Plant Manager – Wastewater Operations (Acton, MA)

Woodard & Curran; Acton (MA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

Woodard & Curran is seeking a full-time Plant Manager for Acton, MA, overseeing wastewater operations at the Acton facility and associated pump stations. Lead daily operations, supervise two operators, manage budgets, and coordinate with regulators and the client.

This role requires a MA Grade 5 Wastewater Operator License, 5–10 years of relevant experience, strong communication, and a hands-on leadership style. Occasional after-hours coverage may be required.

Qualifications

• Massachusetts Grade 5 Wastewater Treatment Operator License.
• 5–10 years of wastewater or water treatment experience.
• Experience managing a minimum of two employees.
• Experience with SCADA and plant data reporting.
• Strong verbal and written communication and regulator interaction.
• Valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Support daily operation and maintenance of assigned equipment and systems.
• Supervise a small team of two operators and coordinate staff scheduling.
• Prepare and review reports for regulators, the client, and Woodard & Curran.
• Manage annual operating and capital budgets; oversee scope and schedule of obligations.
• Ensure safe operations and regulatory compliance across the plant and pump stations.
• Respond to emergencies, standby duties, and off-hours as needed.

Skills

Wastewater operations

Team management

Regulatory liaison

Communication skills

Driver's license

High school diploma

Problem solving

Education

Massachusetts Grade 5 Wastewater Operator License

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

SCADA

Maintenance management programs

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

All Careers Plant Manager - Wastewater Operations (Acton, MA)

Plant Manager - Wastewater Operations (Acton, MA)

Woodard & Curran is an employee-owned engineering, science, and operations firm dedicated to clean water, a safe environment, healthy communities, and happy people. We foster an inclusive, collaborative culture that supports professional growth, flexibility, and meaningful work, empowering our employees to make a lasting impact on our clients, communities, and the planet.

What Will You Be Doing at Woodard & Curran?

Woodard & Curran is seeking a full-time Plant Manager for the Town of Acton’s sequencing batch reactor wastewater treatment facility and wastewater pump stations.

As the Plant Manager, you will participate in the daily operation and general maintenance of the facility’s equipment, structures, and grounds in a safe and timely manner. Each day brings different challenges and learning opportunities as the team works toward achieving 100% compliance through daily process monitoring and a comprehensive maintenance system.

You will be responsible for the day-to-day management and supervision of the treatment plant and pump stations while overseeing a small team of two operators. This includes scheduling, coordinating, and directing plant staff in the overall operation of the treatment processes and maintenance activities throughout the facilities.

You will also help foster a safe work environment for all plant personnel and visitors. In addition, you will regularly prepare reports for regulators, the client, and Woodard & Curran; manage the project’s annual operating and capital budgets; oversee the scope and schedule of contractual obligations; and serve as the primary point of contact between the client and Woodard & Curran.

This position is supported by an Area Manager. However, the Plant Manager must be comfortable working in a self-directed environment with minimal daily supervision.

Woodard & Curran is dedicated to the growth and development of our employees and wants to help you along your career path.

What You Will Be Responsible For

• Support the daily operation and maintenance of assigned equipment and systems, including residuals management, electrical and mechanical components, SCADA and remote communication networks, and strategic pump and flow management.
• Manage and maintain the daily operations log.
• Collect samples and conduct laboratory testing when necessary to support regulatory compliance.
• Meet regularly with the client to discuss and review plant operations and maintenance.
• Manage annual operating and capital budgets.
• Monitor facility operations by inspecting equipment and reviewing operating data, records, and reports.
• Coordinate required sampling activities.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date project records.
• Prepare and review all required reports.
• Work in cooperation with the client to respond to complaints related to the operation of the wastewater treatment facility and pump stations.
• Initiate appropriate action to resolve operational issues.
• Manage repair, maintenance, and construction activities for the project.
• Coordinate repair, maintenance, and construction activities with the client.
• Ensure employees receive proper training on materials, equipment, tools, and safety procedures.

Schedule

The regular schedule for this position is:

Monday through Friday

The Plant Manager must also be available for standby duty and on-call coverage. This may include working evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

The position is responsible for responding to emergency events and alarm call-outs as scheduled and required. An irregular work schedule and overtime hours may also be required.

What Will You Need to Succeed?

• A minimum of a Massachusetts Grade 5 Wastewater Treatment Operator License.
• Five to ten years of experience in the wastewater and/or water treatment industry.
• Significant, direct participation in the management, operation, maintenance, and repair of water or wastewater facilities during the last ten years.
• Experience managing a minimum of two employees.
• Proficiency with computers and operational technology, including:
  • SCADA
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Maintenance management programs
  • Other site-specific systems
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• A proven track record of working with regulators.
• A solid understanding of regulations and reporting requirements.
• The ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, other personnel, and the general public.
• The ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Familiarity with biological and chemical treatment processes, with a particular aptitude for laboratory analysis, recordkeeping, and facility maintenance.
• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• A valid driver’s license.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to regularly lift or move up to 40 pounds.

Pre-Employment Requirements

• DOT background check
• DOT pre-placement physical
• DOT drug screen

Woodard & Curran offers a comprehensive benefits package. For more information about our benefits & workplace policies visit Benefit & Policy Information - Woodard & Curran .

E-Verify Participation: Woodard & Curran participates in E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. As part of this process, we provide access to the Right to Work & E-Verify postings.

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.

Text Messaging: To support an efficient hiring process, we may send brief SMS updates or reminders. You may opt out at any time by replying STOP.

Depending on qualifications and experience. This position is eligible for straight hourly overtime pay for hours over 40 per week.

Salary Range: $38 - $48

Location
Acton, MA

Team
O&M Leadership

Department
O&M

Commitment
Full-time