Position Summary:
Provides guidance for biodigester operations and program planning, implementation, and evaluation, and supervises student workers. The Biodigester Program Manager reports to the Director of the Biogas Program. This position supports operations of the UWO Urban Dry Digester and is cross trained in operations for the UWO Allen Farms Digester. The Biodigester Program Manager also supports sustainability and educational initiatives relating to the Biogas Program. This position is primarily responsible for daily operations and monitoring research projects.

UW Oshkosh provides a competitive benefits package for all benefit-eligible positions. Click here for more details.

Responsibilities
• Onsite management of operations and associated projects. (30%)

o Provide onsite management and training of staff and students
o Lead and develop projects to generate revenue.
o Maintain relationships with external partners
o Develops and implements operating policies and procedures to promote the outreach program in alignment with the strategic plan
o Reviews recommendations for and provides input on the design and development of new outreach programs or services
o Determines outreach program needs and the personnel resource allocation plan
o Monitors the biodigester budget and approves program expenditures
o Manages student employees

• Daily operation and maintenance of the biogas plants (35%)

o Perform advanced biogas plant operations related to the biological, chemical and mechanical processes that are required to keep a biogas system functioning 24/7/365
o Independently, monitor and operate various advanced control systems that ensure the biological, chemical and mechanical processes are functioning properly
o Ability to perform scientific calculations and conversations related to feedstock management for proper biogas production (examples would include organic loading rate, hydraulic retention time and biogas yield rates to mention a few)
o Interpret scientific data, run trends, communicate results and implement changes to operations to ensure successful running of a biogas system
o Maintain operations logs, data tracking and report writing
o Assist in scheduling and performing maintenance work including scheduling outside contractors if needed.
o Assist in ordering plant maintenance consumables,
o Follow standard safety procedures to protect yourself, other employees, visiting guests and surrounding environment.

• Research/Teaching and other academic initiatives (25%)

o Run research experiments and operate pilot unit equipment
o Perform demonstration or feasibility projects
o Assist in operation and training of other field related research equipment
o Teach classes and train/supervise students as part of the campus internship program that provides students with class credits
o Assist with student and faculty research projects who utilize the biogas systems
o Supervise, train and teach students who utilize the biogas systems as a living learning lab
o Assist with the teaching of the National Training Program development in collaboration with the American Biogas Council.

• Service to the University (10%)

o University committees (e.g. safety, sustainability, etc.)
o Supervises the implementation of outreach-program-focused strategic planning initiatives and objectives for sustainability and biogas
o Give tours for campus or other community related activities.
o Other duties as assigned.

• After hours support (Extra)

o Responding to after-hour alarms as needed and have ability to independently trouble shoot advanced problems related to biological, chemical or mechanical issues that could arise with a biogas system.
o Logging in for remote operations support requiring advanced knowledge of SCADA system controls for remote monitoring and controlling of biogas systems.

Qualifications
Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in science or sustainability or any bachelor's degree with relevant experience or certifications in a related field. Eight (8) years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a bachelor's degree.
• Ability to supervise and train students and provide effective leadership.
• Ability to collect, process and analyze operational data.
• Experience working with plant control systems or high comfort level working with computers.
• Experience working with data manipulation using spreadsheets and databases
• Ability to comprehend technical journals and manuals.
• Ability to work nights, weekends and holidays as needed.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently complete multiple tasks with minimal supervision.
• Must be able to perform heavy lifting, bending, stooping, sitting, standing, twisting, squatting, reaching and grasping with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Willingness and ability to anticipate, identify, and adapt to change in a fast-paced working environment.
• Knowledge of and ability to maintain all safety standards.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Preferred:
• Basic CHP knowledge, ability to operate and troubleshoot problems.
• Experience with operating heavy machinery, hand tools, power tools, and general maintenance duties.
• Demonstrated ability to consistently perform general maintenance duties effectively and efficiently (e.g. blowers, pumps, CHP, valves, etc.)
• Experience in using and maintaining a variety of air quality and safety devices.
• Scientific background and knowledge of the anaerobic digestion process.
• Experience with operating an anaerobic digester.
• Ability to speak in public to a diverse audience of attendees ranging from school-age children to professionals.
• Ability to perform fieldwork and prior use of scientific monitoring equipment.

To Apply:
Applicants must submit the following documents using the online application: resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references

For questions regarding your application and additional options to apply, contact Human Resources at [email protected] or 920-424-1166.

Application Deadline:
TO ENSURE CONSIDERATION: Applications received by October 16, 2022 are ensured full consideration. Applications received after that date may be given consideration at the discretion of the search committee. Application materials will be evaluated and the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process. Incomplete and/or late application materials may not receive consideration.

If you have questions regarding this recruitment, or if you are not able to complete the application online due to a disability or system problem, please contact the Office of Human Resources.

Legal Notices:
AA/EO Statement
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh (UWO) is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. We strongly encourage women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans to apply. UWO, in compliance with applicable laws and in furtherance of its commitment to fostering an environment that welcomes and embraces diversity, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or protected veteran status.

DEI Statement
Diversity drives innovation, creativity, and progress. At the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, the culture, identities, life experiences, unique abilities, and talents of every individual contribute to the foundation of our success. Creating and maintaining an inclusive and equitable environment is of paramount importance to us. This pursuit prepares all of us to be global citizens who will contribute to the betterment of the world. We are committed to a university culture that provides everyone with the opportunity to thrive.

Reasonable Accommodations
UWO provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who are employees or applicants for employment. Employment opportunities will not be denied because of the need to make reasonable accommodations for a qualified individual with a disability. If you need assistance or accommodation in applying because of a disability, please contact [email protected] or 920-424-1166. This job announcement and other material on this site will be made available in alternate formats upon request to an individual with a disability.

Confidentiality of Applicant Materials
UWO is a State agency and subject to Wisconsin's Open Records Law. UWO will not, however, reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing except as may be required by Wisconsin's Open Records law. In certain circumstances, the identities of "final candidates" and/or the identity of the appointed applicant must be revealed upon request.

CBC & Reference Check Policy
All candidates for employment are subject to a pre-employment screening which includes a criminal background check, work authorization, and verification of education. It will also require you and your references to answer questions regarding sexual violence and sexual harassment.

Work Authorization
The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term.