A Water Treatment Specialist or Waste Water Operator operates and monitors equipment in facilities that treat wastewater. Monitors treatment processes so that water is cleaned to meet public health and environmental standards and is safe for drinking or releasing into the environment.
at Jacobs in Chicago, Illinois, United States Job Description We are seeking a full-time Senior Technician to oversee wastewater treatment plant operations and support environmental, utility, and infrastructure activities across a large industrial site. The successful candidate must possess a valid Illinois Class K Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator License and demonstrate strong technical, troubleshooting, safety, and operational leadership skills.
Key Responsibilities:
Operate, monitor, and maintain wastewater treatment systems, including aeration equipment, pumps, discharge systems, and associated process controls Perform daily inspections of treatment facilities, ponds, utility corridors, fence lines, and critical infrastructure to ensure safe and reliable operations Monitor site discharge systems and water levels, respond to weather-related events, and implement operational adjustments to maintain environmental compliance Conduct routine equipment inspections, preventive maintenance activities, and basic troubleshooting of mechanical and electrical systems Support regulatory compliance programs, including NPDES sampling, environmental monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements Coordinate and oversee contractor activities, participate in daily safety meetings, and verify safe work practices Monitor site alarm and security systems and respond appropriately to operational notifications and emergency conditions Perform weekly inspections of safety equipment, waste management areas, fire extinguishers, eyewash stations, first aid supplies, and other compliance-related systems. Assist with operational planning, project coordination, inventory management, and site documentation Support emergency preparedness and response activities, including severe weather monitoring and incident response Illinois Class K Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator License required OSHA 40-Hour
HAZWOPER
Certification required RCRA hazardous waste management training preferred Experience operating and maintaining industrial wastewater treatment systems Knowledge of environmental compliance programs, sampling protocols, and industrial site operations Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills Experience coordinating field activities and working safely around contractors and industrial equipment OSHA and environmental compliance training experience preferred This position requires the operation of a company vehicle. A company vehicle therefore may be assigned specific to this project/client and, if assigned, may only be used for work purposes. The candidate must possess a valid driver's license, and must undergo a motor vehicle records check and meet company motor vehicle record adjudication standards. This position requires a hands-on professional capable of working independently while ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient operation of critical wastewater treatment and industrial site systems. #LI-AC4 Jacobs is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, medical condition, marital or domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression and transgender status, mental disability or physical disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship, low-income status or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable law. Learn more about your rights under Federal EEO laws and supplemental language. To view full details and how to apply, please login or create a Job Seeker account