Chief of Operations & Maintenance/Wastewater

JOB CODE: 1052

PAY GRADE: 2330

SALARY RANGE: $73,836 - $123,392

LOCATION OF WORK
Department of Environmental Services

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Under the direction of the Environmental Services Director, performs responsible administrative and professional engineering work as a licensed professional engineer assisting in directing Department of Environmental Services' activities. Work involves directing, managing, supervising, and coordinating the management and operations of the East Baton Rouge Sewerage Commission (EBROSCO), which includes all functions related to wastewater treatment plants, wastewater collection, storage and conveyance, pumping and lift stations, laboratory services, and maintenance and shop management. Responsibilities also include financial stewardship of City-Parish funds and representation of the department in a variety of public forums (e.g. Metro Council meetings). Work requires exceptional teamwork and the use of independent judgment within established policy guidelines. Employee may be on 24-hour call for emergency situations. Performs other work as requested.

ESSENTIAL WORK TASKS
Actively participates in the senior leadership team of Environmental Services to enhance operational efficiency, continually improve client services, and build the capability of the staff through workforce development programs. In this role, consults closely with the Environmental Services Director and fellow senior leadership team members. Directs, manages, supervises, and coordinates the management and operations of the East Baton Rouge Sewerage Commission (EBROSCO), which includes all functions related to wastewater treatment plants, wastewater collection, storage and conveyance, pumping and lift stations, laboratory services, and maintenance and shop management. Operates and maintains treatment plants, storage, and conveyance systems to be in full compliance with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements, including wet weather flow management, Sanitary Sewer Overflow (SSO) abatement and reporting, and any other treatment plant and conveyance system compliance related reporting. Monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures; plans, develops, and implements methods and procedures designed to improve operations and maintenance to minimize operating costs and promote the most efficient use of labor and material. Plans, directs, supervises, coordinates, and reviews the work plans of direct reporting managers and support staff; assigns responsibility for work activities, projects, and programs; meets with staff to identify and resolve problems. Manages and supervises the central control staff and system; makes high-level decisions during critical operating periods and approves normal operating parameters. Manages and oversees laboratory operations and related testing and monitoring services; reviews and signs reports as responsible operator. Negotiates operations and maintenance related contracts and coordinates with consultants and contractors regarding major projects and activities. Develops and administers operations and maintenance contracts related to wastewater plants, collection systems, supervisory and data acquisition systems (SCADA), and pumping stations. Assists with the development and administration of the EBROSCO annual operating budget, including the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies. Assist in the development of policies and procedures for response to routine storm events, hurricanes, flooding, and other crisis events. Appears in a variety of public settings to represent Environmental Services, including Metro Council meetings, public hearings, public outreach programs, and before various boards and courts to testify in appeals and other legal actions. Participates in providing customer service to internal and external customers by responding to and resolving escalated sensitive inquiries and complaints that relate to the treatment plants and conveyance systems, including odor complaints, sewer backups, and sanitary sewer overflows. Stays abreast of new trends and innovations in wastewater operations and management.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of the principles and practices of wastewater treatment and conveyance systems. Knowledge of the modern developments, current literature, and sources of information regarding professional engineering. Knowledge of the modern developments, current literature, and sources of information regarding professional engineering. Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, policies, and procedures, especially as related to EBROSCO. Knowledge of the Clean Water Act, especially NPDES permits. Knowledge of design, implementation, and operation of supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. Knowledge of policies and procedures of the department. Knowledge of the principles of supervision and training. Knowledge in providing effective performance feedback and conducting performance appraisals. Skill in the use of a light motor vehicle. Ability to oversee and manage the operations and maintenance of a comprehensive wastewater treatment and conveyance system. Ability to analyze complex operational and administrative problems, evaluate alternatives, and recommend or implement effective courses of action. Ability to collaboratively develop and implement goals, objectives, policies, procedures, work standards, and management controls. Ability to organize, supervise, and coordinate the work of subordinate personnel performing varied wastewater functions. Ability to negotiate agreements and contracts. Ability to prepare and administer operations and maintenance program budgets. Ability to oversee the maintenance of accurate operational record keeping systems. Ability to research, analyze, and evaluate new service technology methods and techniques. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Ability to prepare clear and concise records, reports, correspondence, and other written materials. Ability to make decisions recognizing established precedents and practices, and to use resourcefulness and tact in meeting new problems. Ability to exercise independent judgment and initiative within general policy guidelines. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, superiors, architects, contractors, and other interested parties. Ability to apply good work habits such as punctuality, reliability, preciseness, and dependability in order to effectively complete assigned tasks and contribute to the smooth operation of the department and division.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS