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Job Description
Job Summary We are seeking an autonomous, highly detailed Lead Wastewater Treatment Operator to take full ownership of our 20 GPM industrial wastewater treatment system. In this critical role, you will manage, monitor, and optimize our automated pH neutralization and heavy metal precipitation/flocculation processes. The ideal candidate is more than a system monitor; you are a proactive problem-solver who understands chemical reactions, takes pride in preventative maintenance, and possesses the disciplined approach required to ensure 100% compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations. You will serve as the shop's primary defense for environmental safety, ensuring uninterrupted production flow through consistent treatment performance.
Key ResponsibilitiesSystem Operation & Optimization Process Management:
Masterfully operate and continuously optimize a 20 GPM wastewater system, precisely managing pH adjustments, neutralization chemistry, metal precipitation, and flocculation/coagulation mechanisms.
Equipment Care & Maintenance:
Monitor and perform preventative maintenance and minor mechanical repairs on all system infrastructure, including transfer pumps, metering pumps, automated chemical feed systems, filter presses, reaction tanks, holding tanks, and associated process piping.
Chemical Management:
Safely handle, inventory, and manage bulk treatment chemicals using rigorous personal protective equipment (PPE) and chemical safety protocols.
Perform routine and precision sampling and testing (including pH, heavy metals, and Total Suspended Solids (TSS)) to verify system efficiency and ensure effluent quality meets strict discharge limits.
Dynamic Dosing:
Analyze chemical data and test results in real-time to make calculated adjustments to chemical metering and dosing loops.
Audit-Ready Documentation:
Maintain flawless, audit-ready logs detailing flow rates, chemical consumption, system parameters, and testing metrics. Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal environmental guidelines.
Production Collaboration Load Management:
Coordinate closely with production management to forecast and manage shifting wastewater volume, chemistry profiles, and system loading to prevent production bottlenecks.
Qualifications and RequirementsTechnical Experience & Credentials Experience:
3+ years of hands-on experience operating industrial wastewater treatment systems, ideally with an emphasis on physical/chemical treatment (metal precipitation, flocculation, and filtration).
Equipment Mastery:
Demonstrated proficiency in operating, troubleshooting, and cleaning plate-and-frame filter presses , diaphragm pumps, and automated chemical dosing systems. Certification (Highly Desirable): Valid state-issued Industrial Wastewater Operator certification (e.g., Grade I or higher) is a major plus.
Lab Competency:
Proficient in the use and calibration of laboratory equipment, including benchtop and inline pH meters, jar testing setups, and analytical test kits.
Familiarity with EPA, OSHA, and local POTW (Publicly Owned Treatment Works) discharge regulations and reporting.
Safety Protocols:
In-depth understanding of standard safety practices for chemical handling (HazMat, HAZWOPER awareness, and SDS interpretation).
Critical Soft Skills Autonomous Problem-Solving:
High mechanical and chemical aptitude. Ability to independently diagnose system anomalies (e.g., poor floc formation, pump cavitation, pH drift) and execute immediate corrective actions.
Exceptional Documentation:
A disciplined approach to paperwork, record-keeping, and tracking lot/batch details.
Communication:
Clear verbal and written communication skills to effectively collaborate with production personnel and report system status to management. Physical Demands Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods on concrete shop floors. Ability to routinely lift and manipulate up to 50 lbs (such as chemical carboys, filter plates, or raw material). Comfort working around industrial chemical environments and wearing full required PPE (respirators, aprons, face shields) when handling chemical concentrates. What We Offer A highly stable, vital position within an organized and safety-first manufacturing facility. Competitive compensation with pathways for continued technical development. A supportive leadership team that values environmental compliance and workplace safety.
Job Type:
Full-time Pay:
$25.00 - $30.00 per hour
Benefits:
Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
