Biosolids Facility Operator

Overview

For doers and makers seeking a well-rounded community, Hickory is a bridge between Asheville and Charlotte at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains along Interstate 40, where a collective spirit of craftsmanship strengthens any endeavor with detail, artistry and quality. Hickory, North Carolina, is a three-time All-America City on the Catawba River, approximately one hour east of Asheville and one hour north of Charlotte.

More than 45,000 residents call Hickory their home, the hub of a 365,000-metropolitan area. Hickory has outstanding school systems, recreation facilities, libraries, golf courses, theaters, art museums, and gorgeous parks. Beautiful Lake Hickory is over 4,000 acres and has many public access areas. Please check out  for a virtual, interactive tour of the area, and  for a web portal all about Hickory and Life.

Qualified applicants are considered for positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetics, or the presence of a non-job related medical condition or disability. U.S. Law requires all applicants to furnish proof of identity and right to work in the U.S. All offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of a post-offer functional prework screen and a drug screen.

This examination process is designed to determine if applicants are able to efficiently perform the essential functions of the job without physical harm to themselves, or others. All applicants are subject to a background check.

This position performs all activities to operate and maintain chemical treatment, mechanical functions, and labor operations of the biosolids treatment process and related facilities. An incumbent in this position may be designated as a Biosolids Operator I, II, or III.

• Monitors and operates biosolids equipment including Belt Filter Presses (BFP), Gravity Belt Thickener Press (GBT), Thermal Belt Dryer, pumps, valves, etc. to ensure efficient treatment of biosolids.
• Ensures chemical feed is optimized to provide the lowest cost per-dry ton achievable while assuring effective treatment.
• Monitors and inventories chemicals and other supplies as needed to ensure continuous operation of the facility.
• Collects samples and interprets data to make effective process adjustments.
• Monitors levels of Sludge Holding Tanks (SHT).
• Maintains a clean and safe work area.
• Performs preventive maintenance (PM) on all equipment per the manufacturers' recommendations. Keeps equipment clean in order to maximize effective life span of equipment.
• Maintains records of operations and assists in the preparation of all required reports, including daily run sheets, monthly spreadsheets.
• Must be able to perform minor maintenance tasks such as conveyor belt alignment, cleaning out pumps, etc.
• Provides feedback and suggestions on facility operations and improvements.
• May be required to assist Wastewater Plant Operations during emergency situations.
• Adheres to departmental, personnel, and safety rules and regulations.
• Assists other departments as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of city and department policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of wastewater treatment plant specifications, equipment, and operating procedures.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations related to the operation of wastewater treatment plants.
• Skill in the operation of computers, calculators, weather instruments, chart recorders and other specialized equipment.
• Skill in collection of wastewater samples and the performance of laboratory tests and analyses.
• Skill in performing mathematical computations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Perform routine assignments with a team.

• Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of NC for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain an appropriate state-certified license for water or wastewater treatment or…