Hybrid Division Manager - Water-Treatment presso Clinton, City of (SC), SC

About the Department

Internal Applicants Only

Employees of the City of Clinton and applicants for employment shall be afforded equal opportunity in all aspects of employment without regard to race, color, religion, political affiliation, national origin, disability, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, or age.

Reasonable accommodations may be available to employees or applicants of this position under the ADA/ADAA if given prior notice by the employee or applicant.

The information contained within this document has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work to be performed by an employee within this classification.  It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or work required of employees assigned to this position.

Position Duties

Purpose of Position

The Water Treatment Division Manager is responsible for directing and overseeing the daily operations of the City’s Water Treatment Plant to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant production of potable water for the community. This position provides leadership in personnel management, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and system operations, while also performing technical and administrative duties to support plant operations. The Division Manager ensures the division operates within established standards of safety, quality, and environmental stewardship.

Essential Job Functions

• Directs, supervises, and coordinates the activities of staff in the Water Treatment Division, including scheduling, training, performance evaluations, and discipline.
• Oversees the operation, inspection, and maintenance of water treatment plant equipment, pumping stations, laboratory testing, and chemical feed systems to ensure regulatory compliance and efficient plant performance.
• Ensures water quality standards are met by monitoring water flow, performing chemical adjustments, backwashing filters, calibrating feed systems, and reviewing laboratory results.
• Coordinates and verifies water sampling, testing, reporting, and compliance with SCDHEC, EPA, and other applicable regulatory agencies.
• Manages division budgets, identifies resource needs, and participates in purchasing equipment, materials, and supplies.
• Develops, implements, and monitors operational policies and procedures to ensure efficiency, safety, and compliance with federal, state, and local laws.
• Responds to emergency situations, including system malfunctions, water quality issues, weather events, and chemical spills; serves as subject to call-back.
• Maintains accurate records and prepares required regulatory and operational reports.
• Ensures proper storage, handling, and use of chemicals and maintains inventory levels.
• Promotes and enforces safety procedures, hazard communication, and compliance with OSHA and risk management standards.
• Acts as liaison with city leadership, regulatory agencies, contractors, and the public regarding water treatment issues.
• Stays current on water treatment methods, technology, and regulatory updates by attending training, seminars, and conferences.
• Assumes responsibility of the Water Treatment Plant in emergencies and represents the City in professional and community settings.
• Serves as Acting Public Works Director as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED from an accredited institution recognized by the South Carolina Department of Education; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Chemistry, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive operational experience in water filtration operations, including at least two (2) years of supervisory or management experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Must possess and maintain a valid South Carolina driver’s license.
• Must possess and maintain a Class A Water Treatment Operator Certification as required by SCDHEC (may be hired with Class B certification if Class A is attained within a timeframe determined by City policy and DHEC regulations)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations related to water treatment operations.
• Water chemistry, treatment processes, and laboratory analysis methods.
• Occupational hazards and safety practices related to water treatment facilities.
• Principles of budgeting, procurement, and financial management.
• Supervisory principles, personnel management, and training practices.

Skilled in:

• Planning, coordinating, and prioritizing daily and long-term division operations.
• Problem-solving and decision-making under pressure.
• Preparing and interpreting technical and regulatory reports.
• Communicating effectively with staff, leadership, regulators, and the public.
• Using computers, SCADA systems, lab equipment, and mechanical tools.

Ability to:

• Lead, supervise, and motivate staff in a complex technical environment.
• Monitor plant performance, diagnose issues, and implement corrective action.
• Apply analytical and mathematical concepts in plant operations.
• Work independently while ensuring regulatory compliance and safety.
• Respond calmly and effectively in emergencies.
• Maintain professional relationships with employees, officials, and the public.

Physical Demands

• Frequently required to stand, walk, bend, climb stairs/ladders, and lift/move objects up to 50 lbs.
• Work involves exposure to chemicals, machinery, noise, weather conditions, and confined spaces.
• Must be capable of wearing respiratory protection and passing annual medical evaluations.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in a combination of office, laboratory, and industrial plant settings.
• Exposure to hazardous chemicals, loud noise, high-pressure equipment, and varying weather conditions.
• Position is designated as safety-sensitive and subject to ongoing random drug testing.
• Subject to emergency call-back and irregular hours as operational needs dictate.

Supervision Received & Exercised

• Reports to the Public Works Director.
• Exercises direct supervision over Water Plant Operators, Trainees, and support personnel.
• Acts as the Division Manager’s designee in his/her absence and assists with department-wide leadership initiatives.