Durham Public Works Job Opening - Wastewater Division - Chief Operator

POSITION OPENING

WASTEWATER DIVISION – CHIEF OPERATOR

Durham Public Works, located in the beautiful Seacoast region of New Hampshire, is a recognized leader in the Public Works field and operates an award-winning state-of-the-art wastewater treatment facility utilizing the four-stage Bardenpho Process for nitrogen removal. We are seeking a highly qualified team member to join an exceptional team of public works professionals to serve in the role of Wastewater Division Chief Operator. 

Durham Public Works’ Wastewater Division works closely with its partner, the University of New Hampshire, to provide wastewater collection and treatment services to both the Town and the University. The Department is fully integrated and progressive, using modern equipment and facilities to achieve its goals. The Treatment Plant is currently undergoing a $3 million process and equipment upgrade project as part of its detailed Capital Improvement Plan, including reconstruction of its primary and secondary clarifiers, in addition to the aeration tanks.

In this leadership role, you’ll be responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of the Town’s Wastewater Treatment Facility, pump stations, and collection system. You’ll manage a small team of operators, providing direction and oversight as they carry out essential maintenance and process control tasks. This is a unique opportunity for a motivated leader to oversee the daily operations of a vital public service that protects the health of our community and the quality of the Great Bay Estuary.

This full-time position offers excellent medical, dental, life, and disability coverage, paid time off, and eligibility in the State of New Hampshire retirement plan.  Salary range for this position is from $28.73 to $36.43/hour, depending upon qualifications.

The successful candidate will have a minimum of five years of municipal wastewater related experience, including a minimum of one (1) year in a supervisory role, a strong knowledge of all aspects of various mechanical systems, pumps, electrical, computer, laboratory techniques, regulatory reporting, SCADA associated with the treatment process, and the ability to troubleshoot and repair all associated equipment. Applicants will have a New Hampshire Class B CDL license with a clean driving record or the ability to obtain within one year of hire, and the ability to hold or obtain a tanker endorsement. Possession of a New Hampshire Grade III Wastewater Operator license at a minimum is required. Applicants will be required to be on a rotational standby and required to work rotational weekends once per month. This position requires emergency response on a 24/7 basis and performing work in adverse weather conditions.

Applications and a more detailed job description are available at the Durham Public Works main office.

Please send resume and cover letter to Durham Public Works, Attn: Shannon Shaw, Assistant to the Public Works Director, 100 Stone Quarry Drive, Durham, NH 03824 or by email to sshaw@ci.durham.nh.us by 3:30 PM on August 15th, 2025.