Lead Wastewater Operator

Who Are We: At Natural Systems Utilities, we are dedicated to providing sustainable, innovative solutions in the water and wastewater services industry. Specializing in the design, operation, and maintenance of utility systems, we prioritize environmental responsibility, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Join our team and be part of an organization that values teamwork, integrity, and a commitment to a sustainable future.

Summary: The service area lead operator provides day-to-day assistance and support to the Service Area Supervisor. The lead operator’s duties include but are not limited to administrative support with required reporting on site guidance for the area’s operation staff. Assistance with workorder input, implementation, and completion. The lead operator also provides feedback to the area Supervisor on plant and employee performance.  The work is performed under the direction of the Service Area Supervisor. The intension of the Lead Operator role is to build a solid succession plan for the future of the business unit and to act as supervisor in the absence of the area supervisor. 

 Duties And Responsibilities:

• Assists as directed by the Area Supervisor in ensuring that service area activities support the overall operation/efficiency of water and wastewater utilities project sites within a designated geographical area.
• Assist with managing, materials, and supplies purchasing and inventory for the area and projects assigned 
• Promote health and safety culture within the designated Service Area, including assisting with the carrying out of all actions to rectify issues identified by the Environmental Health and Safety group. 
• Assist in the evaluation of operations, maintenance, and support functions within the designated area. 
• Ensures the area’s operations staff is complying with new practices and procedures developed by the area supervisors 
• Demonstrate visible "leadership by example" utilizing participative management involving MN Service Area Operations staff, peers, and teamwork whenever possible. Interact with peers, superiors, other agencies, and civilian customers to facilitate smooth system function
• Assist with the development of technical price proposals for new capital improvement projects and contract bids. Include the development of the technical scope of work, development of proposals, assisting in the bidding process, equipment selection, budgetary estimating and proposal writing activities
• Support the Business Performance team with technical-related concerns in support of routine contract proposal price redeterminations, including the review and development of technical and cost evaluations and proposals
• Participate in project transition including assisting in recruitment, vendor selection, etc.
• Performs other related duties as assigned by management

 Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Indirectly supervises 1-5 employees within the Service Area operations department(s).
• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.
• Responsibilities include assistance in reviewing candidates and may involve assistance with interviewing when appropriate; planning, assigning, and directing work; assistance with appraising performance during the review process. 
• Independently manage his/her own schedule. 
• Work with other NSU departments, engineering staff, and contractors to coordinate projects
• Fosters and supports a team culture within the department 
• Collaboratively evaluates the operation, maintenance and performance of wastewater treatment facilities, processes, systems, and equipment
• Reviews, and assists in the supervision and implementation of recommended improvements including analyzing and optimizing existing system designs and operating parameters, supervising performance testing and troubleshooting and resolving complex operational, equipment and instrumentation problems.
• Participates in the construction management of personnel in implementing changes required during facilities upgrades and startup.
• Participate in the compliance of operating policies ensuring compliance to all environmental and safety rules
• Completes reports which documents plant status, equipment, operating data and operational events
• Collect data on unplanned outages and make recommendations to minimize the probability of similar events
• Assists in ensuring  all equipment and processes are well maintained and functioning properly
• Oversee/Perform cleanup and housekeeping tasks for work area, tools, equipment, facilities, and grounds.
• Maintain proper operational and maintenance documents and records
• Operates equipment and processes manually and through instrument control panels.
• Work weekends, holidays, and be on-call on a rotating basis/schedule as needed
• Respond to emergencies, work additional hours to complete required tasks as/and when needed
• Proficient in the operation and use of various hand and power tools
• Carries out other duties as assigned

 Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED required
• Must be 21 years of age or older
• Can clearly articulate complex issues both verbally and in writing to technical and non-technical people
• Decision-making responsibility for all O&M related to the Treatment Plant, equipment, processes and systems
• Management with compliance with NSU policies and procedures
• Certificates, licenses and registrations required: 
  • Valid driver’s license
  • MN Class C Wastewater License
  • MN Class D Water Operators License
  • SSTS Service Provider Certification
• Computer skills required:
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office 
  • Familiar with LogCheck or similar e-work order software 

What We Offer:

• Top-Tier Benefits: We offer comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employer-Paid Basic Life Insurance: Your peace of mind matters, and we provide employer-paid life insurance to protect you and your loved ones.
• Disability Coverage: With both short-term and long-term disability coverage, you can feel secure knowing you're supported during difficult times.
• Tuition Reimbursement: We are committed to helping you enhance your career. NSU offers tuition reimbursement to support your ongoing education and professional development.
• Mentorship: At NSU, you're not alone. Our team includes experienced mentors who have been in the business for years, offering guidance and support every step of the way.
• Motivated Team: Join a team of passionate, driven individuals who are dedicated to making a real impact on the environment and the communities we serve.