make-down skids, lab equipment, etc.
• Train new employees in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment equipment, collection and conveyance systems, and associated testing and regulatory compliance processes.
• Serve as the key point of contact for all third-party service providers that interface with the WWTP operation, including state/local regulatory agencies & municipalities.
• Perform periodic checks and basic preventative and corrective maintenance tasks on equipment.
• Conduct routine testing and monitoring of wastewater processes and laboratory analyses.
• Author, standardize, and document treatment process of WWTP facility equipment and chemicals through our SOP library & CMMS.
• Assist with the implementation of new equipment, technologies, and practices to improve infrastructure reliability, sustainability, and to reduce operational costs.
• Support continuous improvement, safety improvement, and 5S projects for the WWTP.
• Assure highest level of safety and compliance with safety and environmental requirements.
• Work with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) to capture preventative maintenance tasks, work orders, and work requests.
• Support safety initiatives and behavioral based safety observation program.
• Record data on plant operations, equipment maintenance, personnel attendance, and meter and gauge readings and report required information to regulatory officials.
• Prepare periodic reports on plant operations as required by the PA Department of Environmental Protection and other regulatory agencies.
• Develop and implement maintenance schedules, maintain maintenance records, determine the need for repairs, and respond to related emergencies.
• Review reports submitted by subordinates and prepare reports on plant operations and continuity of services.

Requirements

• HS Diploma or GED equivalent required, associate or bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum (3) three years of experience in the operation and maintenance of water/wastewater systems, including some supervisory experience.
• Strong maintenance background with excellent process, mechanical, and electrical troubleshooting aptitude.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with SDS, PPE, Chemical and Safety programs, and requirements.
• Understanding of and ability to work within Continuous Improvement / Operational Excellence methodologies to drive sustainable improvement in Safety, Quality and Reliability.
• Experience managing an operating budget & labor costs preferred.
• Experience with CMMS and BMS systems preferred.
• Ability to read general layout drawings, equipment parts lists & other technical documentation.
• Ability to use basic computer programs (Microsoft Office Suite) with ability to perform basic data analysis preferred.

Pay

The range for this position is: $95,000 - $110,000.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and an excellent benefits package, including medical, dental and vision insurance.
• Basic and optional life insurance, short- and long-term disability protection.
• Flexible spending accounts, and a 401(k) plan with company match.
• Paid parental leave, pet insurance, tuition assistance, a generous PTO plan, and more.