Wastewater Treatment Operator

Position Overview

The Wastewater Operator is responsible for the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of the facility’s wastewater treatment system. This role ensures all wastewater processes operate within regulatory limits while supporting plant production needs and protecting environmental compliance.

The operator performs daily system monitoring, laboratory testing, equipment inspections, and preventative maintenance while maintaining accurate documentation in SAP and regulatory systems. The role requires strong ownership of environmental stewardship, proactive problem solving, and collaboration with maintenance, production, and leadership teams.        

Responsibilities

Operate and monitor the wastewater treatment system to ensure consistent compliance with discharge permits and environmental standards.

• Monitoring influent and effluent system performance
• Conducting daily pH testing and process monitoring
• Adjusting chemical dosing and process controls as required
• Monitoring blowers, lift stations, and aeration systems
• Performing sludge management and process optimization
• Responding to alarms, process upsets, or equipment issues
• Supporting plant operations to minimize wastewater impacts from production
• Collect and analyze wastewater samples for required parameters
• Conduct nutrient testing and process lab analysis
• Perform Sludge Volume Index (SVI) / settleability testing
• Complete PACE effluent sampling and lab coordination
• Maintain regulatory documentation and sampling logs
• Support environmental reporting and audits
• Maintain compliance records within SAP and regulatory systems (KIEMS)

• Support Utilities team on Ammonia, water, air, and auxiliary systems as needed.

Education

Experience

Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills required.
• Basic math skills required.
• Must have or be able to obtain forklift certification.
• Must be able to work independently.
• Must be able to lift up to 55 pounds.
• Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions, for extended periods of time
• Must adhere to all safety requirements.
• Must know how to use a Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
• Must be able to complete Fit testing and be part of Hazardous response team
• Must have the desire to learn, grow and take on increasing responsibility.
• Strong interpersonal, multitasking and organizational skills in a team environment.
• Work experiences that demonstrate Johnsonville’s Core Values: Humble Candor, Personal Commitment, Collaborative Teamwork, and Learning Agility.

Must be able to use and have a basic understanding of Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Outlook

Other Requirements

• Must be 18 years old or older.
• Waste Water Op 1 Certification with ability to obtain Op 2 within 1 yr.

Benefits and Compensation

Applicants must be eligible to work in the country where this job is located, without requiring sponsorship now or in the future.