Plant Manager - Wastewater Treatment Plant

GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB Under the general direction of the Assistant Director of Utilities or Utilities Director, the Wastewater Treatment Plant Manager plans, organizes, and directs the operation, maintenance, and regulatory compliance of the City of Margate’s wastewater treatment plant and associated treatment infrastructure.

The Plant Manager is responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the City’s wastewater treatment facility in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including those established by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

This position supervises plant personnel, manages treatment processes, oversees maintenance programs, supports capital improvement projects (CIP), and ensures accurate regulatory reporting. The position requires a high level of technical knowledge and independent judgment, as errors in operation or technical decision-making could result in regulatory violations, environmental damage, or interruption of essential public services.

Work is reviewed through meetings, written reports, and evaluation of plant operations to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and achievement of operational objectives. Performs related duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The following duties and functions, as outlined herein, are intended to be representative of the type of tasks performed within this position. They are not listed in any order of importance. The omission of specific statements of duties or functions does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this description.

Other duties may be required and assigned. Manages the daily operation of the City’s wastewater treatment plant to ensure continuous and efficient treatment of wastewater. Monitors plant performance data, laboratory results, and operational parameters to ensure compliance with discharge permit requirements. Ensures compliance with FDEP operating permits, EPA regulations, and all applicable environmental standards.

Prepares and reviews operational reports including Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) and other regulatory submittals. Maintains accurate operational logs, laboratory records, and compliance documentation. Coordinates plant operations during inspections by regulatory agencies. Receives and investigates complaints and requests from the customers.

Supervises wastewater treatment plant operators’ personnel. Assigns work schedules and ensures adequate operator staffing in accordance with regulatory and operational requirements. Provides technical guidance and training to plant staff. Conducts employee evaluations and recommends hiring, promotion, disciplinary actions, or termination as appropriate.

Promotes a safe and professional work environment. Oversee the routine maintenance of plant equipment including, but not limited to, pumps, blowers, clarifiers, aeration systems, chemical feed systems, instrumentation, and related infrastructure. Implements and maintains preventive and corrective maintenance programs.

Coordinates repairs and maintenance with Maintenance Superintendent, mechanics, electricians, contractors, and vendors. Maintains inventory of chemicals, equipment, spare parts, and operational supplies. Provides operational support and technical input for wastewater treatment plant rehabilitation and upgrade projects.

Coordinates with engineering staff, consultants, and contractors during design, construction, and commissioning of plant improvements. Participates in planning efforts related to plant reliability, capacity, and regulatory compliance. Assists in evaluating new technologies and operational improvements for the treatment facility.

Oversees plant instrumentation, monitoring equipment, and SCADA systems used for operational control. Ensures alarms, monitoring systems, and operational data systems function properly. Uses operational data to improve treatment efficiency and identify operational issues. Assists in preparation of the wastewater treatment plant operating budget.

Reviews and approves purchase requests for chemicals, equipment, and plant supplies. Coordinates procurement of materials, equipment, and services necessary for plant operation. Assists in preparation of cost estimates and operational reports. Responds to operational emergencies including equipment failures, process upsets, and severe weather events.

Coordinates plant operations during emergency situations to ensure continuous treatment service. Participates in the City’s emergency management operations when required. This position is considered an essential employee for emergency operations and may be required to report to work during declared emergencies or natural disasters.

Performs related duties and responsibilities as assigned. MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE Must possess a high school diploma or GED required. Must have a minimum of six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in wastewater treatment plant operations, supplemented by minimum three (3) years in a supervisory or lead capacity within a wastewater treatment facility.

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in environmental engineering, civil engineering, environmental science, or a closely related field is preferred and may substitute for a portion of the required experience and is preferred. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Class “A” Wastewater Operator License.

