Wastewater Operator Lead

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS; Bakersfield (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, vision, life insurance

401(k) with company support

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Mileage reimbursement for travel

Job summary

Solution Group is seeking a Wastewater Operator Lead to manage day-to-day operations of industrial wastewater treatment systems and to lead a small team of operators. The role emphasizes hands-on problem solving, safety, and continuous improvement in a demanding environment.

The successful candidate will apply mechanical, biological, and chemical treatment principles, monitor systems, run tests, and support ongoing improvements.

Qualifications

• 2+ years operating or maintaining wastewater treatment facilities or equivalent experience
• Wastewater Operator certification or the ability to obtain within 1 year of hire
• Strong mechanical, biological, and chemical treatment knowledge or willingness to learn
• Experience with lab testing and using results to guide operations
• Experience with preventative maintenance and basic data entry/ reporting
• Ability to read technical documents and procedures
• Strong communication across levels and safety minded

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor wastewater facilities during assigned shift and ensure regulatory compliance
• Lead a small team of operators on daily tasks and shift management
• Use remote monitoring systems to optimize plant performance
• Perform routine inspections, troubleshooting and preventative maintenance
• Collect samples and conduct lab analyses to guide decisions
• Contribute to budgeting, planning, and future improvements
• Ensure safety and PPE compliance in industrial environments
• Collaborate on process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce costs

Skills

2+ years experience

Lab testing

Safety mindset

Communication skills

Education

Wastewater Operator certification

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Description

Turn Complex Wastewater Challenges into Real-World Impact

At Solution Group, we don’t just treat wastewater for our clients. We actively solve some of the toughest industrial water challenges in the country. From dairy processing and rendering plants to large food & beverage facilities, we partner with customers who rely on us to keep mission‑critical systems running safely, efficiently, and in compliance.

We’re growing fast, and we’re looking for a Wastewater Operator Lead who’s eager to take serious ownership, learn deeply, and make a measurable impact in an essential, hands‑on field. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys technical problem‑solving, isn’t afraid of a demanding environment, and wants to build expertise in industrial wastewater treatment with a company that invests in its people.

What You’ll Do

As a Wastewater Operator Lead, you’ll be trusted with the day‑to‑day operation and health of industrial wastewater treatment systems as well as leading a small team of operators through day‑to‑day work! You’ll work both independently and as a leader of a skilled team, applying mechanical, biological, and chemical treatment principles to keep systems running at peak performance.

Your work matters!

Your decisions directly support regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, environmental protection, and customer success.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor wastewater treatment facilities during your assigned shift, ensuring compliance with all state and federal regulations
• Use remote monitoring systems to control and optimize plant performance
• Conduct routine inspections, troubleshooting, and preventative maintenance to maximize up time
• Perform equipment repairs and replacements while maintaining effluent quality standards
• Collect samples and perform laboratory analyses to guide operational decisions
• Support emergency and unplanned maintenance activities when needed
• Track data and performance using computerized systems and spreadsheets
• Provide input on inventory levels, tools, materials, and service needs
• Collaborate on process improvements that increase efficiency and reduce operating costs
• Lead a small team of operators through successful shift management, process monitoring, and compliance.
• Contribute operational insight to budgeting, planning, and future improvements
• Follow all safety, risk management, and PPE requirements in industrial environments

This is a role where your judgment matters, your skills grow quickly, and no two days look the same.

Who You Are

We’re open to candidates inside or outside the wastewater industry who bring the right technical mindset, work ethic, and desire to learn.

We’re transparent: this is gritty, real-world work and that’s exactly what makes it rewarding for the right person.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Real Impact: Your work protects the environment, supports essential industries, and keeps communities running
• Growth & Learning: Hands‑on exposure to advanced industrial wastewater systems with ongoing technical training
• Career Path: Opportunities to expand certifications, deepen expertise, and advance as the company grows
• Supportive Team: Work alongside seasoned professionals who value problem‑solving and continuous improvement
• Competitive Pay & Benefits:
• Competitive base salary + annual bonus eligibility
• Health, dental, vision, life insurance
• 401(k) with company support
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement & referral programMileage reimbursement for travel

Ready to Build Expertise in an Essential Industry?

If you’re looking for hands‑on work, meaningful challenges, and a chance to grow with a rapidly expanding company in wastewater management—we’d love to hear from you.

Requirements

Required / Preferred Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience operating or maintaining a wastewater treatment plant or relevant industrial/mechanical experience
• Wastewater Treatment Operator certification or the ability to obtain one within one year of hire (we support this) required
• Working knowledge of mechanical systems, biological and chemical treatment processes, or a strong willingness to learn
• Comfort performing lab testing and using results to guide operational adjustments
• Experience with preventative maintenance programs and basic computer systems (Microsoft Office, data entry, reporting)
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, drawings, and procedures
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work with people at all levels
• Safety-focused mindset with an understanding of industrial hazards and controls

Physical & Schedule Requirements

• Willingness to work a flexible schedule that may include nights, weekends, and holidays
• Ability to climb ladders, lift up to 50 pounds, and work in physically demanding conditions
• Comfort working around industrial equipment, chemicals, noise, and odor using appropriate PPE