Water Resources Superintendent
POSITION SUMMARY
Under the general direction of the City Manager, the Water Resources Superintendent plans, directs, supervises, and participates in the operation and maintenance of the City’s wastewater treatment facilities. This position is responsible for daily operations, regulatory compliance, staff supervision and development, treatment process control, preventive maintenance, budgeting, capital planning, and continuity of operations. The Superintendent coordinates with City departments, engineers, regulatory agencies, contractors, and regional partners regarding wastewater infrastructure and future utility needs.
Annual salary range: $78,000–$98,000, depending on experience and the type and level of applicable licenses and certifications.
Employees qualified and assigned to oversee the City’s water operations may receive additional compensation commensurate with their qualifications and assigned responsibilities.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Directs and participates in the operation and maintenance of the wastewater treatment plant and related facilities.
• Coordinates lift station and collection system needs with Public Works and other City staff.
• Supervises assigned operators and laboratory staff, including scheduling, assigning work, evaluating performance, and supporting employee training and advancement in operator certification.
• Monitors treatment performance, laboratory results, and operating data and directs necessary process adjustments.
• Oversees sampling, laboratory quality control, equipment calibration, and maintenance of accurate operating records. WWTP Superintendent Posting
• Ensures compliance with the City’s NPDES permit and applicable EGLE, EPA, and other regulatory requirements.
• Prepares and submits required regulatory reports and coordinates inspections and corrective actions.
• Administers the industrial pretreatment program and coordinates sludge and biosolids management.
• Plans preventive maintenance and repairs for pumps, motors, controls, chemical feed systems, and other equipment.
• Maintains asset records and coordinates contractors, supplies, repairs, and equipment purchases.
• Prepares and administers the operating budget and recommends capital improvements, equipment replacements, funding priorities, and system improvements.
• Promotes safe work practices, coordinates emergency response, and communicates operational issues and recommendations to City administration, staff, regulators, and the public.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
• High school diploma or equivalent supplemented by training in wastewater treatment.
• Progressively responsible wastewater operations experience, including experience making process decisions, troubleshooting equipment, maintaining regulatory compliance, and directing the work of others.
• Working knowledge of wastewater treatment processes, laboratory procedures, industrial pretreatment, mechanical systems, and applicable environmental and workplace safety requirements.
• Ability to prepare budgets and reports, maintain accurate records, use applicable operating and office software, and communicate effectively with employees, contractors, residents, and regulatory agencies.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel between City facilities and respond to operational needs outside normal working hours.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
• College coursework or a degree in water resources, environmental science, chemistry, biology, or a related field.
• Previous supervisory or lead operator experience.
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
A current Michigan Class B Municipal Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification or higher is preferred. The City may consider a candidate holding a Michigan Class C certification who meets applicable eligibility requirements and is able to obtain Class B certification within twelve (12) months of hire. Until Class B certification is obtained, duties will be assigned consistent with the employee’s certification and legal authority.
ADDITIONAL WATER OPERATIONS RESPONSIBILITIES
A qualified employee may also be assigned oversight responsibilities for the City’s water treatment, storage, distribution, regulatory reporting, maintenance, and assigned personnel. Assignment of these responsibilities will be based upon the employee’s applicable drinking water certifications, experience, qualifications, and the operational needs of the City.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND AVAILABILITY
Work is performed in treatment plant, laboratory, office, and field environments and may include exposure to wastewater, chemicals, moving equipment, noise, and outdoor conditions. Duties may require walking on uneven surfaces, climbing stairs and ladders, bending, handling tools and equipment, and using required personal protective equipment.
The position requires availability for emergencies and occasional evening, weekend, and holiday work as operational needs require. The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation