Facility Operator Trainee

About the company

Essential Utilities, Inc. delivers safe, clean, reliable water, wastewater, and natural-gas services that improve quality of life for individuals, families, and communities. Operating as the Aqua (water and wastewater) and the Peoples and Delta (natural gas) brands, Essential serves approximately 5.5 million people across 10 states. The company is committed to sustainable growth, operational excellence, a superior customer experience, and premier employer status—including a competitive and comprehensive benefits package and career-growth opportunities. Aqua is a steward of natural lands, protecting more than 7,600 acres of forests and other habitats throughout its footprint.

About the role

This Facility Operator Trainee position supports the operation of wastewater treatment facilities, lift stations, booster stations, distribution systems, and the wastewater collection system under the direction of the Field Supervisor.

Responsibilities

• Maintains equipment at assigned wastewater production facilities and booster stations.
• Maintains equipment at wastewater treatment facilities and lift stations.
• Operates and maintains sewer collection systems, including collection mains and pump stations.
• Troubleshoots and repairs service piping.
• Performs routine water-quality analysis in accordance with established processes and procedures.
• Makes operational adjustments to comply with state and federal water-quality standards.
• Adjusts chemical treatment to ensure water quality meets standards.
• Calculates various ratios and dosages.
• Completes customer-service work orders, updates and maintains system documentation, and closes work orders per department policies.
• Assists with other tasks or projects as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Valid U.S. driver’s license; company pool vehicle provided for work purposes only.
• Must obtain a Class-B CDL with Tanker and Air-Brake endorsements within 90 days of company-sponsored hands-on CDL training.
• Must obtain a CDL permit and U.S. DOT medical card within 90 days of hire.
• Must pass either a Water or Wastewater license general examination within 18 months of employment.

Skills

• Basic computer/tablet proficiency, including database, spreadsheet, and word-processing programs.
• Ability to read, understand, and accurately follow written and verbal operating instructions.
• Mathematical ability to perform calculations for ratios, dosages, and volumetric requirements.
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills.
• Familiarity with wastewater-pollution prevention and understanding of plant processes through computer-controlled equipment.
• Team player able to work effectively in a multi-tasking environment.

Career progression

• Trainee (Entry Level): Obtain either a Class 4 water or Class 4 wastewater license within 18 months.
• Facility Operator I: Minimum license requirement of Class 4 water or Class 4 wastewater.
• Facility Operator II: Minimum license requirement of Class 4 water and Class 4 wastewater.
• Facility Operator III: Minimum license requirement of Class 3 water and Class 3 wastewater.

Pay

Starting hourly rate: $30.00 per hour. Compensation may increase based on applicable licenses, certifications, and relevant experience in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the union.