Operations Supervisor (Recycling Operations)

Job Description:

Operations Supervisor (Recycling Operations)

Description

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Irvine Ranch Water District is currently accepting applications for an Operations Supervisor (Recycling Operations) in the Recycling Operations Department.

The District:
Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency, with an international reputation for its leading-edge financial management practices, water recycling program, water use efficiency practices, water banking, urban runoff treatment, and energy generation and storage. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code, IRWD is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at the District's website: www.IRWD.com.

IRWD Values

Irvine Ranch Water District believes that its values drive the character, culture, and capacity of our organization. IRWD was built on values, and we weave them into the fabric of everything we do. Values are the ingredients in our recipe for both institutional and individual success. They are a code of conduct to promote positive outcomes for others and ourselves. They are more than words on a wall or a website. We live by them every day. We pledge to keep them relevant in an ever-changing world.

IRWD's employees enjoy working in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where they form strong bonds with fellow employees. To ensure effective communication and promote a collaborative team environment, employees report to work each day in the office or in the field, depending on their positions.

The Position

Under general direction from the Operations Manager or Chief Plant Operator, plan, coordinate and direct all operations and maintenance activities at assigned plants and facilities, including the water recycling, biosolids processing, sewage collection system facilities and equipment to ensure compliance with all federal and state environmental requirements. Monitor treatment process operation and performance, provide technical guidance to subordinate operators, make adjustments to treatment processes and equipment in order to consistently and cost effectively meet state and federal effluent discharge and air quality requirements.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the full supervisory-level class in the Operator series that exercises judgment on diverse and specialized functions with significant accountability and ongoing decision-making responsibilities for an assigned shift at a wastewater treatment plant. Incumbents are responsible for planning, organizing, supervising, reviewing, and evaluating the work of wastewater treatment plant operations staff either directly or through Operator leads. Incumbents provide technical support to the Operations Manager in a variety of areas. Performance of the work requires the use of independence, initiative, and discretion within established guidelines and scope of practice.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Evaluates the performance of assigned plant operations personnel; establish performance requirements and personal development targets for assigned personnel; regularly monitor performance and provides feedback for performance improvement and development; with management approval, take disciplinary action to address performance and deficiencies in accordance with the District's personnel rules, policies and labor contract provisions.

Supervises plant operation to ensure compliance with federal, state and local requirements and to maintain processes at an optimal and cost-effective level.

Participates in the selection, training, and motivation of plant operations personnel.

Provides day-to-day supervision, leadership, and work with assigned staff to ensure the proper, safe and efficient operation of state-of-the-art water recycling plant processes.

Trouble-shoots variations in operating conditions, reports findings to Operations Manager or Chief Plant Operator and makes recommendations to address changes in order to prevent a process imbalance or upset. Communicate all facts essential to the efficient operation of the recycling plant and report all operating problems or emergencies immediately to the Operations Manager or Chief Plant Operator. Analyze technical and operational issues and problems, evaluate alternatives and reach sound conclusions and recommendations for action and improvement.

Analyzes disposal processes, evaluate alternative approaches, project consequences of proposed actions and adopt effective solutions in support of goals.

Reads and interprets technical illustrations, blueprints, maps, plans, specifications, wiring and pneumatic diagrams. Provide technical assistance and advice to assigned plant operations personnel.

Inspects treatment plant and facilities equipment to ensure its proper functioning, minimize interruptions in the treatment/operation process, and to alleviate costly repairs; makes adjustments to operating equipment; report the need for major or specialized repairs to equipment, machinery and electrical and electronic systems; assist specialized trades personnel in making major and/or highly technical repairs to equipment, machinery and systems; ensure the timely completion of preventive maintenance activities on plant equipment, machinery and systems.

Monitors systems; control valves for emergency and scheduled shut down; troubleshoot diagnoses and report problems to appropriate personnel; responds to emergencies such as pipeline breakages, unauthorized discharges, chemical leaks, and equipment failure; schedules and coordinate responses, repair and clean up.

Responsible for ensuring treatment plant and other facilities operates in an effective and cost-efficient manner, including the tracking and optimization of unit production costs and the development, implementation, and continued assessment of key performance indicators.

Supervises and manages Operator's work schedule, including training, shift rotation, on-call, vacation, sick leave coverage while minimizing overtime.

