Job Description
Job Description Job Title: Sr Operator, Wastewater Treatment Posting Start Date: 3/11/26 Job Description Primary Role American Water is currently seeking a Sr Operator to work at our Woodbridge, VA location. As a Sr Operator you will work alone or as a member of a team, and will be responsible for performing skilled level work in the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment facility to ensure the facility is operating in a manner which meets all state and federal regulatory requirements for wastewater treatment and collection. Key Accountabilities Operates, monitors, and adjusts wastewater treatment processes and equipment to ensure efficient and compliant operation Perform routine operations and maintenance tasks within the plant/treatment facility, including the care and operation of specialized equipment such as pumps, motors, chlorinators, and chemical preparation and feeding systems Operate and monitor physical, chemical, and biological wastewater treatment processes, as well as associated control and monitoring equipment Operates, and performs routine duties and care of a wide variety of specialized equipment and apparatus in a plant/treatment facility including pumps, motors, chlorinators, chemical preparation, and feeding; physical, chemical, and biological wastewater treatment processes; control equipment and monitoring equipment Troubleshoots complex operational issues and recommends or implements corrective actions Operates, monitors, and adjusts wastewater treatment processes and equipment to ensure efficient and compliant operation Supports daily operational activities Assists with the regulating the flow of wastewater and sludge through the treatment processes Maintain plant records such as operator logs. Complete and submit routine and special reports, as assigned Inspect all mechanical equipment for proper operation Performs normal lubrication, adjustments, seal packing, minor maintenance, and minor repairs, as necessary Assists with performing related field and laboratory tests necessary to monitor and control the facilities, as needed Makes necessary adjustments to equipment, processes, and chemical feeders, as test results may indicate and as instructed by the Lead Operator/Supervisor Respond to customer service calls May assist with training other employees in the operation and care of facilities including safety, maintenance, repairs, and laboratory work, as required Conduct safety inspections and follow safety rules and procedures Communicate effectively with other operators and supervisors Attend and participate in operational and safety training programs as directed by management Interact with fellow employees and the public in a professional and courteous manner at all times Performs all duties as necessary, as well as other related duties, as assigned; assists other departments as needed Knowledge/Skills Advanced knowledge of the principles and safety practices of wastewater or water distribution, pumping, collection, and treatment, each as they may apply to area of responsibility Advanced knowledge of the mechanical, chemical, and biological processes and related equipment, as well as an awareness and alertness regarding operational modification necessary in both routine and emergency situations Must be able to comprehend analytical methods described in "Standards Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater” Effective quantitative and analytical skills; attention to detail Effective verbal and written communication skills (e.g., report writing, listening) Effective computer skills Skilled in problem-solving, troubleshooting, and decision‑making in dynamic environments Strong leadership skills and ability to train and mentor others Experience/Education High School Diploma or equivalent required College course work in biology, chemistry, environmental science or engineering preferred 5+ years’ experience in mechanical, industrial, environmental, or utility work Experience in the water/wastewater treatment field preferred Certifications & Licenses License requirements vary by state. Candidate must possess required license(s) or have the ability to obtain license within designated timeframe Work Environment Work performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, including exposure to chemicals, odors, noise, and varying weather conditions Ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment is required May be required to work in buildings, in pit