INTERNAL ONLY: Operations Specialist

The Water & Engineering Technology department is seeking two Operations Specialists. These positions support improvements to the operations of Clean Water Services (CWS) programs, including the four water resource recovery facilities, conveyance infrastructure, stormwater management, and watershed restoration. Conduct research projects to optimize program operations, develop new innovative technologies, verify operational data for purchase or design of new technologies, or reduce the risk of regulatory noncompliance.

Notes:

• The following opportunity is open only to regular, probationary, and temporary employees who are currently employed by Clean Water Services.
• This posting is for 2 vacancies, 1 will be located at the Durham Water Resource Recovery Facility and the other will be located at the Rock Creek Water Resource Recovery Facility.
• Candidates who are selected to move forward in the recruitment process will be invited to self-schedule their interview. Please be sure to check your email for status updates

(The essential functions listed below are not intended to reflect all duties that may be assigned to this classification.  CWS may augment duties and/or essential functions at its discretion.   Additionally, some incumbents may not perform all Essential Functions.)

1. Assists with planning and conducting research projects as assigned.
2. Interacts with CWS personnel related to testing and correlation of research results with ongoing operations.
3. Assists with developing testing protocols and experiments based on the research objective and modifies as needed based on the interpretation of results. Assists with documentation of laboratory research standard operating procedures (SOPs) as they relate to the research function for CWS.
4. Conducts data analysis and statistical interpretations to test research hypotheses.
5. Assists with the preparation of project deliverables, including publications and conference presentations.
6. Manages research laboratory supplies used in the research function, including consumables, inventory, ordering, receiving, and storage.
7. Conducts research projects within required budget and time constraints.
8. Maintains a positive, equitable, and inclusive workplace culture to improve the understanding and recognition of diversity and foster multidisciplinary and integrated team approaches.
9. Drives a CWS or personal vehicle for work-related purposes.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Basic research methods of data collection and analysis 
• Wastewater treatment and industrial pretreatment principles and practices and/or theory and principles of water resource protection 
• Laboratory testing and sampling procedures and appropriate research record keeping 

• Gathering, evaluating, and interpreting data
• Use of computers and computer software for word processing, spreadsheets, and database management
• Technical writing to develop, edit, and compose SOPs, technical reports and journal articles

• Identify, research, and analyze processes and procedures
• Organize and operate testing of equipment, procedures or processes
• Research and identify equipment or materials needed for testing
• Develop alternatives and recommend strategies to improve reliability and cost-effectiveness of technical processes
• Learn appropriate computer applications related to the research being conducted
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including a variety of CWS staff and other government officials, community groups, and the general public
• Operate effectively in a team environment
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES:

The following are the minimum qualifications for this position. 

2 years of experience conducting research or project work related to environmental engineering, chemistry, biology, microbiology, or other related science;

College-level coursework in chemistry, biology, microbiology, quantitative analysis, laboratory methodologies, hydrology, environmental science, environmental engineering, ecology, or related fields. Bachelor of Science or Engineering preferred.

OR

Master of Science in engineering, chemistry, biology, microbiology, or related sciences with a completed graduate research thesis.

Candidates must possess and maintain a valid state-issued driver’s license.  

Reasonable Accommodation
Applicants who require reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any phase of the application process should contact Human Resources at 503.681.3600 or TDD 503.681.3601.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Clean Water Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, national origin, marital status, age, uniformed service, sexual orientation or disability in the admission or access to the recruitment process or any aspect of employment.