Wastewater Treatment Operator
Responsible for managing processes in a wastewater treatment plant to ensure compliance with environmental policies, including monitoring equipment, controlling chemical processes, and testing water samples.
Top Articles for Wastewater Treatment Operator
Sample Job Descriptions for Wastewater Treatment Operator
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Wastewater Treatment Operator, you'll play a crucial role in the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants. This entry-level position requires attention to detail, willingness to work in various environmental conditions, and compliance with safety and health regulations.
Required Skills
- Attention to detail
- Ability to follow standard operating procedures
- Basic mathematical and science proficiency
- Strong communication skills
- Problem-solving capabilities
Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Ability to obtain or currently hold a wastewater treatment operator license or certificate.
- Basic understanding of mechanical components and systems.
- Aptitude for working with process control systems and instrumentation.
- Physical ability to perform tasks in various weather conditions and stand for extended periods.
Responsibilities
- Monitor plant equipment and processes to ensure proper waste treatment.
- Record and report operational data, equipment status, and any abnormalities.
- Perform routine maintenance of pumps, motors, and other equipment.
- Collect and test wastewater and sludge samples for analysis.
- Adhere to environmental regulations and safety protocols at all times.
- Assist in the optimization of wastewater treatment processes.
- Participate in emergency response activities in case of spills or other incidents.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As an Intermediate Wastewater Treatment Operator, you will play a critical role in operating, monitoring, and maintaining equipment and facilities that are key to the process of treating wastewater to meet environmental guidelines. Working in municipal or industrial settings, you will ensure that water returned to the environment is clean and safe. Your technical abilities and keen understanding of the treatment process will contribute to public health and environmental sustainability.
Required Skills
- Proficiency in the use of hand tools and maintenance equipment.
- Solid analytical skills for accurate sample testing and interpretation.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
- Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
- Ability to operate computerized control systems and other related technology.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent; associates or technical degree preferred.
- Certification or license as a wastewater operator, which may vary by jurisdiction.
- 2-5 years of experience in wastewater treatment operations or a related field.
- Knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to wastewater treatment and environmental protection.
- Ability to read and interpret technical documents such as operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
Responsibilities
- Monitor and operate pumps, valves, and other equipment to regulate wastewater flow through the plant.
- Perform routine maintenance on equipment to ensure efficient operation and prevent breakdowns.
- Collect and analyze samples of wastewater, sludge, and other materials to monitor treatment effectiveness.
- Maintain records of operations, including flow charts, maintenance activities, and regulatory compliance documentation.
- Coordinate with maintenance staff to troubleshoot and repair equipment as needed.
- Operate and maintain digesters and other treatment systems to assure proper processing of waste.
- Assist in training junior operators and participate in continuing education to stay current with evolving treatment technologies.
- Adhere to safety and health regulations to ensure a safe working environment.
- Engage in emergency response protocols in case of environmental or public safety incidents.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Senior Wastewater Treatment Operator, you will be responsible for overseeing the effective treatment of wastewater, ensuring compliance with government regulations, and maintaining the operation of wastewater treatment plants. You will play a crucial role in protecting public health and the environment.
Required Skills
- Strong leadership and managerial skills.
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
- Exceptional organizational and time management skills.
- Good communication skills, both oral and written.
- Proficiency in using computer systems and software relevant to wastewater treatment.
Qualifications
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in wastewater treatment operations.
- Possession of a valid Wastewater Operator Certificate or equivalent.
- Thorough knowledge of state and federal environmental regulations.
- Proven experience in managing a team in a plant or industrial setting.
- Experience with industrial safety practices and compliance.
Responsibilities
- Supervise and control the operations of the wastewater treatment plant to meet regulatory requirements.
- Conduct regular inspections and maintenance of plant equipment to ensure operational efficiency.
- Develop and implement standard operating procedures for plant operations.
- Train and lead junior operators and technical staff.
- Coordinate with local authorities and stakeholders regarding environmental compliance and reporting.
- Monitor treatment processes, interpreting meter and gauge readings, and testing results.
- Respond to emergency situations at the plant to minimize disruption to services.
- Oversee the sludge processing and disposal according to environmental regulations.
- Conduct performance evaluations of plant operations and recommend improvements.
- Prepare and manage the budget for operations and maintenance of the treatment plant.
See other roles in Healthcare, Wellness, and Social Services and Environmental
Want content like this in your inbox? Sign Up for our Newsletter
Sample Interview Questions