Must possess and maintain a valid State of Florida driver’s license. Experience managing wastewater treatment plant operations and regulatory compliance is highly desirable. Experience supporting wastewater treatment plant rehabilitation, upgrades, or capital improvement projects is preferred.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

OR STANDARDS REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Physical Requirements: Work requires standing, walking, climbing ladders, and occasionally lifting objects weighing up to approximately 50 pounds. Data Conception: Ability to evaluate, compare, and interpret observable characteristics of data, processes, equipment, or operational conditions in order to make informed decisions related to wastewater treatment operations.

Interpersonal Communication: Ability to effectively communicate with supervisors, staff, contractors, regulatory agencies, and the public. Includes giving and receiving instructions, assignments, and operational information. Language Abilities: Ability to read, understand, and interpret technical materials related to wastewater treatment operations, regulatory requirements, engineering documents, and operational procedures.

Analytical Ability: Ability to analyze and interpret technical information, identify operational problems, determine causes, and implement appropriate solutions. Ability to review technical reports, regulatory documents, and operational data, and compile and summarize information for reporting purposes. Must be able to effectively operate standard office and computer equipment, including computers, printers, and related software applications.

Verbal Aptitude: Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in Standard English, both verbally and in writing, including the use of technical terminology related to wastewater treatment operations. Numerical Aptitude: Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division; interpret charts and graphs; calculate percentages and decimals; and apply basic algebraic principles related to operational data and reporting.

Form/Spatial Aptitude: Ability to visually inspect equipment, structures, and operational conditions and interpret diagrams, drawings, maps, and technical information. Motor Coordination: Ability to coordinate hand and eye movements for inspection activities, equipment operation, and report preparation. Manual Dexterity: Ability to perform tasks requiring hand, finger, and arm coordination, including equipment operation and minor maintenance tasks.

Color Discrimination: Ability to distinguish between colors and shades of color, including interpretation of indicator lights, process monitoring systems, and laboratory results. Interpersonal Temperament: Ability to interact effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and departments while maintaining professionalism and composure.

Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced operational environment. Physical Communication : Ability to communicate verbally and hear conversations and operational sounds necessary for workplace communication and safety. Environmental Requirements: Work may involve exposure to outdoor weather conditions, wastewater treatment processes, chemicals, equipment noise, and other environmental conditions typical of wastewater treatment facilities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Extensive knowledge of modern wastewater treatment processes, operational practices, and technologies used in municipal wastewater treatment facilities. Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations governing wastewater treatment operations, including requirements of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP).

Knowledge of wastewater treatment plant equipment and systems including pumps, motors, blowers, aeration systems, clarifiers, chemical feed systems, instrumentation, and process control equipment. Knowledge of plant automation systems, including SCADA and process monitoring systems, and the ability to utilize operational data to evaluate plant performance and optimize treatment processes.

Knowledge of preventive and predictive maintenance practices used to maintain reliability of mechanical, electrical, and process equipment. Knowledge of occupational safety standards, hazard recognition, and safe work practices applicable to wastewater treatment plant operations. Ability to read, interpret, and apply engineering drawings, technical specifications, equipment manuals, and construction plans.

Ability to assist with planning, coordination, and implementation of capital improvement projects (CIP) related to wastewater treatment plant upgrades, rehabilitation, and expansion. Ability to develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs), maintenance procedures, and safety protocols for plant operations.

Ability to analyze operational and laboratory data to identify process issues and implement corrective actions to maintain regulatory compliance. Ability to prepare technical reports, operational summaries, and regulatory documentation. Ability to maintain accurate records and ensure timely submission of regulatory reports and compliance documentation.

Ability to assist in preparing cost estimates and evaluating equipment or infrastructure improvements based on engineering plans and operational needs. Ability to plan, coordinate, and oversee preventive and corrective maintenance programs for plant equipment and facilities. Ability to conduct and interpret basic laboratory testing associated with wastewater treatment processes.

Ability to perform or assist with minor mechanical and electrical troubleshooting and repairs when necessary. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, contractors, consultants, regulatory agencies, and the public. Ability to supervise personnel, coordinate work assignments, and maintain a safe and productive work environment.

DISCLAIMER The City of Margate, Florida, is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S. C. 12101 et. seq.), the City of Margate will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.