RWHTF Plant Operator Lead

Performs leadership-level plant operator activities and provides technical support to the Operations Supervisor in managing the efficient and compliant operation of RWHTF or NTP. Oversee and performs skilled work and tasks required to operate, monitor, and control the performance of liquid and solids stream unit process equipment. Works under the general direction of an Operations Supervisor. Performs supervisory roles as requested and in the absence of the Operations Supervisor.

Examples of Duties:

1. Ensure that weekly operational targets are being followed. Performs shift tie-in and related communication activities.
2. Oversees control systems, field monitoring and field adjustments. Manages day-to-day operation of all treatment processes and equipment within the facility. 
3. Ensures compliance with Federal and State regulations and standards for the wastewater discharge, stormwater, air and biosolids permits.
4. Ensures that safety and training programs for the RWHTF and NTP plants are being followed.
5. Ensures process optimization, monitors operation, and performs troubleshooting required to achieve process targets.
6. Assists in training of Plant Operator Technician, Plant Operator I and Plant Operator II staff.  Mentors Plant Operator III staff.
7. Provides input on performance of Plant Operator staff to Operations Supervisors.
8. Performs and verifies Lock Out Tag Out procedures and compliance.
9. Executes existing Standard Operating Procedures, identifies constraints, and makes updates as necessary.
10. Follow established operational reporting lines when reporting incidents, requesting resources, addressing interdepartmental concerns, initiating non-routine tasks or changes to standard operating procedures.
11. Identifies maintenance needs and prepares work order requests.
12. Coordinates process unit startup and shutdown activities with impacted stakeholder groups.
13. Acts as Operations Supervisor during absences and performs supervisory duties as requested. 
14. Provides input for MOP/COP generation; supports the execution of MOP/COP work.
15. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Knowledge of:

• Standard Operating Procedures for complex processes
• Regulatory and SOP/MOP compliance
• Utility infrastructure and feeds. 
• Industrial equipment and maintenance
• Emergency operations planning and response
• Conducting field measurements, observations and analyses
• Safety standards/practices and emergency response procedures
• Wastewater and process technology
• Operator training programs for the RWHTF and NTP
• General leadership competencies
• General office processes and procedures
• MS Office software

Skilled at:

• Monitoring of advanced technical systems/equipment 
• Executing SOP/MOP for regulatory compliance
• Solving complex operational issues and troubleshooting efforts
• Following communication protocols
• Work effectively in cross-functional teams and coordinating across teams and shifts
• Delivering effective hands-on training
• Managing disagreements and de-escalating conflict
• Safety practices and standards including Lock Out Tag Out safety procedures
• Making operations decisions based on utilizing operational documentation and diverse monitoring systems
• Perform advanced mathematics and apply to operations
• Communicating and comprehending technical procedures and manuals
• Operating a Class A Activated sludge wastewater treatment facility or similar (as defined in CDPHE Regulation 100)
• Technical writing
• Manage multiple priorities independently
• Leveraging diverse modes of communication to optimize the effective exchange of ideas and information
• Utilizing technology to seek and share resources and information

Ability to:

• Communicate effectively verbally and in writing
• Assists in the creation and execution of construction operating procedures and associated operations
• Take on leadership responsibilities when a supervisor is not present
• Lead and motivate teams
• Maintain performance under pressure
• Provide and ensure guidance is given and met with junior staff and larger teams
• Recognize and shift priorities as needed
• Monitor mechanical equipment to inform potential maintenance needs
• Perform effectively in a collaborative team environment
• Think and act strategically in an organizational “Big Picture” context
• Identify problems, craft effective solutions, act decisively and demonstrate good judgement
• Maintain emotional control under ambiguous and stressful circumstances

Education
High school diploma or GED. Colorado Class A Wastewater Operator Certification or ability to attain it through reciprocity. 

Working Conditions:

Typical Work Environment   
Wet/Humidity conditions; Residential and Commercial wastewater/Biosolids; Variety of floor surfaces including concrete, gravel, asphalt, dirt, tile, loose stones, uneven surfaces, slippery surfaces, wet surfaces; Inside environment; Outside environment all year in all weather conditions and temperatures;   Chemicals;  Lighting conditions including natural light, fluorescent, head lamps,  incandescent, and low light;  Vibration; Moving equipment and vehicles; Work at heights; Work in confined spaces
 
Body Position Demands
Standing; Walking; Climbing stairs; Climbing ladders; Reaching forward and overhead; Balancing; Object handling; Simple hand/ Firm hand grasping; Operating controls; Sitting; Stooping; Kneeling; Crouching; Crawling; Typing; Fine hand coordination
 
Physical Demands (max forces are expected to be infrequent)
Max Weight Lifted: 42 lbs
Max Weight Carried: 42 lbs
Max Force Pushed: 98 lbs
Max Force Pulled: 128 lbs
 
Sensory Requirements
Wide field of view; Perception - Spatial; Olfactory (Smelling); Vision - Near; Depth perception; Color discrimination; Perception - Form; Feeling without seeing; Speaking; Vision - Far; Hearing