Senior Treatment Plant Operator
About The Position
Resource Renew is hiring a full-time, on-site Senior Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator in Duluth, Minnesota. The role provides advanced technical expertise in wastewater treatment processes, equipment operation, regulatory compliance, and system optimization. The operator monitors, operates, and controls the daily operation of wastewater collection and treatment facilities and related systems, collaborating with licensed operators and trades professionals to support safety, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship. Resource Renew is the brand of the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District (WLSSD), a special-purpose government unit established by the Minnesota Legislature in 1971. It provides wastewater and solid waste services and oversight across a 530-square-mile region around Duluth. Its facilities include a main wastewater treatment plant, multiple pump stations, and varied solid waste collection sites. The position performs Operator on Duty responsibilities, oversees treatment and collection operations through SCADA and other facility systems, responds to emergencies and security concerns, maintains operational records and procedures, monitors permit requirements and process performance, and supports safe and compliant plant operations. Minimum qualifications include an education and/or experience combination meeting MPCA Class B wastewater operator certificate requirements, the certificate itself, a Class D driver's license or equivalent, and a Minnesota Special Engineer (boiler) license, which may be obtained upon hire.
Requirements
- Education and/or experience meeting the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Class B Wastewater Operator Certificate qualification requirements; an equivalent combination sufficient to perform the essential duties may also be considered.
- Possess an MPCA Class B Wastewater Operator Certificate.
- Possess a Class D driver's license or equivalent.
- Possess, or obtain upon hire, a State of Minnesota Special Engineer (boiler) license.
- Knowledge of NPDES wastewater discharge permit and air emissions permit requirements, and ability to recognize and respond to conditions that could cause operation outside normal ranges or non-compliance.
- Knowledge of statistical process control methods and tools for analyzing operating data and identifying process issues and opportunities.
- Knowledge of wastewater treatment theories and practices, including advanced secondary treatment.
- Knowledge of laboratory tests used in wastewater treatment operations, their significance, sampling techniques, and wastewater testing protocols.
- Knowledge of equipment, facilities, materials, methods, and procedures used in maintenance activities.
- Knowledge of occupational hazards and safety precautions associated with wastewater treatment plant equipment and processes.
- Ability to act independently and coordinate District resources to ensure consistent compliance with permit conditions.
- Ability to locate, troubleshoot, and repair minor operational equipment deficiencies.
Responsibilities
- Perform Operator on Duty functions by operating the wastewater treatment and collection system and monitoring related computer control and facility systems, including heating, power generation, and distribution.
- Provide process and facility oversight through the SCADA system, identifying operational issues and coordinating with operations, maintenance, and other staff and resources to address them.
- Monitor CCTV, access control, and other security systems, and coordinate responses to security issues during and outside normal business hours.
- Take independent action during emergencies, coordinate District employee responses according to procedures, secure and coordinate outside responders until relieved by the responsible District representative, alert management, and document as needed.
- Receive, record, and forward communications from industrial users and the public; respond professionally to public inquiries and inform management of pertinent issues or process deficiencies.
- Monitor, control, and adjust operating parameters based on permits, limits, and other facility considerations.
- Develop process-monitoring graphics and control charts; troubleshoot process-computer problems and provide first-level corrections.
- Maintain operational records, including daily data, key observations, and process exceptions.
- Conduct routine inspections of plant operations, buildings, and grounds.
- Develop and maintain standard operating procedures for the wastewater treatment plant and processes.
- Monitor and adjust boiler operation according to special license requirements and procedures determined by the Chief Boiler Engineer.
- Stay current on WLSSD NPDES permit requirements, air permit requirements, and process performance.
- Maintain awareness of safe work practices and ensure compliance with the District Safety Program.
Benefits
- 12 paid holidays and 4 personal leave days annually
- Front-loaded vacation plan
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Public Employer Pension Program (PERA)
- Basic life insurance, supplemental life insurance, and long-term disability plans
- Professional development, including tuition reimbursement and opportunities to attend conferences and training courses
- Employee wellness programs, including fitness reimbursement, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), health and safety education, and a Wellness Committee
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
