OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE SPECIALIST III

Operations And Maintenance Specialist III - 40011475

The Operations & Maintenance Specialist III position is responsible for performing senior-level, skilled and technical work in the operation of the County-owned Triangle Wastewater Treatment Plant (TWWTP). This position plays a critical part in ensuring regulatory compliance, system efficiency, and environmental safety. Serves as a technical expert, leads troubleshooting efforts, and supports training and mentorship of junior staff.

The TWWTP is rated for an average daily flow of 12 million gallons per day and is specifically designed to meet future nutrient load requirements for the Jordan Lake nutrient management strategy. The TWWTP serves the southeast portion of Durham County inside and outside the Durham City limits and serves the Research Triangle Park within Durham County.

Coordinates preventative and corrective maintenance with Operations & Maintenance specialist and maintenance staff to minimize downtime and maintain efficiency. Maintains accurate records, logs, and reports for regulatory compliance and internal tracking. Leads and participates in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment process including influent pumping, primary/secondary treatment, disinfection, and sludge handling Assists in inventory control and procurement of equipment, supplies, and chemicals. Assists in the preparation of monthly work schedules. Coordinates daily and weekly sampling schedules for process control and compliance monitoring. Performs process control testing on plant samples. Assists in the preparation of required reports. Serves as Back-up Operator in Responsible Charge (BORC) as needed. Monitors and adjust process control parameters using SCADA and field instrumentation. Serves as back-up laboratory analyst. Provides training and mentorship to Operations & Maintenance staff. Participates in emergency response. Completes special projects as assigned. Performs other related duties as assigned.

General knowledge of the principles, procedures, and techniques used in the operation of wastewater treatment facilities. Thorough knowledge of chemical, physical, and bacteriological analyses of wastewater. Thorough knowledge of the operation and maintenance of the equipment used in wastewater treatment. Thorough knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations related to wastewater treatment and laboratory analyses. Strong communication, organizational, and team leadership skills. Proficiency in SCADA systems, CMMS platforms, and Microsoft Office. Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written form. Ability to read, write and perform basic mathematical calculations. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers.

Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school. Five (5) years of experience in municipal or industrial wastewater treatment, laboratory operations, wastewater system inspection, or related experience with two years in a lead or supervisory role. Must possess a valid NC Driver's license and an acceptable three-year driving history for the type of vehicle or equipment operated. Must possess a Grade IV NC Biological Water Pollution Control Operator certification.

Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement. Performs work that involves standing, walking, and climbing the stairs regularly; use hands and fingers, to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; The employee must be able to regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Unavoidable hazards refer to job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken. Exposed to moving mechanical parts and vibrations. Involves working around toxic and hazardous chemicals. Occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. Exposed to fumes and airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals. Risk of electrical shock.