Superintendent - Wastewater Treatment Plant

The Municipality of Bethel Park is seeking a pioneering Superintendent to join our team and lead the charge in innovative techniques at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in wastewater operations, proven leadership skills, and a passion for advancing sustainable practices within the wastewater treatment industry. Applications will be accepted through June 30, 2025.

The Bethel Park Wastewater Treatment Plant plays a crucial role in maintaining the environmental health of the surrounding community. Daily operations at the plant are comprehensive and multifaceted, involving advanced technology, certified skilled personnel, and a commitment to sustainability. The plant plays a vital role in protecting public health and preserving the environment for future generations. The 17-acre site is designed to handle a flow of 4.92 million gallons per day.

SUMMARY

The Superintendent performs difficult technical and administrative work overseeing the operation, maintenance and repair of the wastewater treatment plant, pump station and related facilities.  Work is performed under the general supervision of the Municipal Manager. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan, direct, schedule, and supervise the operation of the wastewater treatment plant
• Schedule, assign and supervise all personnel engaged in the operation and maintenance of the wastewater treatment plant, pump stations, sludge operations and laboratory operations
• Make regular and irregular inspections of equipment and facilities; supervise operations, safety, and maintenance
• Develop and enforce plant safety, procedures and regulations, and ensure employees are trained
• Maintain employee training records to comply with state safety programs
• Analyze plant and laboratory records; log and direct the adjustment of processing methods to improve plant efficiency
• Ensure the treatment of wastewater meets all NPDES and EPA requirements
• Plan and oversee plant maintenance; work with vendors to obtain parts and supplies; oversee and coordinate preventive maintenance and repair schedule
• Develop and recommend short- and long-range plans for the improvement of treatment facilities and systems
• Prepare daily, monthly, and annual reports on plant operations for submission to stakeholders and regulatory agencies
• Prepare the plant budget annually, monitor monthly expenditures, and implement cost-control strategies
• Evaluate employee performance and conduct reviews
• Work with Municipal Authority members and engineers on all aspects of the plant and pump station
• Stay updated on new developments in materials, equipment, processes, and regulations
• Works with consulting engineers and contractors on projects
• Performs other assigned tasks as required

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Thorough knowledge of the theory and processes of modern wastewater treatment, the machines, equipment, materials used in such treatment, and industry developments
• Thorough knowledge of the chemical and physical processes involved in sludge treatment
• Thorough knowledge of the electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic engineering principles involved in plant operation
• Ability to detect flaws in the operation of mechanical equipment and to determine proper remedial actions
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, stakeholders, regulatory agency officials, and the general public
• Ability to work any day or time including wet weather events, emergency callouts, holidays and weekends as needed

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma
• Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry or environmental science with additional technical training in wastewater collection systems is preferred
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in wastewater treatment
• Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience
• Possession of an appropriate driver’s license valid in the State of Pennsylvania
• Possession of a Class A or B Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator’s Certificate issued by the State of Pennsylvania
• Strong computer skills including MS Office and SCADA systems
• Trickling filter experience preferred

PRE-EMPLOYMENT BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION

Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a thorough investigation consisting of employment and compensation verification, criminal history check, certification check, motor vehicle report, credit check, and education verification.

DRUG TESTING

Employment is contingent upon the results of a post-offer (initial employment) drug screen.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and smell. The employee must lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. 

CONDITIONS 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts, high and precarious places, fumes or airborne particles, outside weather conditions, and confined spaces. The employee is exposed to wet or humid conditions and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment can vary from moderate to loud.

BENEFITS

The Municipality of Bethel Park offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of its employees including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
• Defined Pension Plan
• Life Insurance, STD, LTD, AD&D
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellness Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Fitness Club Membership
• Community Center Membership