Pretreatment Coordinator

General Statement of Duties

Franklin County Public Utilities Department is recruiting for a full time Pretreatment Coordinator. An employee in this class performs a variety of chemical, biological, and microbiological tests designed to produce safe operation of domestic and industrial wastewater treatment. Work includes establishing timetables, troubleshooting process problems, conducting complex laboratory procedures, preparing necessary reports, and maintaining computerized and manual files. Employee may be required to complete and submit reports to the state Department of Water Quality and/or the Federal EPA regarding the performance of Wastewater Treatment Plant. Employees are subject to hazards associated with wastewater and plant operations including working both inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposure to various hazards such as loud noises, moving electrical current, chemicals, fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, poor ventilation, working in small spaces such as sewer pipes, and oils. Work around wastewater is also subject to the final standards of OSHA on blood borne pathogens. Work is performed under regular supervision and reviewed by observation, conference, and the reviewing records for adherence to operations standards, instructions, and safety practices.

Duties and Responsibilities/Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Performs a variety of standardized laboratory tests and analysis of wastewater samples to determine the efficiency of treatment.
• Collects and performs tests on industrial wastewater samples, coordinates test results with plant operations personnel and industry officials.
• Operates a PC to analyze and track test results.
• Prepares solutions and reagents.
• Performs tests to determine pH, total suspended solids, volatile solids, settable solids, fecal Coliform, NH3, Cl2, Conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and other tests.
• Interprets laboratory tests and data, calculates results, and prepares reports.
• Maintains laboratory inventory and orders supplies as necessary.
• Performs quality control procedures on equipment and supplies to ensure reliable test results; maintains laboratory equipment in proper working order; maintains state laboratory certification and all that is involved.
• Consults with, informs, and advises plant personnel about deficiencies found or changes in the treatment process.
• Follows and enforces all applicable safety rules and regulations.
• Collects field data and samples.
• Will be recognized as laboratory supervisor for communication with local, state, and federal agencies.
• Run Fats, Oils, Grease (FOG) Program and maintain data base of inventory, inspections, and issue notices/violations.
• Performs duties of treatment plant operator when needed.
• Position is subject to after hour call back and being on-call.

• Thorough knowledge of modern laboratory techniques, materials, and equipment used in complex chemical and biological analysis of water and wastewater.
• Thorough knowledge of the principals of organic and inorganic chemistry.
• Working knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and permitting requirements.
• Ability to read and interpret technical federal and state guidelines on water and wastewater treatment, and industrial pretreatment program requirements.
• Ability to read and interpret County ordinances and state regulations related to water and wastewater treatment, and industrial pretreatment programs.
• Ability to prepare laboratory reagents and assemble laboratory apparatus for chemical and biological analysis.
• Ability to take water and wastewater samples and perform required analysis.
• Working knowledge of the occupational hazards of the work and of the necessary safety precautions.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in written form.
• Ability to conduct complex laboratory tests.
• Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions.
• Ability to read meters, charts, technical manuals, and drawings accurately and to maintain records of operations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with peers and supervisors.

Desirable Education and Experience

Associate’s degree in chemistry, environmental science, or a related field and considerable experience in analytical chemistry and water or wastewater treatment; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Other Information

• Must possess an appropriate valid North Carolina driver’s license upon hire.
• Must be able to obtain Wastewater Operators Grade II certification from the State of North Carolina, a Class One Laboratory Analyst from the NC AWWA/WEA and a Pretreatment Grade One from the NC Pretreatment Consortium, within eighteen (18) months of employment.

Franklin County offers a competitive benefits package designed to encourage and support your health, well-being and productivity. Benefit options include medical and dental insurance; elective supplemental insurance options such as short-term disability, vision, and voluntary term life; local government retirement; 401(k) with a 4% employer contribution (no employee match required); generous paid leave that includes 13 county-observed paid holidays per year; an employee wellness program inclusive of a county sponsored gym and an employee assistance program.