Lead Wastewater Operator

Woodardcurran; Abingdon (VA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) contributions with company match

Paid parental leave

Health, dental, and vision plans

Paid sick time

Disability coverage

Job summary

Woodard & Curran is looking for a Wastewater Operator at the Wolf Creek Water Reclamation Facility in Abingdon, Virginia. The role requires a Virginia Class 1 or Class 2 license and involves conducting daily operations and maintenance under the guidance of the Chief Operator.

This position emphasizes reliable attendance, availability for emergency callouts, and the ability to work independently. Preferred candidates will have experience and skills in mechanical and electrical operations.

Qualifications

• High School Degree or equivalent is required.
• Valid Virginia Driver's License is mandatory.
• Valid Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators license or ability to obtain one.
• Three or more years of experience in wastewater treatment operation.
• Ability to make sound decisions and adhere to safety procedures.

Responsibilities

• Participate in the daily operations of the Wastewater Treatment Facility.
• Respond to emergency events and alarm callouts as needed.
• Work under guidance of the Chief Operator.

Skills

Problem-solving

Mechanical skills

Electrical skills

Analytical testing

Education

High School Degree or equivalent

Virginia Driver's License

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators license

Job description

Woodard & Curran is a national engineering, science, and operations firm with a simple vision for clean water, a safe environment, healthy communities, and happy people. As an employee‑owned company, we strive to cultivate teams that encourage collaboration in an inclusive culture and offer opportunities for professional growth, ownership, and flexibility.

For more than 25 years, Woodard & Curran has offered contract operations and management services for drinking water, municipal and industrial wastewater, groundwater remediation, and solid waste facilities nationwide. We contract‑operate more than 50 facilities and rely on a network of certified operators, engineers, scientists, and regulatory experts to keep treatment plants running efficiently and in full compliance.

Job Overview

Woodard & Curran is seeking a Wastewater Operator with a Virginia Class 2 or Class 1 license for the Wolf Creek Water Reclamation Facility in Abingdon, Virginia. The operator will work under the guidance of the Chief Operator to conduct daily operations, maintenance, and processes at the facility.

Schedule

Hours: 7:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Reliable and dependable attendance is essential. Availability for standby duty, on‑call work, and response to emergency events, alarm callouts, weekends, and holidays as needed is required.

Responsibilities

Regular participation in the daily operations and maintenance of the Wastewater Treatment Facility as directed by the Chief Operator, including responding to emergency events and alarm callouts.

Qualifications

• High School Degree or equivalent.
• Valid Virginia Driver's License required.
• Valid State of Virginia Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators license or ability to work toward obtaining a wastewater license.
• Problem‑solving skills and ability to perform analytical testing on wastewater in a lab environment.
• Strong mechanical and electrical skills preferred.
• Lab experience preferred but not required.
• Three or more years of experience in wastewater treatment facility operation and maintenance, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to make sound decisions in process control, follow instructions, and adhere to safety procedures.
• Ability to work independently and be a self‑starter.
• Successful candidates will be required to complete a background check, pre‑placement physical, and drug screen before employment.

Employee Support & Benefits

• 401(k) pre‑tax or Roth contributions: Company matches 100% of the first 3% of salary contributed.
• Observed holidays: choose up to eight holidays to observe annually.
• Vacation: accrued based on years of experience and calculated on hours worked.
• Sick time: paid for non‑work‑related illness or injury.
• Parental leave: up to 80 hours of paid parental leave for child bonding.
• Disability: paid short‑ and long‑term disability.
• Health: medical plan options; dental and vision plans.
• Life: basic employee group life insurance and AD&D benefits; additional voluntary life insurance available.
• Wellbeing: DarioMind assistance program combined with personalized mental health and wellbeing resources.

Equal Employment Opportunity & Accessibility

Woodard & Curran is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to non‑discrimination and make employment decisions based on job‑related factors. Individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact Beth Sweitzer.