Job Description

Lead Wastewater Operator

Job Summary

The Lead Wastewater Operator will independently perform a variety of complex tasks in the operation and maintenance of a water/wastewater treatment plant, including maintenance of equipment, quality control/testing, and day-to-day activities on 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.

Primary Responsibilities

Establishes and maintains effective sample procedures of plant operations and effluent. Diagnoses operating problems; directs and performs necessary corrective action during work shift. Makes process control adjustments, reads gauges and meters, records data, and prepares necessary shift log reports. Prepares required reports and maintains complete record-keeping procedures. Performs operations and maintenance activities, including collecting samples, performing routine laboratory tests and analyses, and general housekeeping. Directs, assigns, and trains employees. Conducts weekly safety meetings. Makes operating decisions in the absence of supervisory personnel. Maintains discipline and ensures proper procedures are followed. Determines proper chemical flow rates. Assigns operators' monthly work schedule. Assigns replacement operators during emergency situations. Establishes and maintains cooperative relationships with those contacted during the course of work. Performs other duties as required.

Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent required. + (Preferred) 1-2 years post-high school education related to water/wastewater utility operations and maintenance.
Valid driver's license with an acceptable MVR. Strong knowledge of operating and maintaining vehicles, tools, and machinery used in wastewater treatment systems. (Preferred) Knowledge of the principles, methods, and tools employed in the general operation of engines, pumps, valves, motors, and related equipment; general maintenance work; safe work practices; principles and methods of biological and chemical sewage analyses, effects and problems of industrial waste in water/wastewater treatment processes, principles of supervision. (Preferred) Knowledge of computer software including but not limited to Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, data management systems and be able to operate plant PLC's and SCADA systems. Minimum of 5 years of experience operating in water/wastewater systems or treatment plants. + (Preferred) Minimum of 6 years of experience operating in water/wastewater systems or treatment plants.
Class IV Wastewater Certification Operator through the State of Louisiana.

Key Competencies

Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. Excellent oral and written communication abilities. Advanced understanding of water and wastewater system operations. Ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure. Team leadership and mentoring capabilities. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and time management. High stress tolerance and a strong safety-first mindset.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

Normal, corrective vision range; ability to see color and to distinguish letters, numbers and symbols. Frequently required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, bend and reach for long periods of times in a treatment plant setting. Ability to reach with hands and arms. Occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds. Ability to work a rotating schedule, including some nights and weekends, and willingness to work overtime as needed (overtime is not guaranteed). Safety is a core value at Bonton Associates. We are committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all employees. This position will spend a substantial amount of time performing safety sensitive labor or services. Due to the nature of the job passing a Fitness for Duty testing is required to ensure candidates for this position are physically and functionally fit to perform the essential physical work functions of this safety sensitive position without posing a direct threat to the health or safety of themselves or others. The physical and environmental demands required to perform the essential duties of this position include standing, walking, sitting, coordination, balance and agility demands, which may include the ability to stoop, kneel, squat, grasp, reach, perform repetitive hand movements. Additional demands may involve a specific level of dexterity, grip strength, climbing and cardiorespiratory demands. The work areas may be indoor, outdoor, have loud noise, active machinery, high pressure fluid systems, electrical equipment, confined spaces, heights and depths, fumes, airborne particles, noxious gases, and chemicals. The use of appropriate safety equipment will be mandatory in these areas to prevent hazardous contact.

Other Duties

This job description is not all-inclusive of all job duties. Job duties and responsibilities may be assigned that are not mentioned above at any time based upon the demands of the Company. Essential functions and overtime eligibility may vary based on the specific duties/requirements assigned to the position.