Water/wastewater Treatment Plant Operator – Night Shift
Company: Lehigh County Authority
Job Location: Allentown PA, 18102 United States
Job Overview
You already know how critical this work is – clean water, safe communities, and systems that simply can’t fail. As a Treatment Plant Operator at Lehigh County Authority in Allentown, PA, you’ll take the next step in your career, leading plant operations and helping guide operators-in‑training, while ensuring our water and wastewater systems run safely, efficiently, and in compliance every day. This is work that matters. Every adjustment you make, every system you monitor, and every decision you guide helps protect public health and the environment – while supporting and mentoring the next generation of operators!
Responsibilities
- Operate and oversee treatment systems across water filtration and wastewater facilities, ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient performance of pumps, motors, meters, boilers, and sludge processing equipment.
- Monitor control systems and instrumentation, including gauges and electrical control boards, identifying malfunctions and making real‑time adjustments to maintain optimal performance.
- Lead and support Operator‑in‑Training staff, providing direction, guidance, and on‑the‑job instruction to maintain consistent, high‑quality operations.
- Start and regulate pumps and valves, interpret flow data, and log system readings using both computerized systems and manual records to ensure operational accuracy and continuity.
- Collect and analyze process samples, adding treatment chemicals in precise quantities to maintain water quality and meet regulatory standards.
- Document equipment issues and coordinate maintenance, escalating complex problems and ensuring clear communication with supervisors and maintenance teams.
- Rotate between multiple treatment facilities, expanding your technical expertise across different systems and operational environments.
Requirements
- Must possess a valid PA Class A Water or Class A Wastewater Operator Certification, with ability to obtain required subclasses.
- 2+ years of experience operating or supporting a water or wastewater treatment facility.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks including climbing stairs and ladders.
- Willingness to work a rotating night shift schedule (6:00 PM – 6:00 AM), including weekends and holidays.
- A strong working knowledge of treatment processes, equipment operation, and routine maintenance practices.
Additional Qualifications
- The ability to read and interpret gauges, meters, and control systems accurately.
- Comfort using SCADA and computer‑based monitoring systems.
- A proactive, safety‑focused mindset and the ability to identify and respond to operational issues in real time.
- Strong communication skills to guide and collaborate with team members across shifts.
Benefits and Perks
- Starting pay: $31.44/hour
- No healthcare costs – comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage fully paid for you and your eligible dependents with no employee paid premiums.
- Generous paid vacation, sick time, personal days, and holidays.
- Company‑paid life and disability insurance plus access to two retirement plans – a pension through the Pennsylvania Municipal Retirement Plan and a 457 plan.
- Flexible Spending Accounts and voluntary benefits available.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
At LCA, we pride ourselves on being an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other protected status. Employment decisions at LCA are based on your qualifications, merit, and the needs of our business.