Wastewater Operator

Bonton Associates•Baton Rouge, LA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Wastewater Operator will independently perform a variety of complex tasks in the operation and maintenance of a water/wastewater treatment plant, including equipment maintenance, quality control/testing, and day-to-day activities during an assigned shift. This position requires advanced knowledge of equipment and tools, the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues, and a strong understanding of safety protocols. The role involves operating vehicles and machinery, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring the efficient functioning of the treatment plant. This position is part of a structured operator progression pathway. Advancement from Operator I to Operator II and Operator III is based on the successful completion of the corresponding Louisiana wastewater operator certification levels, demonstrated operational competency, reliability, safety performance, and the ability to perform tasks appropriate to the next tier independently. Operators are expected to actively pursue the next level of certification within a reasonable timeframe and participate in ongoing training to support increasing responsibilities. Promotion decisions will be based on certification status, job performance, and supervisory recommendations.

Requirements

Minimum High school diploma or equivalent
Valid Driver's licence with an acceptable MVR.
Familiarity with the principles and practices of water/wastewater treatment plant operations; operating principles of valves, pumps, and motors; principles and methods of bacteriological and chemical sewage analyses; effects and problems of industrial waste in water/wastewater treatment processes; safe work practices.
Strong knowledge of operating and maintaining vehicles, tools, and machinery used in wastewater treatment systems.
Ability to perform as an Operator-In-Training.
Operator I Minimum of 1 year of experience operating in water/wastewater systems or treatment plants.
Class I Wastewater Certification through the State of Louisiana.

Nice To Haves

Class 1 Wastewater Certification through the State of Louisiana.
1+ years of experience working in a water/wastewater treatment plant.
Operator II Minimum of 3 years of experience operating in water/wastewater systems or treatment plants.
Class II Wastewater Certification through the State of Louisiana.
Operator III Minimum of 5 years of experience operating in water/wastewater systems or treatment plants.
Class III Wastewater Certification through the State of Louisiana.

Responsibilities

Operate and maintain vehicles, tools, machinery, and equipment used in water and wastewater systems to control flow and processing of water/ wastewater, sludge, and effluent under minimal supervision.
Observe variations in operating conditions and interpret meter and gauge readings.
Operate valves and gates either manually or by remote control.
Start and stop pumps, engines, and generators to control and adjust flow and treatment processes.
Independently troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve operational and maintenance issues promptly.
Monitor and adjust plant processes to ensure regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.
Conduct inspections of systems, structures, and equipment to identify and prevent potential issues.
Maintain detailed records of operations, maintenance, and materials used.
Prepare reports, collect samples, perform laboratory testing, determine proper chemical flow rates, and maintain shift logs.
Establish and maintain cooperative relationships with those contacted during the course of work.
Follow and enforce all safety procedures and company protocols.
Make operating decisions in the absence of supervisory personnel.
Understand and carry out oral and written directions.
Perform other duties as required.