Operations Division Manager Plants

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to oversee the operation and maintenance of one of the District’s major wastewater treatment plants (peak 350 MGD) or four large plants (combined peak 115 MGD). This critical role ensures regulatory compliance, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship across high-capacity facilities that serve the region.

What you will do

As the Operations Division Manager Plants, you will lead and manage daily plant operations with a focus on performance, safety, compliance, and strategic improvement. You will be responsible for ensuring all treatment processes operate efficiently and meet or exceed environmental standards.

Essential Functions:

- Oversee all operational and maintenance activities for one major or four large wastewater treatment plants.

- Provide strategic leadership, including planning, organizing, staffing, and directing daily plant functions.

- Ensure full compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations and discharge permits.

- Lead and motivate plant personnel to meet goals aligned with the District’s strategic business plan.

- Evaluate and improve employee performance through effective coaching, mentoring, and training.

- Develop and manage the annual budget for plant operations; monitor expenditures and optimize resource allocation.

- Promote a culture of safety and ensure strict adherence to the District’s Health & Safety policies.

- Recommend and implement policy, procedure, and process improvements to enhance plant efficiency and regulatory compliance.

- Collaborate with Engineering on capital improvement projects to upgrade facilities and equipment.

- Supervise the adjustment of treatment processes to ensure optimal performance and effluent quality.

- Monitor utility usage, reduce consumption, and manage associated costs.

- Ensure proper execution of preventive and corrective maintenance in alignment with the District’s Asset Management Program.

- Represent the District in meetings with public agencies, civic groups, contractors, consultants, and community members.

Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, customer service, compliance, employee engagement, and diversity.

Additional Responsibilities:

Carry out additional duties as assigned by management to support the goals of the department and District.

Physical Demands

- Stationary Position - Constantly

- Move/Traverse - Constantly

- Stationary Position/Seated - Rarely

- Transport/Lifting - Occasionally

- Transport/Carrying - Occasionally

- Exerting Force/Pushing - Occasionally

- Exerting Force/Pulling - Occasionally

- Ascend/Descend - Occasionally

- Balancing - Occasionally

- Position Self/Stooping - Frequently

- Position Self/Kneeling - Frequently

- Position Self/Crouching - Frequently

- Position Self/Crawling - Occasionally

- Reaching - Occasionally

- Handling - Constantly

- Grasping - Constantly

- Feeling - Constantly

- Communicate/Talking - Constantly

- Communicate/Hearing - Constantly

- Repetitive Motions - Frequently

- Coordination - Frequently

QUALIFICATIONS: Training & Experience:

- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field from an accredited institution.

- Minimum of six (6) years of experience in the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment facility.

At least two (2) years of supervisory or management experience

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

- Professional Engineering license preferred.

- Deep understanding of wastewater treatment processes, equipment, and regulatory compliance.

- Proven leadership in managing multi-disciplinary teams in a high-demand environment.

- Strong budget management, project planning, and performance tracking skills.

- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal abilities.

Commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and public service.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

Must possess a valid driver's license issued by the state in which the employee resides.

Pursuant to MSD's "Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures," this position has been designated as safety sensitive and candidate must pass a Non-D.O.T. Drug Test for this position. Employees occupying this position are not subject to Federal (D.O.T.) Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations.

All current employees must have a 'Meets Expectations' or 'Proficient' rating on their most recent performance evaluation to be eligible.

ABOUT US: The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District provides comprehensive wastewater and storm water management services to residents and businesses in both St. Louis City and County. As one of the most recognized employers in the region and a fixture in the downtown area, MSD employs over 900 individuals in a wide-range of roles including skilled crafts and laborers, engineering, information technology, finance, human resources and administration support. We invite you to be part of the team!