Lead Operator/AWTF

Consolidated Water Group,•Pico Rivera, CA
•$95,000 - $113,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Advanced Water Treatment Facility Lead Operator supervises and performs the work of subordinate operators while directing the day-to-day operation of an advanced water treatment facility. Treatment processes include influent pumping, ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, and UV advanced oxidation, as well as chemical storage and addition. The Lead Operator is the designated operator in charge when the Chief Plant Operator (CPO) is absent and carries operational responsibilities during the assigned shift and scheduled after-hours on-call duties. The role coordinates daily operations and maintenance in accordance with PERC Water’s QA/QC standards. The Lead Operator plans work with the CPO, supports operating and regulatory reporting, and helps ensure contractual obligations and deliverables are met. The position also coordinates operational tasks, develops SOPs and training curricula, trains operators and maintenance staff, maintains operational records and electronic management tools, and works with operations, maintenance, and safety personnel to assess facility and equipment condition. The work is performed in an advanced water treatment facility in an industrial setting, including indoor and outdoor areas. The schedule is an alternative workweek of four 10-hour shifts, either Sunday–Wednesday or Wednesday–Saturday, with normal business hours listed as 6:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Weekend, night, or holiday work may be needed, and scheduled on-call availability is required. The position may also be called in to assist during plant emergencies.

Requirements

  • Minimum Grade III Wastewater Operator certification or T-3 Water Treatment Operator certification issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board; no exceptions.
  • Must obtain an AWWA Advanced Water Treatment Grade 3 certification within 12 months of employment.
  • Three years of prior supervisory experience.
  • At least three years of experience in water or wastewater treatment plant facility operations.
  • Valid California driver’s license.
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent, plus college-level coursework in water, wastewater, chemistry, or biology; an equivalent combination of education and experience may meet the essential duties.
  • Must work to acquire an AWTO Grade 3 certification at minimum.
  • High degree of self-motivation and strong leadership skills.
  • Good mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity.
  • Ability to use power and hand tools in wet conditions.
  • Ability to work closely and collaboratively with others and maintain effective working relationships.
  • Good verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to exchange information, receive work direction, and communicate clearly in English.
  • General computer knowledge and working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
  • Ability to stand, sit for extended periods, and walk; use hands, eyes, arms, and voice; regularly lift, push, and pull up to 40 pounds; and climb stairs and ladders.
  • Ability to climb on or into facility equipment and systems; confined-space training is required.
  • Ability to work weekends, nights, or holidays as needed.
  • Availability for scheduled on-call duties.
  • Ability to read, write, spell, and communicate clearly in English on business topics.

Nice To Haves

  • CWEA mechanical technician certification is highly desirable.
  • Bachelor’s degree is preferred.
  • Willingness to travel is a plus.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee and perform assignments related to operation and maintenance of an advanced wastewater treatment facility, including ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, and UV advanced oxidation processes.
  • Serve as the Designated Operator-in-Charge in the CPO’s absence.
  • Plan assignments with the CPO to support workflow and completion of work activities.
  • Assist the CPO with operating and regulatory reports and maintain knowledge of facility contractual obligations and deliverables.
  • Plan, coordinate, and participate in daily operational activities.
  • Develop operational SOPs and training curricula.
  • Monitor plant equipment and processes.
  • Collect and process water-quality samples, including preparing and labeling sample bottles and following approved sampling methods.
  • Manage plant chemical inventory.
  • Clean, maintain, and optimize membrane systems.
  • Manage electronic operations and management tools, including data management and CMMS.
  • Conduct training for subordinate operators and maintenance staff as directed by the CPO.
  • Compile, prepare, and maintain reports and logs.
  • Inspect and evaluate equipment, systems, and the treatment facility; coordinate with the CPO, Maintenance Manager, and designated Health and Safety Officer as appropriate.
  • Participate in facility housekeeping and maintenance, including sweeping, cleaning, sanding, and painting.
  • Operate motorized vehicles, forklifts, and other mobile equipment.
  • Participate in facility safety training and follow PERC Water Corp. safety procedures.
  • Troubleshoot and repair parts and systems.
  • Assist with plant operations and maintenance during emergencies when called in.
  • Communicate problems and issues to the supervisor.
  • Perform other tasks assigned by the Project Manager or CPO and maintain attendance in accordance with PERC standards.
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