Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Coho Technology Solutions is seeking a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator that will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of a multi-stage wastewater treatment facility in accordance with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements. This position supports continuous plant operations by monitoring processes, operating treatment equipment, performing sampling and testing, adjusting chemical treatment, responding to alarms, and conducting routine operator-level maintenance. The operator will work rotating shifts in coordination with government personnel to ensure uninterrupted wastewater treatment operations.

Location: Mainside Wastewater Treatment Plant, Quantico, VA
Schedule: 12 hour rotating shifts (days/nights, weekends, holidays)

Responsibilities:

• Operate and monitor a wastewater treatment plant providing pretreatment, primary, secondary, and tertiary treatment in compliance with NPDES permit conditions.
• Operate pumps, valves, gates, feeders, flocculators, clarifiers, filters, UV disinfection systems, and related process control equipment.
• Collect influent, intermediate, and effluent samples; perform required testing and analysis (e.g., pH, temperature, settleable solids, flow rates).
• Adjust chemical feed rates and treatment processes based on test results and operational requirements.
• Perform tertiary treatment operations, including chemical mixing, polymer and chemical feed systems, gravity sand filtration, phosphorus and nitrogen removal, and UV disinfection.
• Respond to plant alarms and telemetry notifications; investigate issues and take corrective actions as needed.
• Make operational decisions during assigned shifts, including serving as Operator in Charge when required and determining appropriate actions during abnormal or emergency conditions.
• Operate sludge handling and disposal equipment such as centrifuges, vacuum coil filters, or belt filter presses.
• Perform operator-level preventive maintenance, including lubrication, minor repairs, adjustments, and calibration of equipment in accordance with SOPs, TPMs, and manufacturer manuals.
• Maintain accurate logs, records, flow charts, calibration records, and operational documentation.
• Work under the general direction of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Supervisor while exercising independent judgment within established procedures.
• Support continuous shift coverage and work mandatory overtime when required.

Requirements:

Experience

• Experience operating a wastewater treatment plant with multiple stages of treatment, including tertiary processes.
• Hands-on experience with wastewater treatment equipment, chemical treatment systems, and process monitoring.
• Experience working rotating shifts in a continuous operations environment preferred.

Skills and Knowledge

• Proficiency in the operation, purpose, and capabilities of wastewater treatment equipment and systems.
• Knowledge of safe handling and application of wastewater treatment chemicals, including sulfuric acid, sulfur dioxide, aluminum sulfate, ferric chloride, polymers, sodium hydroxide, lime, and related compounds.
• Knowledge of tertiary wastewater treatment processes, chlorination and dechlorination, and nutrient (phosphorus and nitrogen) removal.
• Understanding of ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system operation and maintenance.
• Ability to read and interpret digital and analog gauges, meters, and alarms.
• Ability to read, interpret, and apply technical manuals, SOPs, and regulatory documentation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Basic computer proficiency, including use of Windows-based systems and operational software.

Education and Certification

• Must possess and maintain a Virginia Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification, Class I or Class II.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical or vocational training in wastewater treatment or a related field preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to safely wear all required personal protective equipment, including respiratory protection.
• Ability to perform physical tasks including prolonged standing and walking, climbing ladders and stairs, and lifting objects weighing up to 45–50 pounds (occasionally more).
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.

Compensation range: $50 - $54 per hour.