SMF operator

WIOA; Wellington; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Team environment

Growth opportunities

Stable employment

Meaningful work

EAP program

Job summary

Veolia operates New Zealand’s first Thermal Hydrolysis Process (THP) facility at Moa Point, delivering advanced wastewater treatment technology. The role offers exclusive training from Veolia’s global experts and opportunities to help build local operational capability.

You’ll join a team of THP operators, gaining hands-on experience with state‑of‑the‑art systems and contributing to site performance while adhering to safety and regulatory requirements in New Zealand.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in wastewater treatment processes.
• Proven problem-solving skills with documented methodologies.
• Proven ability to maintain accurate work records.
• Experience with CMMS (Computerised Maintenance Management Systems).
• Proficiency with SCADA systems and process control.
• Emergency response and troubleshooting capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor THP and related plant units on a rotating 12‑hour shift schedule.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks and update CMMS documentation.
• Collaborate with Moa Point WWTP operators for seamless integration.
• Contribute to SOP development and process improvement initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records of operations, testing, and safety checks.
• Support safety audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations.

Skills

Wastewater treatment

Problem solving

Record keeping

CMMS

SCADA

Emergency response

Troubleshooting

Education

Technical qualification in wastewater treatment

Tools

CMMS

SCADA systems

Job description

The Opportunity

Veolia is a global leader in sustainable resource management. We’re proud to operateNew Zealand’s first Thermal Hydrolysis Process (THP) facilityat Moa Point—cutting-edge technology that’s transforming wastewater treatment. This is a unique, career-defining opportunity to be part of something pioneering.

What you’ll be responsible for

We’re seeking an experienced Operator to join our team and become one of New Zealand’s first specialised THP operators. You’ll work with state‑of‑the‑art technology, receive exclusive training from Veolia’s global experts, and play a crucial role in establishing efficient plant operations while building local operational capability.

Key Responsibilities

Daily Operations

• Work 12-hour rotating shifts (day and night) to ensure continuous plant operations
• Monitor and operate dewatering, THP, anaerobic digestion, and thermal dryer units to achieve performance targets
• Execute daily operational routines including process monitoring, sampling, and testing
• Monitor and optimise process control parameters through SCADA systems
• Conduct regular plant inspections and maintain detailed operational logs
• Respond to process alarms and implement corrective actions
• Input and maintain accurate operational data in plant management systems
• Work 12-hour rotating shifts to ensure continuous plant operations

Maintenance Support

• Carry out planned preventative maintenance activities according to schedule
• Complete maintenance documentation and update CMMS
• Identify and report potential equipment issues before failure
• Support contractors during specialised maintenance activities
• Liaise with maintenance teams and support reactive maintenance tasks

Collaboration & Integration

• Work closely with Moa Point WWTP operators to ensure seamless integration
• Participate in joint operational planning meetings
• Coordinate process changes that may impact other operations
• Contribute to overall site performance optimisation

Skill Development & Innovation

• Participate in specialised training programs at Veolia’s international facilities
• Learn from SMF Technicians and experts during commissioning and early operations
• Help develop and refine operational procedures for NZ conditions
• Become a subject matter expert in THP operations

Procedures & Documentation

• Assist with development, review, and improvement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Lead optimisation of operational procedures based on plant performance
• Ensure strict adherence to SOPs and safety protocols
• Maintain accurate records of all operational and maintenance activities
• Contribute to continuous improvement of plant documentation

Safety & Compliance

• Drive compliance with contractual obligations, resource consent requirements, and H&S/environmental regulations
• Apply safe isolation practices including Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO)
• Promote positive safety behaviours and develop a proactive safety culture
• Participate in safety audits and risk assessments
• Manage chemical deliveries and inventory levels
• Report and investigate safety/environmental hazards, near misses, and incidents
• Comply with Veolia’s Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Policy Statements

What you’ll need to be successful

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• Demonstrated expertise in wastewater treatment processes
• Proven problem‑solving skills with documented methodologies
• Proven ability to maintain accurate work records
• Experience with CMMS (Computerised Maintenance Management Systems)
• Proficiency with SCADA systems and process control
• Emergency response and troubleshooting capabilities

Desirable Qualifications:

• Recognised technical qualification in wastewater treatment or related field
• Experience with anaerobic digestion and thermal drying processes
• Basic understanding of ISO45001, ISO9001, ISO14001, ISO55000, or ISO50001

Personal Attributes:

• Strong technical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent communication and mentoring skills
• Meticulous attention to detail in documentation
• Safety-focused mindset with proactive approach
• Strong team player with collaborative mindset
• Self‑starter with ability to work autonomously
• Positive can‑do attitude
• Ability to work in a multicultural environment
• Strong literacy, numeracy, and computing skills
• Motivation, enthusiasm, and keen eye for detail

What’s on offer

• Competitive salary
• A great team focused working environment
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Stable employment with a reputable, world leading, 3 waters Network focused organisation
• Meaningful work that contributes to the well‑being of our community and keeps the cogs of society turning.
• Employee assistance programs (EAP) through assure which covers mental health, nutrition, financial, legal, coaching and career transition support