Wastewater Operator

Company Overview
Solution Group delivers operational programs along with chemical program management and technical expertise to some of the most demanding industrial wastewater operations across the US, including dairy processing, rendering plants, and food & beverage facilities. Our mission is to help customers achieve operational excellence through compliance, maximize treatment efficiency, and minimize operating costs.

Position Summary
The Wastewater Operator is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the industrial wastewater treatment plant to ensure the safe, efficient, and economical treatment of wastewater. This position will execute the policies and assignments received from corporate management, the Lead Operator, Site Manager, and/or compliance requirements defined by state and federal regulatory agencies. To be successful, the Operator requires a high degree of independent judgment in accomplishing the work and developing continuous improvement programs.

Key Responsibilities

Wastewater Treatment Operations

Oversees operation of facilities during respective shift to meet all applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with design criteria.

• Helps develop and implement techniques and methods of process control which increase plant efficiency.

• Remote monitoring and control of the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

• Completes tasks as assigned on the preventive maintenance program.

• Supports emergency and unscheduled work to assure appropriate follow-through.

• Complies with plant safety and risk management programs for operators and contractors on site, in accordance with plant policies, procedures, or requirements.

• Executes equipment repair or replacement such that effluent quality limits are maintained.

• Safely handles, stores, and applies treatment chemicals including acids (e.g., sulfuric acid, citric acid), bases (e.g., sodium hydroxide, lime), and chlorine-based compounds (e.g., sodium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite) used for pH adjustment, disinfection,

and odor control, in accordance with Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Cal/OSHA standards, and facility chemical handling procedures.

• Advises on the requisition of appropriate tools, materials, equipment, and services.

• Performs routine laboratory analysis on the Wastewater Treatment Plant technology as assigned.

• Provides support in gathering samples and entering data into computerized spreadsheets.

• Provides feedback on appropriate inventory of stored material for use.

• Reviews and comments on all plans for construction, repair, or replacement of any components, as requested.

• Assists in preparation of budget by providing input relative to O&M fiscal needs.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Chemical Safety & Hazardous Materials Handling

Reads, understands, and applies Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals used on site, including acids, bases, oxidizers, and chlorine-based compounds.

• Inspects chemical storage areas, secondary containment, and feed systems daily for leaks, spills, or equipment deficiencies; takes corrective action or reports findings to supervisor immediately.

• Follows all chemical emergency response procedures including spill containment, neutralization protocols, emergency eyewash/shower use, and evacuation procedures.

• Wears appropriate PPE for chemical handling including face shield, chemical-resistant gloves, apron, and respiratory protection as required by SDS and site procedures.

• Participates in chemical handling training, hazard communication (HazCom/GHS) training, and facility emergency response drills.

Cross-Training & Coverage

Cross-trains in potable water treatment and distribution operations and other industrial utility systems as assigned by management to support multi-discipline facility coverage.

• Provides operational coverage for water treatment and distribution functions during absences, shift gaps, or periods of increased workload, ensuring continuity of compliance and system performance.

• Responds to emergency call-ins and schedule adjustments to provide coverage across wastewater, water, and other industrial equipment disciplines as assigned.

• Actively participates in cross-training programs, skill development activities, and knowledge-sharing initiatives to build comprehensive facility operational knowledge.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Minimum 1-year experience or commensurate experience in the operation and maintenance of a Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Required Certifications & Licensing

California Wastewater Treatment Operator Certificate — Grade I required within 1 year of hire. (Active pursuit and registration for examination expected immediately upon hire.)

• California Water Distribution Operator Certificate — Grade D1 required within 6 months of hire.

• California Water Treatment Operator Certificate — Grade T1 preferred; required within 1 year of hire.

• Valid California Driver’s License with a clean driving record required.

• Forklift certification and/or confined space entry certification preferred; training provided if not currently held.

Technical Knowledge

Knowledge of and ability to apply policies and procedures.

• Knowledge of the methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in the operation, maintenance, inspection, repair, and installation of wastewater treatment plant components.

• Knowledge of the mechanical, biological, and chemical processes involved in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant.

• Knowledge of occupational hazards in wastewater treatment plants including chemical handling (acids, bases, and chlorine-based compounds), biological hazards, and confined space risks, and the safety measures to be implemented.

• Knowledge of and ability to apply principles of sound management and budget.

Abilities & Competencies

Ability to operate and maintain equipment used in the wastewater treatment process.

• Ability to perform, analyze, and interpret laboratory tests in accordance with standardized testing procedures for the purpose of making operational adjustments.

• Ability to deal effectively with people at all levels.

• Ability to read and interpret engineering specifications and drawings pertaining to plant expansions and improvements.

• Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions in the English language.

• Understanding of fundamental computer skills, including previous experience using Microsoft Office for communications and reporting.

• Experience with preventive maintenance software.

Physical Requirements

Must be flexible and willing to work the demands of the department which are subject to overnight shifts, weekends, and holidays.

• Must be able to climb ladders, regularly lift weights up to 50 pounds, and work in a physically demanding environment including varying plant and weather conditions.

• Subject to regular exposure to hazardous chemicals including acids, bases, and chlorine-based compounds; proper PPE use is mandatory.

• May involve exposure to biological materials, noise, and odorous conditions inherent to wastewater treatment operations.

• Comfortable working in industrial environments and using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including respiratory protection.

Why Join Us

Be part of a highly skilled, solutions-focused team serving some of the most dynamic industries in the country.

• Competitive base salary.

• Travel mileage reimbursement.

• Opportunities for continued technical training and career advancement.

Compensation

Starting pay for the successful applicant will depend on a variety of factors, including but not limited to education, training, experience, location, business needs, internal equity, market demands, or budgeted amount for the role. The target hiring range is for new hire offers only, and staff compensation may increase beyond the maximum hiring range based on performance over time. The maximum of the hiring range is reserved for candidates with the highest qualifications and relevant experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other protected class in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $26.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• How many years of Wastewater experience do you have?
• This an overnight position. Can you work the night shift?

Work Location: In person