Operations Supervisor I - Public Works, Public Works/Utilities/Maintenance Division

Howard County GovernmentMaryland 21045, MD
Onsite

About The Position

Howard County Government is seeking outstanding individuals to join their team and contribute to excellence in county operations. They offer a highly talented, diverse, and inclusive workplace where input is encouraged. The county provides competitive compensation and great benefits, including medical, retirement, and wellness programs. This specific role is a front-line field supervisory position directing the activities of the Water and Sewer Construction/Maintenance crew. Responsibilities include the layout and scheduling of water/sewer repairs and house connection installation, leak detection, and customer inquiry and complaint resolution. This is a Classified position within the Howard County Classified Service upon completion of a probationary period. It is designated as "essential personnel," requiring reporting for duty during inclement weather, emergency situations, County holidays, and on-call basis. This position is represented by AFSCME Local 3085, Local 3888, or Local 1810.

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED and four (4) years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • A valid Class C driver's license.
  • A certified Maryland Flagger Card or can obtain within six (6) months of employment.
  • Successful passage of the examination for Water Distribution Operator and Wastewater Collection Class 2 operator's license prior to appointment or at the first available opportunity offered by the Maryland State Board of Waterworks and Waste System Operators.
  • Applicants with appropriate experience and equivalent licensing from another state will be considered for employment but will be required to obtain a statement of reciprocity from the Maryland State Board prior to appointment.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
  • Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.
  • Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.
  • Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form.
  • Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.

Nice To Haves

  • Possession of a valid CDL license Class B, issued by the State of Maryland, with a valid DOT card and the ability to obtain a CDL license Class A, if work requires, is preferred.
  • Experience and knowledge of industry practices for water/sewer construction, water distribution system operation, and wastewater collection system operation.
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints and contract documents.
  • Thorough knowledge of principles, practices, methods and techniques of laboring and motor equipment operation activities as they relate to utility construction and maintenance work.
  • Thorough knowledge of tools, equipment, materials and supplies used in public works or other construction and maintenance work.
  • Considerable knowledge of the functions, operation and routine care and maintenance of a variety of motor and mechanical equipment.
  • Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions involved in laboring and equipment operation activities.
  • Knowledge of supervisory methods and techniques.
  • Ability to plan, assign and review the work activities of laboring and equipment operation crews.
  • Ability to estimate materials, supplies, tools, equipment and man hours needed to complete assigned tasks.

Responsibilities

  • Directs crews in performing water/sewer line maintenance activities.
  • Directs crews on tasks such as excavation, inspection and grouting, road surfacing, laying pipe, tree trimming and removal and a variety of other operations.
  • Directs the activities of the repaving subcontractors for all public roadways after water/sewer repair/installation.
  • Trains subordinate crew members in equipment operations, trades practices, and care and use of tools and materials.
  • Assists in interviewing personnel and recommends hiring.
  • Performs on-call duties for after-hours emergency response on a rotational basis.
  • Schedules installation of all water and sewer connections installed by the Bureau of Utilities.
  • Performs layout work, coordinates with builders and plumbers.
  • Performs leak detection for water distribution system, including mains and house services.
  • Conducts investigations into customer inquiries and complaints.
  • Operates heavy equipment such as hydraulic excavator, forklifts, compressors, trenchers.
  • Performs skilled construction and maintenance work as needed by unit to which assigned.
  • Reads blueprints and contract maps, lines and grades when needed to accomplish portions of a construction or maintenance project.
  • Observes instruments while vehicle is in operation and performs routine corrective action.
  • Inspects vehicles for safety and maintenance issues.
  • Operates County vehicles in connection with maintenance duties or for regular duties.
  • Completes job sheets and time sheets.
  • Enters data into computer database.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
  • Directly supervises a number of employees.
  • Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.
  • Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Benefits

  • medical
  • retirement
  • wellness programs
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