Columbia County is one of Florida’s best-kept secrets, with pockets of quiet and peaceful springs. Columbia County is the home of Florida’s Springlands, with multiple natural springs, lakes, rivers, and nine beautiful state parks. In 2022, the US Census Bureau QuickFacts estimated Columbia County has a population of 72,000 residents. Columbia County is a southeast sports destination and hosts multiple tournaments and camps. Columbia County requires a diverse and dedicated workforce to provide services for Columbia County residents to live and work and for the visitors who experience our piece of the Florida playground. Consider applying for a position with us today. 

JOB DESCRIPTION

This is advanced technical and supervisory work operating water or wastewater treatment facilities in accordance with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) rules and regulations, Florida Administrative Code, and the facility operating permit. Supervises Water Treatment or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operations, which includes: monitoring, maintenance and repair of pumps, motors, treatment systems, generators and related support systems; lift stations and switch gear; flow meters and chemical feed systems and overhead cranes; as well as collection and processing of a variety of samples.

Training and Experience

High school graduate or equivalent and eight (8) years of experience in the operation or maintenance of a water or wastewater utility system of which three (3) years must have been in a supervisory capacity; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that would reasonably be expected to provide the ability and experience to perform the essential functions.

Professional Licenses/mandatory requirements

Possession of a valid Florida driver's license required. Columbia County residency required within six months of date of employment.

SALARY: Negotiable plus benefits

DEADLINE FOR RECEIVING APPLICATIONS: 3/04/2025

Each applicant is required to submit a complete County Application for Employment. Applications are available on-line www.columbiacountyfla.com/Jobs.asp . Successful applicant must be able to pass a pre-employment medical exam, physical agilities, criminal history background check, driver’s license check and drug screening. Applications can be emailed to: hr@columbiacountyfla.com or by mail, FedEx, or UPS to:

HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE

COLUMBIA COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

POST OFFICE BOX 1529

LAKE CITY, FLORIDA 32056-1529

(386) 758-3351; TDD (386) 758-2139

An AA/EEO/ADA/VP Employer

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

·       Knowledge of all applicable safety principals

·       Knowledge of the plant operational permit, able to assure compliance with all related Federal, State and Local rules and regulations including County policies related to supervisory duties

·       Knowledge of the capabilities and limitations of electronic computers, and the integrated role those perform in wastewater treatment and reclaimed water distribution

·       Knowledge of and ability to perform all required physical, biological, and chemical tests for process control and related mathematics

·       Ability to work independently, take initiative in identifying issues, and complete necessary tasks

·       Ability to analyze written material and use critical thinking skills to synthesize information

·       Ability to listen, attending carefully to others in order to understand what they are saying

·       Ability to incorporate classroom and on the job training into work performance

·       Ability to maintain a professional presence and adhere to ethical standards

·       Ability to demonstrate strong team skills, artful negotiation, and cooperative information sharing

·       Ability to plan/schedule appropriate priorities, be flexible, and recommend changes

·       Ability to communicate and keep all shifts and personnel informed about processes and problems

·       Ability to apply computer applications, and software including to produce reports, identify efficiencies, and other meaningful performance metrics

·       Ability to monitor, evaluate, troubleshoot, and adjust the treatment process

Essential Functions

·       Plans, assigns and reviews the efforts of assigned, subordinate personnel

·       Works to prepare and submit all compliance reports required by the permit (DMRJMOR, Annual Reuse Report, SWFWMD Public Supply Annual Report, Water Monitoring)

·       Coordinates with operators, maintenance personnel, engineers and contractors during any event that improves or impacts the water treatment plant (WTP), water distribution system, wastewater treatment plant (VMTP), associated pump stations, collections system (re: infiltration inflow or industrial pretreatment issues), and the reclaimed water (RCW) distribution system

·       Coordinates with maintenance personnel and various utility representatives to resolve operational issues within WTPWWTP, water distribution, pump station, or RCW distribution systems

·       Secures leaks from hazardous materials such as chlorine gas and sulfur dioxide gas

·       Reports to FDEP or State Warning Point during conditions when the plant is operating outside permitted conditions (upset) or during any sort of release

·       Performs all supervisory responsibilities; training, evaluations, discipline, etc.

·       Provides performance metrics and quality control on operational data

·       Provides ongoing input regarding operational priorities to the County Manager for capital improvement projects and maintenance activities

·       Responds to requests for information and complaints from the public in order to resolve complaints or provide information

·       Provides customer service and promotes positive public relations

·       Ensures that adequate amounts and types of equipment, materials and chemicals are available for safe and efficient systems operations

·       Required to work during a local declared state of emergency

Non -Essential Functions

Performs related work as required.

[These essential job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of all duties performed. Employees will be required to perform other job related marginal duties as required.]

Work Environment

Work is typically performed in a dynamic environment that requires sensitivity to changing goals, priorities, and needs. When outdoors, exposure to a variety of extreme weather conditions while supervising operations or performing various tasks. Subject to hazardous conditions and noxious chemicals.

Essential Physical Skills/Demands

Acceptable eyesight and hearing (with or without correction) to perform essential functions. Requires reaching, pulling, pushing, walking, standing, kneeling, and stooping. Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.

NOTE: The physical demands described above are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodations.