Chief Operator - Wastewater Treatment Plant

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Classified Details

Classified ID
1997
Description

Job Summary:  The Chief Operator provides strategic advice and technical guidance on all WWTP department procedural and policy matters, and works in a collaborative manner to oversee and manage programs, crew efforts and the department.  Serves as a collaborative member of the DPW management team.  Wastewater treatment plant operations are 24/7/365 and, as a result of this operating schedule, the Chief Operator position may also require evening and weekend work, often without advance notice.

Essential Duties:

Wastewater Treatment Facility - 

  • Oversees and operates the wastewater treatment system, including the plant, pump stations and emergency back-up systems
  • Closely monitors the performance of the wastewater treatment plant, analyzes the results of such monitoring and makes adjustments as required to optimize effluent water quality
  • Collects, prepares and ensures that wastewater samples are analyzed as appropriate for regulatory compliance.  May oversee qualified laboratory staff responsible for this process
  • Develops, complies and preserves effluent water quality records and prepares forms and other documents for submittal to regulators as required
  • Oversees the care and maintenance of the wastewater treatment facility equipment, buildings, grounds and emergency facilities to ensure safe, clean and orderly conditions
  • Monitors supplies and chemicals needed for operation of wastewater treatment plant and ensures there is an adequate supply in stock at all times
  • Oversees combined sewer overflow events, maintains corresponding records and submits incident reports to the State of Vermont

Wastewater Collection – 

  • Assigns work directly to Wastewater Collection Forman or staff as necessary
  • Ensures that projects are completed according to approved plans and schedules
  • Ensures that a sufficient supply of parts is maintained for the repair and maintenance of the collection system
  • Responds to resident issues and complaints, providing resolution in a timely manner
  • Ensures that the sewer main and catch basin cleaning program is performed and records are maintained

General –

  • Manages labor resources and approves requests for time off in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) while ensuring the needs of the Department and City are met
  • Effectively addresses employee job performance issues in a timely manner and keeps Senior Leadership advised
  • Assists with the annual budget preparation for the Wastewater Division
  • Develops, implements and maintains safety programs for the Wastewater Treatment and Wastewater Collection Divisions
  • Should be able to exercise sound judgement and discretion when applying and interpreting policies, rules and regulations
  • Must be able to interact well with other members of City staff, City and State officials and the public
  • Maintains regulatory records and reports pertaining to the operation of the treatment plant
  • Attends meetings and trainings to keep abreast of the latest development of trends and innovations in wastewater treatment and distributions; directs the incorporation of new developments into program areas as appropriate
  • Maintains regular and punctual attendance

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Graduation from a two (2) year college program in civil, sanitary or environmental engineering or equivalent experience and education 
  • Current certification as a Grade 5 Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator in the State of Vermont
  • Working knowledge of the State of Vermont Wastewater Operating Permit
  • Laboratory Certification 1 is desirable
  • Seven (7) to ten (10) years of practical experience in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant
  • Must have five (5) experience supervising other staff in a public works or construction-related field
  • Must have a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), Class B and clean driving record 
  • Knowledge of department operations and the interaction of Public Works in relation to other City and State agencies, statutes and regulations
  • High level of knowledge in electrical systems, energy systems, pumps, piping, equipment controls and control wiring systems
  • Must be capable of successfully completing a background check with pre-employment drug test

 

This job description outlines the primary duties and responsibilities of the role, but is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and tasks.  The incumbent may be required to undertake additional responsibilities as needed to support the overall objectives of the City of Rutland Department of Public Works.

Title
Chief Operator - Wastewater Treatment Plant
Salary Range
$42 to $46
Application Deadline
11/19/2025
Location
Rutland, VT
Application URL
https://main.govpilot.com/web/public/d91a8ee1-f2e_Employment-RUTLAND-CITY?uid=44313&ust=VT&pu=1&id=1 

Contact Information

Name
Coyle, Ellen
Phone Number
(802) 774-7811
Email
ecoyle@rutlandcity.org 
Best Method of Contact
EMAIL
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