WPC Operations Manager

City of Cedar Rapids, IA; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Cedar Rapids is seeking a Water Pollution Control (WPC) Operations Manager to lead daily operations at the Cedar Rapids Wastewater Treatment Plant, ensuring safe, reliable wastewater treatment for the community.

The role oversees plant programs, evaluates operational activities, manages budgets, coordinates with contractors, and ensures safety and compliance across departments. Strong leadership and communication are essential to drive continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Requires Associate's Degree in related fields or combination of education and experience.
• 5-7 years’ experience in Wastewater Treatment and Supervisory experience or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population.

Responsibilities

• Manages the plant and facilities operational programs and processes.
• Plans and prepares operating budget and monitors expenditures.
• Plans and coordinates plant operations with contractors during capital improvement projects.
• Manages the plant supervisory control and data acquisition system.
• Coordinates with Environmental Department for ash landfills, inspections, and reporting.
• Plans and coordinates special projects and operational changes.
• Supervises assigned personnel and conducts performance evaluations.
• Coordinates safety programs (LOTO, Confined Space) and emergency response.
• Oversees operational reliability initiatives and participates in the Reliability Program.
• Manages purchasing specifications, RFPs and services for chemical usage and operations.
• Attends meetings and trainings and presents recommendations.
• Performs related work as required.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Team collaboration

Education

Associate's Degree in Industrial Technology

Associate's Degree in Environmental Sciences

Associate's Degree in Business Administration

Associate's Degree in Public Administration

Associate's Degree in Construction Management

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

The City of Cedar Rapids is looking for a Water Pollution Control (WPC) Operations Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of our Water Pollution Control Plant and help ensure we continue providing safe, reliable, and effective wastewater treatment services to our community.

This is an opportunity for an experienced operations leader who enjoys working with people, solving problems, improving processes, and making sure a complex operation runs safely and efficiently. The Operations Manager will oversee plant operations, evaluate operational programs and activities, and work closely with staff and leadership to identify opportunities for improvement. If you are an experienced operations leader who is ready to make a difference and help lead the future of wastewater treatment in Cedar Rapids.

About our Organization

At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds, and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community

Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city. Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here!

About this Opportunity

Oversees the day-to-day operations of the Cedar Rapids Wastewater Treatment Plant. Manages and evaluates operational programs and activities associated with the plant.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Manages the plant and facilities operational programs and processes
• Plans and prepares operating budget and monitors expenditures
• Plans and coordinates plant operations with contractors during capital improvement projects
• Manages the plant supervisory control and data acquisition system
• Coordinates with the Environmental Department to manage ash landfills, review inspections, and complete associated reporting to ensure landfill compliance
• Plans and coordinates special projects, operational changes, and services
• Supervises the work of assigned personnel, including assigning and reviewing work, providing guidance, and conducting performance evaluations
• Coordinates safety programs, including the LOTO and Confined Space programs, and efficient maintenance of plant/facilities safety and equipment safety training;serves as primary responder to emergency operation
• Oversees operational reliability initiatives and is an active participant in the Reliability Program
• Manages the development of purchasing specifications, requests for proposals and professional service related to chemical usage and operational needs
• Attends meetings, conferences, and training workshop sessions, presents recommendations and plans
• Performs related work as required

Required Education and Experience

• Associate's Degree in Industrial Technology, Environmental Sciences, Business Administration, Public Administration, or Construction Management and
• Five (5) to seven (7) years’ experience in Wastewater Treatment and Supervisory experience or
• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience
• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population

Required Licenses or Certifications

• Grade IV Wastewater Operator’s License issued by the State of Iowa, or the ability to obtain one within 6 months

Work Schedule

• Monday - Friday 6:30am - 3:30pm; Hours could be flexible. Also, may be emergency work hours outside of original hours.