Public Works : Wastewater Supervisor
This position is responsible for performing lead duties in the operations, maintenance, and repair of the city's wastewater infrastructure including gravity sewer lines, force mains, manholes, lift stations, and related appurtenances. This position ensures the efficient and effective functioning of the system, compliance with all regulatory requirements, and the timely resolution of collection system issues to prevent sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) and protect public health and the environment.
This class specification lists the major duties and requirements of the job and is not all-inclusive. Incumbent(s) may be expected to perform job-related duties other than those contained in this document and may be required to have specific job-related knowledge and skills.
- Leads and performs duties related to the installation, maintenance, and repair of wastewater system components, and assists water operations as required.
- Recommends selection of staff, trains staff and provides for their professional development, and administers discipline as required.
- Assists in planning goals, objectives, procedures and work standards.
- Contributes to the overall quality of the division's service provision by developing and coordinating work teams and by reviewing, recommending and implementing improved policies and procedures.
- Provides technical guidance and assistance to staff in the resolution of complex operational and maintenance problems.
- Fosters a safe and productive work environment, promoting adherence to all safety policies and procedures.
- Oversees the inspection, cleaning, flushing, and repair of gravity sewer lines and force mains using various techniques (e.g., CCTV inspection, hydro-jetting, root cutting).
- Manages the preventative maintenance program for the collection system, including routine cleaning schedules and structural assessments.
- Supervises the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of wastewater lift stations, including pumps, motors, control panels, and telemetry systems.
- Responds to and directs emergency call-outs for sewer blockages, overflows, main breaks, and other collection system failures, often outside of normal working hours.
- Coordinates with other utility departments (e.g., water, streets) to minimize conflicts and ensure efficient project execution.
- Ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to wastewater collection systems (e.g., NPDES permits, EPA guidelines, local ordinances).
- Participates in audits and inspections by regulatory bodies.
- Responds to citizen inquiries and complaints regarding sewer issues in a professional and timely manner.
- Communicates effectively with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders during system disruptions or planned maintenance activities.
- Directs crew activities in emergency situations, i.e., sewer backups, water main breaks etc.
- Requisitions necessary equipment and materials.
- Maintains time and material records, and prepares routine work reports.
- Responds to after-hours emergencies.
- Perform preventative maintenance on related equipment.
- Calibrates a variety of facility and field instrumentation.
- Answer telephone and operates plant SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system.
- Assists customers with inquiries pertaining to wastewater backups and smells.
- May perform plumbing, carpentry, and concrete work.
- Promotes and supports the overall mission of the City by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with public and staff; acts in a manner that promotes a harmonious and effective workplace environment.
- Performs duties as assigned by Supervisor.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability required.
High School Diploma / GED; AND five (5) years of wastewater operations experience; OR an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Interior plumbing experience strongly preferred.
Continued employment is contingent upon all required licenses and certificates being maintained in active status without suspension or revocation.
Possession of a valid South Dakota Class III Wastewater Collection Operator's certificationPossession of a valid South Dakota Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).Possession of OSHA 30 CertificationCompletion of approved management training course (i.e. APWA Supervisors Certificate program).Required Knowledge :
Knowledge of the principles and practices of employee supervision, including selection, work planning, organization, performance review and evaluations, and employee training and discipline.Knowledge of the principles and practices of developing teams, motivating employees and supervising in a team environment.Knowledge of the principles and practices of modern wastewater treatment plant operations and maintenance.Knowledge of the principles and practices of the physical, biological, and chemical characteristics of wastewater treatment including microbiological and bacteriological analyses.Knowledge of the types and functions of gravity sewers, force mains, manholes, and lift stations.Knowledge of the methods and equipment used for sewer cleaning, inspection (CCTV), and repair (e.g., trenchless technologies).Knowledge of electrical and mechanical principles as they relate to lift stations and pumps.Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local environmental regulations (e.g., Clean Water Act, NPDES).Knowledge of safety procedures and practices related to confined space entry, traffic control, and hazardous materials.Knowledge of troubleshooting and problem-solving wastewater collection system issues.Knowledge of operating and maintaining specialized wastewater collection equipment.Knowledge of using computer software for record-keeping, work orders, and reporting (e.g., CMMS systems).Knowledge of Federal, state and local requirements and regulations pertaining to wastewater treatment.Knowledge of standard traffic laws and ordinances, safety regulations, principles, practices, safety data sheets (SDS) and equipment related to the work.Knowledge of the tools and equipment used in the trade.Required Skills :
Ability to plan, organize, supervise, review and evaluate the work of assigned staff.Ability to train others in policies and procedures related to the work.Ability to assist in developing and implementing goals, objectives, policies, procedures and work standards.Ability to safely use and maintain hand and power tools related to the work.Ability to make accurate arithmetic calculations.Ability to read and interpret plans, maps and instructions.Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions.Ability to prepare basic records and reports of work performed.Ability to operate a wide variety of light and heavy motorized equipment.Ability to contribute effectively to the accomplishment of team or work unit goals, objectives and activities.Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, other departments, and the public.Ability to adapt to new technologies and changing regulatory requirements.Ability to perform general maintenance work, individually or as a member of a crew, in various areas, depending upon the function.The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Mobility to work in an outdoor setting, typical shop or related maintenance setting, including operating typical trade test equipment, hand and power tools and standard office equipment; stamina to stand, walk and climb and to work in confined or awkward spaces for an extended period of time; strength to lift and maneuver materials and equipment weighing up to 100 pounds with proper equipment; vision to read printed materials; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and hearing and speech to communicate in person or over a radio or telephone.
While performing the duties of this job the employee is exposed to wet and / or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals; outside weather conditions and extreme heat or cold. The employee is occasionally exposed to high, precarious places; extreme heat; and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. This position is classified as "Essential Personnel."