Christopher DeGaris

The Assistant Superintendent for the Plant Department is a key leadership role within the City of Poplar Bluff's Municipal Utilities. This position supports the Superintendent in managing the operations, maintenance, and administrative functions of the plant facilities, primarily the wastewater treatment systems. The role ensures the efficient production and distribution of utilities, compliance with regulatory standards, and the safety and development of plant personnel. This role also included tasks such as aiding in the creation of yearly budgets, finding and procuring all required materials for projects, and managing on-call personnel. One more task under this position is to oversee and direct water sample collections, results, and records and report them ot the proper channels.

The Superintendent of the Plant Department is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing the operations, maintenance, and strategic planning of the City of Poplar Bluff's municipal utility facilities such as the water plant, wastewater plant, power plant, and maintenance shop. This role ensures the reliable and efficient production and distribution of utilities, compliance with all regulatory standards, and the effective management of departmental resources and personnel. This role was also responsible for overseeing of the maintenance and upkeep of the Municipal utilities buildings and grounds.

The Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and improvement of municipal facilities and surrounding grounds. This role ensures the safety, functionality, and aesthetic appeal of all buildings and grounds under the City of Poplar Bluff Municipal Utilities. The position involves managing a team of maintenance staff, coordinating projects, obtaining supplies, and ensuring compliance with safety and operational standards.

The Maintenance Mechanic/Power Plant Operator is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing equipment and systems within the municipal power plant. As a maintenance mechanic one is responsible for upkeep, repairs and maintenance for all utilities, equipment, buildings, and grounds. Power plant operators were responsible for having the knowledge and abilities to operate duel fuel engines requiring both mechanical and electronic controls. This position ensures the reliable and efficient production of electricity while adhering to safety and regulatory standards. The role requires a combination of technical expertise, mechanical aptitude, and operational knowledge to support the plant’s daily operations and maintenance activities.

The Mechanic in the City of Poplar Bluff Motor Pool is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and servicing a variety of vehicles and equipment in the city’s fleet. This role also requires designing and fabricating various tools and equipment needed for daily use. This position ensures that all municipal vehicles and machinery are safe, reliable, and operating at peak efficiency. The role requires technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to diagnose and resolve mechanical issues effectively.

The Operator for the City of Poplar Bluff Motor Pool and Street Department is responsible for safely and efficiently operating a variety of small and heavy equipment and vehicles to support the maintenance, repair, and improvement of city streets, infrastructure, and public spaces. This position requires technical skill, attention to detail, and a commitment to public service and safety.

The Mechanic, Operator, and Job-Site and Crew Supervisor roles at R.L. Persons Construction Co. are integral to the success of construction projects, ensuring that operations run smoothly, equipment functions reliably, and crews work efficiently. These positions require technical expertise, strong problem-solving skills, and a commitment to safety and quality. Together, they support the company’s mission of delivering high-quality construction services on time and within budget, while fostering teamwork and maintaining compliance with all safety and regulatory standards. These roles also required the operation of small, heavy, and specialty equipment and machinery.