May be required to work varying shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, on-call duty and respond to call backs and may be required to work alone on weekends and holidays.

Responsible for ensuring that treatment plant unit processes, buildings and grounds are maintained in a clean and orderly manner.

Responsible for ensuring operational supplies such as chemicals, polymers, tools, equipment, office supplies orders are received by the warehouse. Receive chemical shipment; monitor unloading process and record into inventory; test shipments for compliance to standards; check chemical alarms and feed systems for leaks.

Responsible for carrying out the District's safety program at the treatment plant and/or assigned facilities; ensure subordinates follow safety practices in work methods and LOTO procedures; enforce proper safety procedures while working in dangerous situations; educate and train employees on rules, regulations, codes, safe work habits and potential hazards presented by their work environment. Schedule and conduct safety tailgates in compliance with District's safety program.

Prepares and maintains a variety of records, including incident reports, maintenance requests, round sheets, daily operation reports, operation spreadsheets, odor control surveys, construction plan and specifications, as-built drawings, etc.

Operates sewage collection system lift stations, treatment equipment, machinery, and facilities by using manual, electronic and computer control systems to regulate and control processes. Read, analyze, and report on data collected from gauges, meters, charts and graphs, and operates pumps, valves, electric motors and related equipment.

Collects samples for quality control tests and assists laboratory personnel in the analysis of samples using laboratory test equipment; conduct laboratory and field tests as needed.

Coordinates, assists in conducting research studies and/or tests with internal departments and outside agencies. Ensure these studies and/or tests are done safely, economically, completely, while maintaining full compliance with current local, state, and federal rules and regulations.

Develops, implements, maintains, and updates standard operating procedures, and other manuals.

Reviews engineering plans and specifications for construction projects; attend design and construction meetings and contribute comments and recommendations on projects as assigned.

Responsible for taking the lead on coordinating with construction management, maintenance, technical support and other departments on project commissioning and decommissioning, including shutdowns, tie-ins, startups, and troubleshooting new systems.

Develops, implements, and tracks the assigned department's annual budget.

May fill in for Operation Manager or Chief Plant Operator in that person's absence.

Communicates effectively and interface frequently with other departments and occasionally with regulatory agencies. Conduct or assist with preparation of plant tours.

Prepares reports summarizing treatment plant operational activities, including process performance and efficiency, equipment operation, work performed, and materials used. Provide feedback on work performed. Assist in the preparation of a weekly and monthly report detailing unit process efficiencies, flows and cost of operation.

Provides highly responsible and complex administrative support to the Operations Manager using MS Office Suite and database software to produce tables, graphs, and reports.

Responds to emergency situations during off-hours as required. Participate in Emergency Standby Program at the sole discretion of the District.

Comply with District safety work-related practices and attend relevant safety training.

OTHER DUTIES: (Non-Essential Job Functions)
May attend and participate in professional groups; stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of water recycling operations and associated activities.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Education:

• Equivalent to high school graduation required.
• A Bachelor's degree in engineering, sanitary engineering, environmental engineering, environmental sciences, public administration, or related field of study is desired.

Experience:

• Three (3) years of advanced experience in the operations of a Class IV or V water recycling plant (depending on the assigned plant) including biological nutrient removal (BNR) activated sludge treatment, tertiary treatment, and biosolids processing. At least two (2) years of experience performing lead or supervisory duties is required.

LICENSE / CERTIFICATIONS REQUIRED

A valid Class 'C' California Driver's License.

Class ‘A’ California Driver’s License desirable.

Valid Grade III Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board.

Possession of a Grade IV or V Certificate issued by the California State Water Resources Control Board is highly desirable.

Related Collections System Maintenance, Water Treatment, and/or Water Distribution Certifications are desirable.

Knowledge of:

• Treatment plant safety regulations, budgeting, records management, SCADA systems, pumps, valves, electronic motors, diesel and electrical engines, and principles, methods, practices, and techniques utilized in chemical, bacteriological and biological analysis required.

• Basic principles and processes of water treatment and distribution and wastewater collection and treatment.
• Principles and procedures of record keeping, report writing, and preparation of correspondence.
• Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.
• District and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service, by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and District staff.
• The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and programs, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.

