Lead Plant Operator

Lead Plant Operator Under direction, the Lead Plant Operator leads, oversees, and participates in the work of staff responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining plant equipment, including engines, motors, boilers, compressors, and pumps to control unit processes. The operator performs complex and advanced functions, provides training and field guidance to operators, and ensures the treatment plant operates within regulatory guidelines. Additionally, the selected individual will plan, coordinate, and execute construction‑related outages and major maintenance shutdowns, including complex shutdown activities, lead and direct field activities of operators responsible for isolation of equipment and processes, and oversee construction‑related field activities. The operator will also perform shift supervisor duties in the absence of the Operations Supervisor. Key Responsibilities Lead, oversee, and participate in staff work for operating, monitoring, and maintaining plant equipment. Execute construction‑related outages and major maintenance shutdowns. Generate written outage and LOTO procedures for operations staff. Direct field activities for operators handling isolation of equipment and processes. Attend Capital Improvement Program design and construction meetings, and Operations and Maintenance planning meetings. Assume shift supervisor duties when the Operations Supervisor is absent. Qualifications High school diploma or G.E.D., supplemented by college‑level coursework or specialized training in wastewater treatment plant operations or a related field. Five (5) years of increasingly responsible experience in wastewater treatment plant operations. Valid Grade IV California Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator's Certification. Valid California Class C Driver's License. Advanced knowledge of wastewater treatment principles, methods, chemicals, tools, equipment, and regulatory requirements. Effective written and oral communication skills. Computer proficiency. Salary and Vacancies Hiring Salary Range: $57.90 - $63.85 per hour (starting salary determined by qualifications). Vacancies: 2. Physical Demands Mobility to work the plant; ability to sit, stand, walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; frequently reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, grasp, and make repetitive hand movements. Climb and descend ladders and operate various hand and power tools and equipment. Operate a motor vehicle and visit various sites, projects, and meetings. Lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 51 pounds with proper equipment or assistance. Perform medium to heavy physical work and enter confined spaces with protective equipment. Use vision, including color vision, to read printed materials, recording devices, monitors, gauges, and identify appurtenances. Field work requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards. Finger dexterity to use a computer keyboard or calculator and operate tools and equipment. Environmental Elements Field work with exposure to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather, road hazards, vibration, confining workspace, heights, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, hazardous physical substances and fumes, dust, and air contaminants. Interaction with upset staff and/or public and private representatives while interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures. Disaster Service Worker All employees are designated as Disaster Service Workers by state law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109) and must affirm a loyalty oath. Employees must complete all required training and return to work as ordered during emergencies. Other Requirements Probationary period provisions apply to all employees except at‑will classifications as specified by the applicable memorandum. Employment offers depend upon successful completion of a pre‑employment process including background investigation, physical examination, and drug screen. Work location assignment may change based on business needs and can be at any or all OC San locations. #J-18808-Ljbffr Orange County Sanitation District