Wastewater Treatment Chief Operator

Company Description The City of Lebanon, located in the heart of rapidly growing Wilson County, is a historic Tennessee community founded in 1801 and serving as the county seat. Just north of I-40 and minutes from Nashville, Lebanon offers the amenities of a larger metropolitan area while maintaining a welcoming small-city atmosphere for its approximately 40,000 residents. As part of the Nashville Metropolitan Statistical Area, Lebanon benefits from strong regional economic and cultural connections, including proximity to Cumberland University and Cracker Barrel Headquarters. The city is served by the Music City Star Railway, providing convenient rail access to downtown Nashville. Lebanon’s recently renovated historic downtown square and ongoing growth and development create a dynamic environment for public service careers.
Role Description The Wastewater Treatment Chief Operator is a full-time, on-site role based in Lebanon, TN, responsible for overseeing daily operations of the municipal wastewater treatment facilities. This role manages plant processes, monitors equipment performance, and ensures compliance with state and federal environmental regulations and permits. The Chief Operator schedules, supervises, and trains operations staff; coordinates maintenance activities; and responds to operational issues, alarms, and emergencies to protect public health and the environment. Daily tasks include reviewing laboratory results and process data, adjusting chemical dosages and system settings, maintaining accurate operational records, and preparing reports for internal and regulatory stakeholders. The position also supports safety programs, participates in inspections and audits, and collaborates with city leadership on capital improvements and operational enhancements.
Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in wastewater treatment plant operations, including process control, equipment monitoring, and regulatory compliance.
• Experience supervising operations staff, providing training, scheduling work, and promoting a culture of safety and accountability.
• Ability to interpret laboratory data, process metrics, and technical documentation to make informed operational decisions.
• Strong skills in recordkeeping, report preparation, and use of computer systems and SCADA or similar monitoring tools.
• Knowledge of relevant state and federal environmental regulations, permits, and best practices in municipal wastewater management.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments and interact with the public and regulators in a professional manner.
• Capacity to perform physical tasks associated with plant operations, including working in varying weather conditions and responding to after-hours emergencies as needed.
• Preferred qualifications may include state wastewater operator certification, prior experience as a senior or chief operator, and coursework or a degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field.