This position performs all activities to operate and maintain chemical treatment, mechanical functions, and labor operations of the biosolids treatment process and related facilities. An incumbent in this position may be designated as a Biosolids Operator I, II, or III.
• Monitors and operates biosolids equipment including Belt Filter Presses (BFP), Gravity Belt Thickener Press (GBT), Thermal Belt Dryer, pumps, valves, etc. to ensure efficient treatment of biosolids.
• Ensures chemical feed is optimized to provide the lowest cost per-dry ton achievable while assuring effective treatment.
• Monitors and inventories chemicals and other supplies as needed to ensure continuous operation of the facility.
• Collects samples and interprets data to make effective process adjustments.
• Monitors levels of Sludge Holding Tanks (SHT).
• Maintains a clean and safe work area.
• Performs preventive maintenance (PM) on all equipment per the manufacturers' recommendations. Keeps equipment clean in order to maximize effective life span of equipment.
• Maintains records of operations and assists in the preparation of all required reports, including daily run sheets, monthly spreadsheets.
• Must be able to perform minor maintenance tasks such as conveyor belt alignment, cleaning out pumps, etc.
• Provides feedback and suggestions on facility operations and improvements.
• May be required to assist Wastewater Plant Operations during emergency situations.
• Adheres to departmental, personnel, and safety rules and regulations.
• Assists other departments as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

•Knowledge of city and department policies and procedures.
•Knowledge of wastewater treatment plant specifications, equipment, and operating procedures.
•Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations related to the operation of wastewater treatment plants.
•Skill in the operation of computers, calculators, weather instruments, chart recorders and other specialized equipment.
•Skill in collection of wastewater samples and the performance of laboratory tests and analyses.
•Skill in performing mathematical computations.
•Skill in oral and written communication.
•Perform routine assignments with a team
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
• Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent.
•Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of NC for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
•Possession of or ability to readily obtain an appropriate state-certified license for water or wastewater treatment or distribution as appropriate.

PLEASE NOTE: Applicants must meet the City criteria for an acceptable driving record.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee in this position to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently/repeatedly required to stand; walk; use hands and exert forces needed to handle various types and sizes of tools, equipment and objects; reach with hands and arms and perform elevated work for periods of time; climb ladders and balance; climb into vehicles and equipment; stoop; kneel; half-kneel; squat; crouch; or crawl; and talk; or hear. The employee is occasionally required to sit. The employee must frequently lift, push, pull and/or move more than 100 pounds. An employee in this position will have successfully passed a "Functional Prework Screen" administered by a professional and impartial third party specialist.

SAFETY SENSITIVE: This position has been identified as safety-sensitive. The employee in this position will be part of a random drug testing pool. The methodology for choosing the random test subjects is handled by an outside, impartial, third party vendor.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS: The Senior Biosolids Facility Operator assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with procedures, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES: Guidelines include federal, state and local regulations, plant standard operating procedures, and supervisory instructions. These guidelines are generally clear and specific, but may require some interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY: The work consists of related technical duties in the operation of beneficial reuse facilities. Frequently changing sludge characteristics and inclement weather contribute to the complexity of the position.

SCOPE AND EFFECT: The purpose of this position is to operate a wastewater biosolids drying facility. Successful performance ensures the effective and efficient operation of treatment facilities.

PERSONAL CONTACTS: Contacts are typically with co-workers, other city employees, vendors, state and federal agency personnel, and the general public.

PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work is typically performed while intermittently sitting, standing, walking, bending, crouching, or stooping. The employee frequently lifts light and occasionally heavy objects, climbs ladders, and must be able to distinguish between shades of color.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work is typically performed in an office and at wastewater treatment plant facilities. The employee is exposed to noise, machinery with moving parts, contagious or infectious disease and irritating chemicals. The work may be performed outdoors and occasionally in cold or inclement weather and requires the use of protective devices.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY: None.