Job Description
Operator in Charge (OIC) Metric Geo – Almena, Wisconsin, United States (On-site) About the Client: Metric Geo is partnered with a high-growth cleantech company specializing in industrial wastewater treatment, water reuse, and resource recovery solutions. The organization designs, builds, owns, and operates advanced treatment systems for industrial clients, with a strong focus on sustainability and water-as-a-service delivery models. Backed by private investment and experiencing rapid expansion across the United States, the company is scaling its operations team to support a growing portfolio of wastewater treatment facilities. This is an opportunity to join a technically advanced and mission-driven organization at the forefront of sustainable water infrastructure. Operator in Charge (OIC): The Operator in Charge will oversee the day-to-day operation and performance of an industrial wastewater treatment facility, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and reliability across all plant systems. This role is a hands-on leadership position responsible for operating and maintaining treatment equipment, managing Field Service Representatives, and ensuring the facility meets all regulatory and contractual requirements. The ideal candidate will bring strong operational experience within wastewater treatment, along with the ability to troubleshoot systems, analyze performance data, and lead site-level activities. This position reports to the VP of Operations and is fully onsite in Almena, Wisconsin. Key Responsibilities: Lead daily plant operations, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant wastewater treatment performance Manage and develop a team of Field Service Representatives, fostering a strong culture of safety and accountability Operate, monitor, and optimize treatment systems to meet design specifications and performance targets Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements, including EPA and state-level standards Maintain contract compliance related to water quality, flow, and operational performance Monitor and analyze system data (COD, BOD, MLSS, SRT, flow, pH, DO, turbidity, etc.) to identify trends and optimize performance Perform routine and preventative maintenance on pumps, valves, blowers, instrumentation, and chemical systems Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and control system issues to minimize downtime Maintain inventory of chemicals, spare parts, and consumables required for continuous operations Collaborate with engineering, operations, and safety teams to ensure alignment with company standards and best practices Review and support updates to P&IDs, operating procedures, and maintenance documentation Communicate regularly with customers, providing updates on system performance and operational activities Support site tours and collaborate with commercial teams as needed Utilize SCADA/PLC systems (Ignition, Allen-Bradley, etc.) to monitor and control operations, including responding to alarms outside standard hours Maintain accurate site documentation, reporting, and compliance records Support commissioning activities and provide operational input for new and existing facilities Qualifications: 5+ years of experience operating industrial or municipal wastewater treatment facilities Hands-on experience with biological treatment systems, including aerobic and anaerobic processes Familiarity with MBR, RO, and advanced treatment technologies Strong understanding of wastewater process control, laboratory testing, and performance monitoring Experience troubleshooting process equipment, instrumentation, and control systems Working knowledge of P&IDs, PFDs, and system documentation Experience with SCADA/PLC platforms such as Ignition or Allen-Bradley Understanding of EPA and state regulatory compliance requirements Preferred: Wisconsin wastewater operator license (or ability to obtain) Experience in food & beverage or industrial wastewater applications Technical degree or certification in engineering, environmental science, or related field