Wastewater Operator B - 1st shift

Perdue Farms, Inc.; Milford (DE); On-site; USD 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Perdue Farms, Inc. is seeking a Wastewater Operator B to support the pre-treatment system and maintain wastewater quality within regulatory standards.

You will monitor system performance, perform preventive maintenance, conduct laboratory testing, manage chemical handling, and troubleshoot equipment to minimize downtime. This role partners with maintenance and operations to protect the environment, uphold safety standards, and drive continuous improvement in a fast-paced facility.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• 1–2 years wastewater experience.
• DNREC Wastewater Facility Operator License Class 1 or higher.
• Valid Driver's License required.
• Forklift and pallet jack certification via company training.

Responsibilities

• Ensure waste enters trailers and/or tankers properly and prevent overloading.
• Monitor wastewater released to the city and adjust chemicals and concentrations as needed.
• Perform preventive maintenance and cleaning to maintain equipment in peak condition.
• Record and log all required data and completed work.
• Adhere to safety requirements and use of PPE; report unsafe acts or conditions.
• Proactively troubleshoot issues and assess potential mechanical failures.
• Perform laboratory tests to monitor pre-treatment effectiveness and record results.
• Move, back, park, and load trailers and tankers.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas.

Skills

Reading, writing, math

Analytical skills

Safety-conscious

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

1-2 years wastewater experience

DNREC Wastewater Facility Operator License Class 1+

Valid Driver's License

Forklift & pallet jack certification

Tools

Laboratory testing equipment

Chemical handling knowledge

Job description

Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.

Summary

Drive environmental compliance and operational excellence as a Wastewater Operator B with Perdue. In this critical role, you will help ensure the efficient operation of the pre-treatment system while maintaining wastewater quality within regulatory standards and supporting the overall success of the facility. You will monitor system performance, perform preventative maintenance, conduct laboratory testing, manage chemical handling processes, and proactively troubleshoot equipment and process issues to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency. Working closely with maintenance and operations teams, you will play an essential role in protecting the environment, maintaining safety standards, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives. This opportunity is ideal for a dependable, safety-focused professional who enjoys hands-on work, solving technical challenges, and making a meaningful impact on a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Schedule

Monday through Friday, 6:00am-3:00pm

Principal Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Ensure waste enters trailers and/or tankers properly and prevent overloading.
• Monitor wastewater released to the city and adjust chemicals and concentrations as needed.
• Make timely assessments to maintain proper system function.
• Perform preventive maintenance and cleaning, including tankers and assigned areas, to maintain equipment in peak operating condition.
• Perform routine maintenance duties and maintenance-related projects.
• Record and log all required data, collected information, and completed work.
• Adhere to all safety requirements, including use of personal protective equipment and reporting unsafe acts or conditions, including lockout/tagout procedures.
• Proactively troubleshoot issues and assess potential mechanical failures, taking corrective action as needed.
• Understand hazards associated with chemical handling and basic reactions related to cross-contamination.
• Transfer bulk chemicals from transport tankers to bulk tanks and offload chemicals from delivery vehicles.
• Perform laboratory tests to monitor the effectiveness of the pre-treatment system and record results.
• Move, back, park, and load trailers and tankers.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas free of loose materials and equipment.
• Maintain system performance at all times.
• Gather and record operational data and job-related information.
• Handle various types and volumes of chemicals.
• Perform mechanical tasks associated with system operation.
• Collect samples for laboratory analysis.

Minimum Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• 1-2 years of wastewater experience.
• Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) Wastewater Facility Operator License Class 1 or higher.
• Demonstrate reading, writing, math, and analytical skills.
• Possess a valid Driver's License.
• Obtain pallet jack and forklift certification through company training and testing.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Demonstrate mechanical skills.
• Experience in chemical handling.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Factors

• Stand and/or walk for up to 8 hours on wet, dry, moist, and/or greasy floors.
• Work on surfaces including concrete, metal, or plastic grating for extended periods.
• Climb and work from various ladders.
• Work in temperatures below 40°F and above 90°F with up to 100% humidity.
• Work in noise levels up to 110 decibels and varying light intensity levels.
• Perform bending, twisting, lifting, reaching, sitting, and grasping with varying repetition, weight, and positioning.
• Work around chlorinated water, ammonia vapors, dry ice, detergents, oils, salts, and other chemicals common to poultry processing.
• Use required personal protective and safety equipment.

Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.