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4.5 Recruitment for a Utility Operator Request for City Council Action DEPARTMENT INFORMATION ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT REQUESTOR: MEETING DATE: Utilities Utility Manager Neidermeier January 23, 2023 PRESENTER(s) REVIEWED BY: ITEM #: Consent Assistant City Administrator/Human Resources Hille City Administrator/Finance Director Flaherty 4.5 – Recruitment for Utility Operator STRATEGIC VISION MEETS: THE CITY OF OTSEGO: Is a strong organization that is committed to leading the community through innovative communication. Has proactively expanded infrastructure to responsibly provide core services. Is committed to delivery of quality emergency service responsive to community needs and expectations in a cost-effective manner. X Is a social community with diverse housing, service options, and employment opportunities. Is a distinctive, connected community known for its beauty and natural surroundings. AGENDA ITEM DETAILS RECOMMENDATION: City staff recommends City Council authorize recruitment for a Utility Operator position. ARE YOU SEEKING APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT? IS A PUBLIC HEARING REQUIRED? No No BACKGROUND/JUSTIFICATION: The 2023 Utility Budget includes a full-time Utility Operator staff addition supporting the department and community needs. Timing is appropriate as Class A EQ Biosolids production is occurring, the West WWTF liquid capacity expansion and process modifications to membrane filtration are being implemented with new NPDES permit requirements and staff is self-performing solids transport from increased processing. This new hire would be cross trained in all aspects and responsibilities of the department. The proposed recruitment schedule: • 1/23/2023 - City Council Authorization • 4/17/2023 - Role Posted • 5/5/2023 - Application Deadline • 5/8/2023 to 5/11/2023 - Interviews • 5/22/2023 - Council Approval • June 2023 - Start Date The position fits the framework of goal operations specialization detailed within the Otsego Water and Wastewater Utility Staffing Projection technical memorandum: June 2, 2021 by AE2S. The Public Works subcommittee was presented with this information at their January 18, 2023, meeting and concurred that it be placed on the consent agenda for City Council consideration. SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS ATTACHED: • Job Description – Utility Operator POSSIBLE MOTION PLEASE WORD MOTION AS YOU WOULD LIKE IT TO APPEAR IN THE MINUTES: Motion to authorize City staff to initiate recruitment for a Utility Operator position. BUDGET INFORMATION FUNDING: BUDGETED: Fund 601 – Water Utility (25%) Fund 602 – Sanitary Sewer Utility (75%) Yes Position Description Position: Utility Operator FLSA Status: Non-exempt Pay Grade: Class D Pay Grade 6; Class C Pay Grade 7; Class B Pay Grade 8 Approved: April 27, 2020 DESCRIPTION OF WORK General Statement of Duties: Under direction of the Utility Manager and/or Foreperson is responsible for operating and maintaining wastewater and water facilities, collection and distribution systems. Weekend rotation and on call rotation are required. Immediate Supervisor: Utility Manager Supervises: None Provides Work Direction to: None MAJOR JOB FUNCTIONS 1. Water System: a. Monitor, operate and maintain water treatment facilities b. Monitor, operate and maintain water distribution equipment and components c. Follow federal, state and Local requirements, licenses, guidelines, and policies d. Conduct water quality sampling and testing to meet drinking water standards e. Documents, completes and communicates regulatory reports 2. Wastewater System: a. Monitor, operate and maintain wastewater treatment facilities b. Monitor, operate and maintain wastewater collection system equipment and components c. Follow federal, state and local requirements, licenses, guidelines and policies d. Conducts process testing to ensure efficient function of process e. Documents, completes and communicates regulatory reports 3. Other Duties and Responsibilities: a. Assist public works with snow plowing as needed b. Assist public works and park crews with street, storm water, and park maintenance as needed c. Communicate with engineer, contractors and vendors for assistance and suggestions d. Responsible for following all policies and procedures at the federal, state, and local level through all applicable agencies 4. General a. Treat fellow employees with respect and integrity b. Promote a positive and motivating environment c. Provide exceptional customer service d. Confer with supervisor, peers, and employees to discuss and resolve issues e. Make decisions that are always in the best interest of the City f. Perform other duties and projects as assigned g. Follow all safety policies and procedures h. Follow all City policies and procedures KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES • Knowledge of and experience in operating water and wastewater utilities including water distribution and wastewater collection systems • Knowledge of biosolids application requirements and methods • Knowledge of and experience in City operations, ordinances, and practices related to water and wastewater applications • Experience in use of heavy equipment such as lift truck, jet-vac, and generators • Knowledge of SCADA, Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) and standard computer systems and programs used in operation of water and wastewater facilities • Experience and applied knowledge in laboratory tests, testing methods and techniques, testing requirements, and interpretation of test results • Experience analyzing problems, identifying solutions, and implementing solution successfully • Ability to communicate clearly, professionally, effectively, and precisely both verbally and in writing • Ability to resolve and diffuse conflicts • Ability to understand, manage, and communicate complex ideas, projects, and situations • Ability to work independently and as part of a team • Strong sense of honesty, integrity, and credibility MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Minnesota Class D Wastewater Certification 2. Minnesota Class D Water Certification 3. A valid Class B driver’s license or ability to obtain within six months 4. 30-minute response time to the wastewater treatment facility PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 1. Associates degree in water and environmental technologies or a Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or environmental services 2. Class B Wastewater License. 5. Class C Water License. 3. Type IV Biosolids License 4. Experience working for a growing city PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS The physical requirements checked on the attached sheet are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Note: This job description does not constitute a contract or employment agreement.