UTILITY LEAD OPERATOR

Position Summary

Under minimal supervision, responsible for the safe operations and maintenance of the Pueblo of Sandia Wastewater system collection and discharge infrastructure, and Water system wells, treatment, storage and distribution infrastructure.  The position will provide direction and supervision of Level II and Level I operators in the safe operations and maintenance of the Water/Wastewater infrastructure. The position is a lead operator and will assume responsibility for O&M in the absence of the Level 4 Supervisor.

Supervision Exercised

Supervised by the Utility Operator Level 4 Supervisor. 

 The Level III Operator is the lead operator and is responsible for O&M of the Water/Wastewater systems in accordance with Federal regulations, Pueblo policies and Supervisors directives.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

1. Oversees and evaluates work assigned to Utility Operators.
2. Conducts operations and maintenance labor activities of the water/wastewater treatment plant and potable water system.
3. Oversees the performance of the Utility Operator levels 1 & 2 in the operations and maintenance labor activities of the water/wastewater treatment plant and potable water system.
4. Assists Supervisor in maintaining an inventory of water treatment and potable water chemicals required.
5. Assists Supervisor in orientation of new Utility operator employees.
6. Assists Supervisor in scheduling daily employee activity.
7. Assists Supervisor in preparing employee disciplinary action reports and recommendations.
8. Assists Supervisor in preparing employee performance evaluations.
9. Prepares and maintains water/wastewater treatment files, records, reports, and related documents.
10. Enforces Water and Wastewater Operations standard operating procedures.
11. Assists Supervisor in preparing utility operators shift schedules.
12. Enters confined space entry where a fitted respirator is required.
13. Tests chlorine content of potable water system and maintains chlorine residuals at required disinfectant limits.  Maintains results on a daily report and continuous log.
14. Performs basic operator tests on PH, temperature, DO, and settling tests on the water/wastewater treatment plant.  Maintains results on a daily report and continuous log.
15. Cleans and maintains chlorine contact chambers.
16. Addresses federal and state agencies regarding technical potable and wastewater inquiries.
17. Performs additional duties and responsibilities as necessary or assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

1. Ability to supervise and direct the work of others.
2. Ability to use operational and maintenance tools used in the performance of work in a water/wastewater treatment plant, a potable water system, and sewer line routing.
3. Ability to prepare and maintain water/wastewater treatment and potable water reports and records.
4. Ability to maintain associated equipment operating and maintenance supply inventory.
5. Knowledge of general safety rules, requirements, procedures, and reporting requirements; particularly those safety regulations when working near waste water equipment and sources.
6. Ability to communicate effectively and maintain good public and employee relations.
7. Physical condition that allows employees to work wearing a fitted respirator.
8. Ability to work in small, cramped locations.
9. Ability to calibrate test equipment.
10. Ability to read, record, and analyze test equipment data.
11. Knowledge of federal, state testing requirements for potable water and wastewater chemicals.
12. Knowledge of the use and potential hazards of potable water and wastewater chemicals.
13. Ability to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.
14. Ability to administer first aid until Security Department assumes control.

Minimum Qualifications, Education and Experience

Required:

1. High School Diploma, GED certification or equivalent.
2. Three (3) years previous experience working in water treatment.
3. Must possess and maintain a valid, unrestricted New Mexico Driver’s License.
4. The following license and/or certifications are required prior to employment start date:

• Wastewater Level III
• Water Level II Certification

Preferred:

1. Prior supervisory experience in water treatment.
2. Current CPR Certificate.
3. Current First Aide.
4. Current Confined Space.

Licensing Status

1. Must be able to successfully pass a stringent background investigation.
2. Will require a post-offer, pre-employment and random drug screening.