Ability to:

• Make accurate advanced mathematical and statistical computations.
• Establish and maintain a variety of filing, record keeping, and tracking systems.
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, documentation, and other written materials.
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and judgment within general policy and procedural guidelines.
• Organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

When working in the field, must possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform medium to heavy physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; frequently reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, grasp, and make repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties; to climb and descend ladders; to operate various equipment and tools; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various District sites; and vision to locate utilities and read printed materials. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas and to working in confined spaces. Must be certified annually to wear respiratory equipment. Must be clean-shaven such that facial hair does not interfere with the fit of a tight-fitting respirator. Finger dexterity is needed to operate and repair tools and equipment. Employees must possess the ability to carry, push, pull, and lift materials and objects weighing 50 pounds and up to 90 pounds with the use of proper equipment. All of this in various weather conditions (hot, cold, rainy) and environments, often exposed to wet muddy conditions.

When working in an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

Employees work in the field and are exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road/traffic hazards, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, hazardous physical substances and fumes, dust, and air contaminants. Employees also work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances.

IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS
All applicants are required to complete and submit a District application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the District online application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page.

New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide

Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department and the subject matter expert. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:

Oral Interview Examination : will assess candidates’ experiences, qualifications, and abilities that are crucial for success in this role. During this examination, candidates will have the opportunity to discuss their background, including education, training, and relevant professional experiences. This in-person interview will allow evaluators to assess the candidate’s interpersonal communication skills and evaluate their overall qualification for the position.

Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Irvine Ranch Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department for a reasonable accommodation.

IRWD offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These benefits include the following: retirement benefits; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; and a variety of other benefits. Benefits may vary based on employment status. This benefits overview is intended to be a summary, is not intended to be all-inclusive, and may not be applicable to all employees.

Retirement
Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013:
The District, in compliance with the California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2012 (PEPRA), implemented a third tier for new employees hired on or after January 1, 2013. New employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have not been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system within 6 months of hire date will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at a 2 percent at age 62 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefits of 2.5 percent at age 67. Final compensation calculations will be based on the highest three-year average of regular recurring pay. The District pays the employer's share of these costs. The employee share of the pension cost of 7.50% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula.

Employees hired on or after September 29, 2012 or "Classic" PERS members hired on or after January 1, 2013:
On September 24, 2012, the IRWD Board of Directors approved the addition of a second tier to the CalPERS retirement benefits. New employees hired on or after September 29th through December 31, 2012, and employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system, will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at 2 percent at age 60 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefit of 2.418% at age 63. The District pays the employer share of these costs and the employee share of the pension cost of 7% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula. Final retirement compensation calculations are based on the highest three-year average of regular, recurring pay.

IRWD does not participate or pay into Social Security except for the Medicare portion.

Medical Insurance
IRWD contracts with CalPERS for medical insurance coverage. Employees may elect coverage from a variety of PPO and HMO plans. The employee and District contribution for health insurance varies by plan. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Dental Insurance
IRWD contracts with Delta Dental for dental coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for dental coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Vision Insurance
IRWD contracts with the EyeMed for vision coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for vision coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Life Insurance
Eligible employees are provided with life insurance coverage equal to three or four times their annual salary, depending on their level of compensation. Eligible dependents are also covered for a flat benefit amount. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

Deferred Compensation
Participation in a deferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. Enrollment is voluntary and contributions are employee-paid and subject to IRS limits. The District matches employee contributions up to 3% of base pay after 1 year of employment.

Paid Vacation
Eligible employees begin accruing vacation benefits at the rate of 80 hours per year for the first 5 years of employment. Employees accrue 120 hours per year after 5 years of employment and 160 hours per year after 10 years of employment.

Paid Holidays
The District offers 10 scheduled paid holidays plus two (2) personal holiday per year.

Sick Leave
Eligible employees accrue 96 hours of sick leave annually.

Flexible Spending Accounts
Eligible employees may elect to participate in the District's Flex Advantage program. This program allows employees to deposit pre-tax dollars into special accounts to be used for a variety of purposes, including paying for qualified miscellaneous health care expenses and dependent care expenses. IRWD contracts with a third party administer to process payments from employee accounts using claim forms or a Flex Spending debit card.

Educational Assistance
The District will share in the pre-approved educational costs of tuition and books for employees who wish to attend college or take certification classes.

Closing Date/Time: 3/31/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$9,777.73 - $14,138.80 Monthly