Wastewater

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of the Wastewater Plants?

Eastside: 26.0 mgd

Westside: 6.2 mgd

Where are the Wastewater Plants located?

Eastside:  Guilford County in Jamestown

Westside:  Davidson County in Thomasville

How long has the Wastewater Plants been in operation?

Eastside:  Since the late 1920's.  The current Plant has been in operation since April 2004, after the most recent upgrade.

Westside:  Since 1930.

What type of treatment processes are designed into the Plant?

Eastside:  BNR (Biological Nutrient Removal).

Westside: Class IV Activated Sludge process.

What is the population served?

Eastside:  approx. 70,000

Westside:  25,000-30,000

How many people do the Plants employ?

The Plants Superintendent oversees both Plants.

Eastside:  13 total - 8 shift Operators, 4 relief Operators, 1 Chief Operator. 

Westside:  12 total - 8 shift Operators, 2 relief Operators, 1 Chief Operator.

What do you do with the Residual Solids?

Thickened sludge (residual solids) is dewatered using a centrifuge.  The resulting "cake" is transported to the Eastside WWTP where it is incinerated.  The resulting ash is used in creating topsoil and as a additive in brick manufacturing.

What are the requirements for being a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator?

A minimum of a High School diploma or GED, possession of a valid driver's license, and the ability to obtain a Grade II (North Carolina) State Wastewater Operator's certification within two years of employment.  Additional requirements and a job description can be found on the City's website.

What hours do the Shift Operators work?

Shift Operators currently work a 12-hour shift: 7am-7pm (day) or 7pm- 7am (night).  Operators work five days on and two days off rotating from nights to days or days to nights every 28 days.  This type of shift means the operators are on duty 14 days per month.

What is the average number of years of experience for the Wastewater Operators?

Eastside:  Approx. 9 years

Westside:  Approx. 18 years.  Currently only two operators have less than 10 years experience.

What future treatment processes will be required at the Wastewater plants to meet future NPDES permit limits?

Eastside:  Eastside is currently in compliance with the latest NPDES permit limits and no current need or plans to upgrade the current processes.

Westside:  BNR (Biological Nutrient Removal).  This will require upgrading the current Activated Sludge system, i.e., construction of additional aeration basins, installation of additional air supply blowers, renovation of the current air diffusing system, and construction of an additional Secondary Clarifier.