INTERNAL ONLY - Operations Analyst 2 - Research (Process Engineering)

The Research and Innovation program is seeking an Operations Analyst 2 - Research (Process Engineering). This position performs professional research and operational improvement work related to Clean Water Services (CWS) wastewater treatment facilities. Conducts projects to optimize program operations, including developing, implementing, and evaluating innovative technologies, verifying operational data to support process design and equipment selection, and assessing methods to reduce regulatory compliance risks. Identifies research needs, develops project plans, and manages project execution.

(The essential functions listed below are not intended to reflect all duties that may be assigned to this classification.  CWS may augment duties and/or essential functions at its discretion. Additionally, some incumbents may not perform all Essential Functions.)

1. Develops, plans, and conducts research projects evaluating treatment design and operational performance at bench, pilot, and field scale. 
2. Assists in developing scopes and budgets for research projects.  Manages research and laboratory projects and contracts within the required budget and time constraints.
3. Collaborates with CWS staff to coordinate testing activities and align research findings with ongoing system operations.
4. Develops and implements new analytical methods and instrumentation to support data collection needs. Develops standard operating procedures (SOPs) and trains staff in their application.
5. Performs data analysis and statistical interpretation to test research hypotheses.
6. Organizes and coordinates laboratory research spaces across multiple CWS facilities, ensuring efficient use of resources. 
7. Writes technical reports and prepares presentations summarizing research findings for internal teams and external stakeholders.
8. Prepares and presents analytical findings to internal teams and external stakeholders to support planning and execution of capital improvement projects.
9. Drives a CWS or personal vehicle for work related purposes.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Advanced research methods of data collection and analysis
• Advanced wastewater treatment
• Fundamentals of environmental engineering and science
• Data management, analysis, and visualization
• Laboratory method development, testing, and sampling procedures
• Research record keeping
• Principles and practices of project management
• Pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, administrative rules, and regulations

• Gathering, evaluating, and interpreting data
• Sample collection within a wastewater treatment facility
• Designing and carrying out research experiments
• Applying project management principles 
• Use of computers and computer software for word processing, spreadsheets, and database management
• Technical writing to develop, edit, and compose SOPs, technical reports, and journal articles
• Presentation of technical information to a variety of audiences, including stakeholders, conference attendees, and the public

• Develop new and modify existing analytical methods and procedures
• Identify, research, and analyze processes and procedures
• Develop, organize, and operate testing of analytical and sampling equipment
• Research and identify equipment or materials needed for testing 
• Develop alternatives and recommend strategies to improve the reliability and cost-effectiveness of technical processes
• Coordinate and manage projects to completion within scheduled deadlines and allocated budgets
• Learn relevant computer applications related to the research being conducted
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work including a variety of CWS staff and other government officials, community groups, and the general public
• Operate effectively in a team environment
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, CERTFICATIONS AND/OR LICENCES

The following are the minimum qualifications for this position. 

3 years of experience conducting projects related to wastewater treatment in environmental engineering or sciences;

Bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering, engineering, science, or a related field.

A Doctor of Philosophy or Master of Science degree in environmental engineering, engineering, or science, with an emphasis on water or wastewater, or a related field, is preferred.

Candidates must possess and maintain a valid state-issued driver’s license.  

Reasonable Accommodation:

Applicants who require reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any phase of the application process should contact Human Resources at 503.681.3600 or TDD 503.681.3601.
 
Equal Employment Opportunity: