Potable Water & Wastewater Treatment Operator

Dexterra; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 34,440 - 48,216; Full time

Job summary

Dexterra is seeking a Potable Water & Wastewater Treatment Operator based in Houston, Texas. This full-time position involves the safe operation and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment systems, ensuring compliance with public health regulations and environmental standards. Candidates must hold relevant TCEQ certifications and have experience in water/wastewater operations. The role requires attention to detail and the ability to work independently in various environments. Competitive pay rates offered.

Qualifications

• Candidates must hold Water Treatment Certification issued by TCEQ.
• Valid Texas Driver’s License is required.
• 1–5+ years of experience in water/wastewater operations depending on certification level.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor potable water treatment systems.
• Ensure compliance with Safe Drinking Water Act and Clean Water Act.
• Conduct preventative maintenance on pumps and valves.

Skills

Water Treatment Certification

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting ability

Knowledge of laboratory testing procedures

Education

High school diploma or GED

Post-secondary education in environmental science or related field

Tools

SCADA systems

Job description

Potable Water & Wastewater Treatment Operator

• Full-time
• Compensation: USD 25 - USD 35 - hourly

WHO ARE WE?

We’ve been serving clients for over 75 years. The companies that began independently and now form Dexterra Group have an outstanding record of supporting the infrastructure and built assets that play a vital role in our society and helping our clients achieve higher performance and productivity. Powered by passionate people, we bring the right teams with the right skills together – offering both experience and regional expertise so companies can operate their day to day, confidently and successfully.

WHAT’S THE JOB?

The Potable Water and Wastewater Treatment Operator is responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient operation, monitoring, and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment systems supporting the workforce accommodations facility. This role ensures that all treated potable water meets public health standards and that wastewater discharge complies with state and federal environmental regulations.

The operator will work in accordance with standards established by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and applicable local authorities.

YOUR WORK WILL INCLUDE

Operations & Monitoring

• Operate and monitor potable water treatment systems (filtration, chlorination, disinfection, storage, and distribution)
• Operate wastewater treatment processes (aeration, clarification, sludge handling, disinfection)
• Perform routine sampling, testing, and analysis (pH, turbidity, chlorine residual, BOD, TSS, etc.)
• Adjust chemical dosing and system controls to maintain compliance
• Rotating shifts, on-call duties, and emergency response requirements

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with:
  • Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA)
  • Clean Water Act (CWA)
  • TCEQ rules and permit requirements (e.g., TPDES permits)
• Maintain accurate operational logs, lab records, and compliance reports

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Conduct preventative maintenance on pumps, valves, blowers, and instrumentation
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical, electrical, and process issues
• Coordinate repairs with maintenance teams and contractors

Health, Safety & Environmental

• Follow OSHA safety standards and site‑specific procedures
• Handle chemicals safely (chlorine, coagulants, polymers, etc.)
• Ensure proper sludge and waste disposal practices
• Exposure to chemicals, noise, and biological hazards

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Required Certifications (Texas – TCEQ)

Candidates must hold the following certifications issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality:

Water Treatment Certification

• Class D (entry‑level) – minimum requirement for small systems
• Class C / B / A – required based on system size and complexity

Additional Licensing & Requirements

• Valid Texas Driver’s License
• Ability to pass background check and drug screening
• Confined space entry and HAZWOPER training (preferred)
• First Aid/CPR certification (preferred)

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED required
• Post‑secondary education in environmental science, engineering technology, or related field preferred
• 1–5+ years of experience in water/wastewater operations (depending on certification level)
• Experience with SCADA systems and automated controls is an asset
• Strong understanding of water and wastewater treatment processes
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
• Knowledge of laboratory testing procedures
• Attention to detail and regulatory compliance
• Ability to work independently and in remote or industrial environments

Dexterra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law.