Enhancing Competitiveness of an Operations Staff: Five Years Experience with a BNR Wastewater Treatment Facility J.W. Hubbard1, R.C. Kirkpatrick1, T.A. DeBusk2 1. Reedy Creek Energy Services, Inc.; 2. Azurea, Inc. Abstract During the period 1993-1998, the Reedy Creek Energy Services (RCES) WWTP supervisory and operational staff reduced operating costs of a biological nutrient removal facility by 22%. These dramatic cost reductions were catalyzed by incorporating novel technologies and approaches, specifically the use of an expert bioprocess consultant and the deployment of innovative monitoring instrumentation. Operational staff enhancements followed, with a marked improvement in process skills achieved by many of the operators. The careful process control exercised by the WWTP staff has led to the successful operation of the bioreactor at hydraulic loading double those of the original plant design, which in turn has resulted in significant operational cost savings. Our experience suggests that a comprehensive strategy that incorporates technical and organizational enhancements can dramatically reduce wastewater utility operating costs.