Assistant Operations Manager
About The Position
The Assistant Operations Manager supports the Operations Manager in directing the daily operation of AlexRenew’s Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF), external pump stations, interceptor systems, tunnel infrastructure, and combined sewer outfalls. The position coordinates Operations Supervisors and operating staff, monitors process performance, maintains operational records, supports training and professional development, and helps ensure safe, reliable service and regulatory compliance. The Assistant Operations Manager may act on behalf of the Operations Manager when assigned, within delegated authority. The Operations Manager retains designated Operator in Responsible Charge responsibilities unless a separate designation is formally made. The position works a swing shift from 1:30 AM to 11:00 AM, Monday through Thursday, alternating between an eight-hour shift on Friday and a scheduled Friday off. The Assistant Operations Manager also serves as a backup Operator in Responsible Charge and is on call 24 hours per day.
Requirements
- Virginia Wastewater Works Operator Class 1 License, or ability to obtain it within one year of accepting the job assignment.
- Experience with process control, SCADA, maintenance management systems, regulatory records, emergency response, and occupational safety practices.
- Knowledge of advanced wastewater treatment, pumping and collection systems, laboratory and field testing, applicable permits, and operating procedures.
- Ability to interpret trends, identify operational risk, make timely decisions within assigned authority, and communicate urgent issues clearly.
- Ability to direct and develop employees, plan shift coverage, document performance, and coordinate effectively with Maintenance, Laboratory, Process, Engineering, and external partners.
- Strong written communication, record review, and computer skills, including Microsoft Office, SCADA, and asset or work order systems.
- Knowledge of OSHA standard requirements for industrial safety and basic utility-related emergency procedures.
- Knowledge of business management and project management principles and practices.
- Ability to perform the essential duties satisfactorily, with reasonable accommodation as applicable.
Nice To Haves
- Bachelor’s degree in water or wastewater treatment, environmental science, biology, chemistry, engineering, or a related area; a combination of education and experience will be considered.
- Five years of progressively responsible supervisory experience in a public sector wastewater utility or similar industry is desired.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate daily staffing, shift coverage, priorities, assignments, and work handoffs with Operations Supervisors; follow up on completion and escalate unresolved operational issues to the Operations Manager.
- Monitor plant processes and collection system infrastructure through SCADA, operating reports, laboratory results, and field inspections; recommend or direct operating adjustments within approved procedures and delegated authority.
- Participate in daily process and coordination meetings and communicate process changes, equipment limitations, maintenance activities, weather impacts, and operational risks across shifts and departments.
- Assist in supervising and coaching Operations Supervisors and staff; support performance evaluations, employee development plans, corrective action documentation, and consistent application of policies.
- Assist in developing and maintaining operating schedules, training plans, procedures, checklists, and shift communication practices; verify staff competency and completion of required training.
- Review logs, sampling records, operating data, incident reports, and other compliance documentation for completeness and accuracy; coordinate corrections and timely escalation of potential permit or regulatory issues.
- Coordinate operational support for preventive and corrective maintenance, shutdowns, capital projects, contractor work, and equipment commissioning; confirm operating constraints and safe return to service.
- Support emergency response, wet weather operations, after-hours coverage, and incident follow-up; assign resources, document actions, and notify the Operations Manager and other stakeholders as required.
- Promote safe work practices, personal protective equipment use, hazard reporting, and participation in AlexRenew’s Environmental Management System and safety programs.
- Coordinate with laboratory and process teams on sampling, treatment performance, and process optimization; support the Pretreatment Program when facility impacts require operational input.
- Help develop operating budgets and forecasts for chemicals, supplies, training, equipment, and contracted services; review inventory and purchasing needs within delegated approval limits.
- Assist in developing operational summaries, recommendations, procedures, and reports for the Operations Manager; identify recurring issues and implement approved improvements.
- Maintain knowledge of current relevant issues and industry trends.
- Serve as backup Operator in Responsible Charge (ORC), on call 24 hours per day.
- Perform other related duties as assigned by the Chief Operator.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
