Wastewater Treatment Operator

WASTEWATER TREATMENT OPERATOR

JOB SUMMARY 

The Wastewater Treatment Operator position is an entry-level role within the Water Resources Group of Technical Services. This role requires adaptability to operational changes, troubleshooting process controls, and strong written communication skills. As the Operator I will provide field support, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain accurate data and reports. Additionally, this position will serve as the Certified Operator in Responsible Charge, overseeing facility operations and collaborating with clients and state officials. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS 

• Ensure all projects are completed safely and in compliance with regulations
• Perform water and wastewater system sampling, along with providing field support for various water resource activities such as troubleshooting system issues, assisting with monitoring well installations, and conducting site inspections
• Conduct system inspections and operate wastewater systems to ensure proper functionality and compliance
• Train onsite personnel on proper operation of wastewater systems
• Prepare accurate reports, certify data, and submit them ahead of deadlines
• Maintain precise data entry and management across spreadsheets and digital platforms to ensure data across multiple facilities are accurate and up to date
• Assist Water Resources Operators with assigned tasks while optimizing time tracking and billing accuracy
• Utilize Vantagepoint, Microsoft Suite, and electronic filing systems for efficient data organization
• Obtain and maintain required licenses, such as Class A, I, WT1, WT2, DSS, or state equivalents
• Demonstrate knowledge of facility operations at classifications up to Class A, I, WT1, WT2, or DSS
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, including the Clean Water Act, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, and Safe Drinking Water Act
• Conduct essential field activities, including wastewater sampling, instrument calibration, meter reading, and groundwater sampling
• Communicate effectively with clients, state officials, and the Operations Manager regarding facility needs and performance
• Prepare proposals for client- requested tasks
• Provide technical expertise to meet client needs
• Support Water Resources Scientists in developing monitoring reports and project documentation
• Maintain and calibrate field equipment to ensure operational efficiency
• Participate in professional development with required external training (minimum of 8 hours) and 5 continuing education units per year
• Contribute to Project Team activities and assist in proposal development for client requests

JOB SPECIFICATIONS 

Education: B.S. in STEM discipline or 1 year of full-time experience at a drinking water or wastewater treatment plant 

Recommended Experience: 1 year of experience in environmental consulting 

Skills: Strong verbal/written communication 

Additional requirements: Valid driver’s license, acceptable driving record, and physically capable of operating vehicles safely 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES  

• Ability to quickly adjust to operational changes and effectively manage varying fields and administrative tasks
• Strong troubleshooting skills to identify and resolve issues with process controls and equipment
• Knowledge of water treatment processes and the ability to perform field activities like sampling, monitoring, and equipment calibration
• Proficiency in collecting, analyzing, and accurately documenting scientific data and reports
• Utilize administrative staff effectively
• Document and organize while working on multiple projects 
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for collaborating with clients, team members, and regulatory authorities
• Understanding of environmental regulations such as the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act, ensuring compliance in all activities

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS  

• Calibrate and use various types of field equipment. 
• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
• Work in small, cramped areas
• Travel across rough, uneven or rocky surfaces to access equipment
• Move heavy objects (50 pounds or more) short distances (20 feet or less)
• Work safely without presenting a direct threat to self or others 

JOB CONTEXT 

This position will primarily be dedicated to daily operation of the Burns Harbor Wastewater treatment system for about 8 months of the year, with travel to other sites in Northern Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio during the remaining months.

10% office (controlled environment), 90% field/site visit travel (environmental job hazards) 

This classification requires travel to various client locations. Travel typically involves day trips within the state or neighboring states, resulting in longer workdays; and may include extended and/or further travel, resulting in multiple days and overnights. Long distance drives and air travel may be required. Shift work and holiday work may be required on an as-needed and sometimes ongoing basis.