Wastewater Operator

Allen Harim Foods; Harbeson (DE); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Allen Harim Foods is seeking a laboratory technician to perform technical laboratory work at the wastewater treatment plant and potable water system. You will conduct tests, sample drinking water, and maintain meticulous records to support efficient operation and maintenance.

The role requires knowledge of laboratory techniques, chemistry, and sanitary testing, with hands-on experience in a production plant environment. Ability to lift and work in confined spaces is needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience with wastewater/lab procedures preferred.
• Post‑high school chemistry coursework with lab work accepted.

Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory tests on wastewater at various treatment stages.
• Sample potable water from multiple faucets and stages.
• Record test results and maintain logs of plant operations.
• Operate pumps, motors, and related equipment; basic repairs.
• Ensure safety and compliance with lab procedures.
• Follow technical instructions and interpret data for plant operations.

Skills

Laboratory techniques

Bacteriology basics

Wastewater chemistry

Equipment operation

Test interpretation

Education

High school diploma

Chemistry course

Lab testing program course

Job description

This job involves responsibility for performing technical laboratory work at the Allen Harim wastewater treatment plant and potable water treatment system. All results are used for the efficient operation and maintenance of the wastewater plant and potable water system.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Supports Allen Harim’s Vision, Mission and Values.
• Knowledge and implementation of all aspects of company’s sampling and testing programs.
• Perform and interpret laboratory tests and the analysis of wastewater at various stages of treatment.
• Sampling for 11 potable water faucets located in the Harbeson Processing Plant.
• Sampling for 5 stages of treatment and final effluent for the wastewater treatment plant.
• Performs physical examinations of untreated and treated wastewater for suspended and per cent solids;
• Performs chemical oxygen demand (COD) tests on both untreated and treated wastewater;
• Performs chemical tests on treated drinking water samples for phosphate, zinc, copper and pH;
• Performs nitrite, ammonia as nitrogen, total phosphorus, and alkalinity tests;
• Prepares and standardizes chemical reagents for laboratory analyses;
• Determines chlorine residual of plant effluent;
• Maintains records of all tests performed and keeps logs of plant operations;
• Starts and stops pumps, motors, air compressors, and related machinery and equipment;
• Makes minor repairs to machinery and equipment;
• Records readings from meters and gauges.
• Performs custodial duties in connection with maintenance of buildings and grounds
• Ability to understand and follow technical instructions; ability to relate test data to wastewater and potable water treatment; dependability; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
• Able to lift 65lbs
• All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Note for level:

• Basic: Incumbent is able to use their knowledge/skill with support by more experienced individuals.
• Advanced: Incumbent is able to independently use their knowledge/skill.
• Expert: Incumbent is able to train others on their knowledge/skill.
• Possess superior interpersonal and communication skills.

Education and/or Experience

• High school or equivalency diploma recognized by the State of Delaware.
• Experience as a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator is desirable
• One (1) year of experience performing technical laboratory procedures in a public health or water or wastewater analysis laboratory;

OR:

• One (1) year of post‑high school education, including successful completion of at least one course in elementary chemistry, which shall have included at least two (2) hours of laboratory work in conjunction with the required lectures;

OR:

• Successful completion of an accepted Laboratory Testing and Analysis course offered by Delaware Technical Community College;

Knowledge/Skills

• Excellent knowledge of modern laboratory techniques, practices, and equipment used in the operation of a wastewater treatment plant and potable water treatment systems.
• Knowledge of the principles of bacteriology, biology, chemistry and physical examination of wastewater as they relate to wastewater analysis.
• Knowledge of the practices used and the equipment required in the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant; skill in the operation and care of laboratory apparatus equipment, pumps, valves, and related mechanical and electrical equipment;
• Skilled in the performance and interpretation of laboratory tests and procedures; ability to understand and follow technical instructions;

Supervisory Responsibilities

N/A.

Physical Demands

• Must have the ability to enter all areas of the plant and offices.
• Must be able to climb and crawl in confined spaces.
• Ability to deal with variant temperatures both hot and cold.
• Must be able to lift up 40lbs or more

Work environment is a production plant environment; must be able to be exposed to a variety of odors as well as presenting with hot and cold temperatures and a wet environment. Safety protection is provided.