Biosolids Facility Operator

Hickory, North Carolina, is a vibrant community located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains along Interstate 40. It offers a high quality of life with excellent schools, recreation, and cultural amenities.

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 upon successful completion of a post‑offer functional pre‑work screen, a drug screen, and a background check.

• Monitors and operates biosolids equipment, including Belt Filter Presses (BFP), Gravity Belt Thickener Press (GBT), Thermal Belt Dryer, pumps, and valves to ensure efficient treatment.
• Optimizes chemical feed to achieve the lowest cost per dry ton while maintaining effective treatment.
• Monitors and inventories chemicals and other supplies to keep the facility running continuously.
• 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 on all equipment according to manufacturer recommendations, keeping equipment clean to maximize lifespan.
• Maintains records of operations and assists in preparing daily run sheets and monthly spreadsheets.
• Performs minor maintenance tasks such as conveyor belt alignment and pump cleaning.
• Provides feedback and suggestions on facility operations and improvements.
• May 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.
• Applies knowledge of city policies, wastewater plant specifications, equipment, and operating procedures.
• Familiar with federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, and regulations related to wastewater treatment plants.
• Uses computers, calculators, weather instruments, chart recorders, and other specialized equipment.
• Collects wastewater samples and performs laboratory tests and analyses.
• Performs mathematical computations.
• Communicates orally and in writing.
• Works routinely with a team.

• Ability to read, write, and perform mathematical calculations at a high school level or equivalent.
• Possession of or ability to 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 obtain an appropriate state‑certified license for water or wastewater treatment or distribution.

PLEASE NOTE: Applicants must meet the City criteria for an acceptable driving record.

Employees frequently stand, walk, use hands, and lift, push, pull, or move objects that may weigh more than 100 pounds. The job requires the ability to perform repetitive tasks, climb ladders, and work in various weather conditions. Employees must pass a functional pre‑work screen administered by an impartial third party.

Position identified as safety‑sensitive. Employee is part of a random drug‑testing pool. Testing methodology is administered by an outside vendor.

Senior Biosolids Facility Operator assigns work. Supervisor spot‑checks completed work for compliance with procedures and accuracy.

Guidelines include federal, state, and local regulations, plant SOPs, and supervisory instructions which may require interpretation in application.

Work involves technical duties in operating beneficial reuse facilities. Changing sludge characteristics and inclement weather add complexity.

Purpose is to operate a wastewater biosolids drying facility, ensuring effective and efficient operation to meet treatment goals.

Contacts typically include co‑workers, city employees, vendors, state and federal agency personnel, and the general public.

Contacts are for information exchange, problem resolution, and service provision.

Work performed in office and wastewater treatment plant facilities. Exposure to noise, machinery, chemicals, and infectious diseases. Work may be outdoors and in cold or inclement weather; requires protective devices.

None.