Utility Operator in Charge en Dewees Island Property Owners

About Dewees Island

Dewees Island is a private barrier island located north of Charleston, SC. The island is accessible only by passenger ferry and has no bridge or public infrastructure. All transportation on the island is by electric golf cart. Dewees is a residential community committed to environmental stewardship, with operations designed to support sustainability and minimal impact on the natural surroundings.

About the Utility System

Dewees Island operates an independent water and wastewater utility with no connection to external infrastructure. Potable water is sourced from on-island groundwater wells, treated using reverse osmosis to meet DHEC standards, and distributed through a pressurized underground network. Wastewater is collected through individual grinder pumps and conveyed via sealed underground piping to a central biological treatment facility for permitted discharge. The utility currently serves over 70 developed sites.

Position Summary

The Operator in Charge oversees all water and wastewater operations for Dewees Island and is responsible for system performance, regulatory compliance, and maintenance. This is a high-responsibility role requiring autonomy, technical skill, and accountability. The operator is expected to manage daily operations, ensure regulatory compliance, maintain systems, and respond to issues without direct supervision.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain potable water and wastewater treatment systems
• Monitor system performance and respond to alarms
• Perform required testing and maintain DHEC compliance records
• Coordinate preventative maintenance and equipment servicing
• Manage chemical dosing and inventory
• Identify and troubleshoot mechanical or process issues
• Communicate with regulatory agencies and contractors when needed
• Ensure reliability in a limited-access, ferry-dependent environment

Required Qualifications

• "B" level Biological Wastewater Treatment Operator License
• "B" level Water Treatment Operator License
• "C" level Water Distribution License
• Experience with water and sewer systems operations and maintenance
• Knowledge of regulatory procedures and environmental guidelines
• Strong management skills and ability to coordinate multiple projects
• Ability to maintain records, report findings, and follow directions effectively
• Bachelor's degree in relevant field and at least 7 years of related experience
• Valid driver�s license

Schedule

Full-time position. Includes occasional nights, weekends, on-call shifts, and overtime as needed for maintenance or emergencies.

Work Environment

This is a hands-on, outdoor role that requires physical work in varying weather conditions. Exposure to mechanical systems, wildlife, and remote communications is routine. Operator must be available for standby response and emergency situations.

Location Requirement

Must live within commuting distance or be willing to relocate prior to start.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary range: $100,000 - $125,000, depending on experience and qualifications

• Health insurance
• IRA with employer match
• Paid time off and holidays

Work Culture

We are a small, professional, and accountable team. Everyone plays a critical role in keeping the island running. The right person for this role is self-motivated, dependable, confident making decisions, and comfortable being the go-to operator in a unique, remote setting.