Operator

Job Description

Position Purpose:

The WWTF Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining wastewater treatment processes and equipment to ensure the facility operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable environmental regulations and permit requirements. This position performs routine inspections, collects samples, maintains operational records, responds to alarms and process changes, and assists with preventative maintenance and facility upkeep.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities:

• Operate and monitor wastewater treatment systems, including pumps, valves, screens, grit removal equipment, clarifiers, aeration systems, disinfection systems, sludge processing equipment, and related controls.
• Inspect equipment and treatment processes to identify abnormal conditions, leaks, blockages, odors, or mechanical issues.
• Collect wastewater, process, and effluent samples according to established procedures.
• Perform routine laboratory tests, such as pH, dissolved oxygen, chlorine residual, turbidity, settleability, and other required process-control analyses.
• Adjust treatment processes and equipment settings to maintain effective plant performance and permit compliance.
• Record operating data, meter readings, laboratory results, maintenance activities, chemical usage, and process adjustments accurately and promptly.
• Respond to alarms, spills, equipment failures, and other operating emergencies.
• Operate vehicles and mobile equipment, such as forklifts, loaders, pumps, and maintenance tools, as authorized.
• Perform routine preventative maintenance, cleaning, lubrication, and minor repairs on plant equipment.
• Assist maintenance personnel and contractors with inspections, repairs, and construction activities.
• Handle, store, and use treatment chemicals in accordance with safety procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain clean, orderly, and safe work areas throughout the treatment facility.
• Follow all company policies, safety procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, and environmental regulations.
• Participate in emergency response, standby, on-call, weekend, and holiday coverage as assigned.
• Attend required training and maintain all necessary certifications and continuing-education requirements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Work Environment:

• Ability to work outdoors and in unpleasant environmental conditions, including heat, cold, noise, odors, wet areas, and confined spaces.
• Work is performed in and around a wastewater treatment facility, including buildings, tanks, laboratories, pump stations, and outdoor areas.
• Employees may be exposed to wastewater, chemicals, biological hazards, moving equipment, high noise levels, extreme temperatures, and slippery surfaces.
• Strict adherence to safety procedures and personal protective equipment requirements is mandatory.

Qualifications

Education/Experience/Background:

• High School Diploma/GED is required.
• Previous experience in wastewater treatment, water treatment, industrial utilities, manufacturing, or mechanical operations.
• Experience with SCADA systems, computerized maintenance management systems, or industrial control systems.
• Experience operating pumps, blowers, centrifuges, belt presses, chemical-feed systems, or similar equipment.
• Basic mechanical, electrical, plumbing, or instrumentation experience.
• Previous experience working in a regulated industrial or municipal environment.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Ability to obtain and maintain the appropriate wastewater operator certification within [specified period], if required by state or local regulations.
• Basic knowledge of wastewater treatment processes, mechanical equipment, laboratory testing, and environmental compliance.
• Ability to read and interpret operating instructions, safety procedures, gauges, meters, and technical manuals.
• Basic computer skills, including the ability to enter data and maintain electronic or written records.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in response to changing plant conditions.
• Knowledge of wastewater treatment principles and process control.
• Ability to identify equipment problems and take appropriate corrective action.
• Strong attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping skills.
• Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to prioritize work and respond calmly during emergencies.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training:

• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• State-certified wastewater treatment operator license, such as [Class/Grade].

Physical Requirements:

• Stand, walk, bend, stoop, climb ladders and stairs, and work in awkward positions.
• Lift and carry up to pounds.
• Operate hand tools, power tools, and mobile equipment.
• Work at heights and in confined spaces when properly trained and authorized.
• Wear respiratory protection, chemical-resistant clothing, fall protection, and other required personal protective equipment.
• Distinguish colors and read gauges, meters, labels, and computer screens.

Additional Information

Benefits: Veolia’s comprehensive benefits package includes paid time off policies, as well as health, dental, vision, life insurance, savings accounts, tuition reimbursement, paid volunteering and more. In addition, employees are also entitled to participate in an employer sponsored 401(k) plan, to save for retirement.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer! All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.