The Operations Director is a technical supervisor responsible for skilled, technical, administrative, project management, and supervisory duties associated with the planning, operation, maintenance, monitoring, repair, and capital improvement of the OJRSA wastewater system. This position oversees and coordinates operational projects, infrastructure improvements, regulatory compliance initiatives, and strategic planning efforts to ensure the efficient and reliable delivery of wastewater services. Additionally, this person plays a key role in managing capital projects. The role works under limited supervision and guidance of the Executive Director.
Location: Seneca, SC
Reports to: Executive Director
To view the full position profile, please visit OJRSA Operations Director Profile.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Department Leadership & Oversight
- Directly supervises the Operations, Laboratory, Maintenance, and Collection System departments.
- Ensures personnel and equipment operate efficiently in meeting operational, maintenance, monitoring, permit compliance, repair, and installation needs for treatment plants, pump stations, and sewer transport systems.
- Serves as the Operator of Record for the Authority.
Operational Management
- Determine work procedures, prepare schedules, issue instructions, and document activities.
- Assign duties and evaluate work for accuracy, neatness, and adherence to policies.
- Study and evaluate department procedures and recommend improvements to the Executive Director.
- Maintain harmony among workers and provide technical training and supervision.
- Oversee safety procedures and ensure compliance with safety requirements.
Regulatory Compliance & Environmental Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and enforce all regulatory requirements applicable to Operations, Laboratory, and Maintenance, including environmental and safety regulations.
- Coordinate and assist with all regulatory permit renewals (environmental, safety, others).
- Maintain required records and documentation supporting compliance.
System Capacity, Maintenance, & Optimization
- Collaborate with designated staff on CMOM (Capacity, Maintenance, Operation, and Management) program implementation to reduce inflow and infiltration (I&I).
- Through department personnel, ensure maintenance and repair of pumps, motors, drive shafts, and other equipment.
- Oversee repairs and replacement of sewer force mains and gravity sewers as necessary.
- Monitor preventive maintenance programs with Operations and Maintenance staff.
- Review production and maintenance reports to plan and adjust operational activities.
- Plan and implement methods and procedures to improve efficiency, minimize costs, and enhance labor/material utilization.
Project & Equipment Coordination
- Manage capital projects, including assisting with developing and implementing the capital budget.
- Determine equipment needs and coordinate with the Executive Director.
- Review job orders to determine priorities and schedule repairs, maintenance, and installations.
- Coordinate fabrication or improvement of equipment, machines, or tools.
- Ensure buildings, grounds, and facilities remain clean, orderly, and organized.
- Prepare reports on work progress, manpower utilization, time records, and material disposition.
Training, Communication, & Public Interaction
- Direct the training of workers to improve performance and ensure understanding of policies and procedures.
- Interact with the public occasionally through phone inquiries, site tours, and public events.
- Confer with management to resolve operational issues and recommend improvements.
- Attend meetings, workshops, and training to enhance job knowledge.
Work Schedule & Emergency Response
- May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays, and during inclement weather.
- Serve on?call 24 hours a day as scheduled; respond to emergencies as necessary.
- Physically report to work sites to perform duties that cannot be done remotely. “Work site” includes any location directed by OJRSA outside the employee’s residence.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, public health, civil engineering, public administration, business administration, or closely related field.
Certifications and Licenses
- Valid South Carolina Driver’s License.
- Biological Wastewater Operator Level “A” license (SC LLR) (must be maintained in good standing) OR Level “B” license with the expectation of passing the A examination within six months of hire.
- Licenses equivalent to the SC LLR Biological Wastewater Operator Level “A” and/or Level “B” certifications from other states may be considered.
- Required workshops and training to maintain current knowledge.
- Additional training/certifications may be required by management
Experience
- Seven (7) years of experience in management, construction, repair, operation, and maintenance of wastewater systems, including operation of related maintenance equipment.
- Minimum of five (5) years supervisory experience.
