Solids Handling Operator Apprentice - HWTP- 26-113

Job Announcement No: 26-113 | Vacant Position(s): 1 | Department: Hanahan Water Treatment Plant | Applications Accepted through Sunday, September 6, 2026

About the role

Under limited supervision, is responsible for optimized residuals control, process, logistics and minor procurement. Directly involved in all aspects of plant operation and maintenance that impacts residuals (solids) production and processing. Monitors condition of all solids related equipment and coordinates with maintenance planner to ensure that critical components are functional at all times. Ensures critical chemicals are available and ensures NPDES compliance parameters are met (HWTP).

Responsibilities

• Responsible for residuals treatment and disposal including sludge hauling and tipping at a designated landfill.
• Maintain WIMS log.
• Track all drying activities and report monthly on savings/issues.
• Responsible for vehicle inspection and logs, DOT paperwork, routine preventative maintenance and coordinating with Vehicle Shop for major maintenance.
• Operate and maintain the solids handling plant, including decant tanks, gravity thickeners, NPDES, pump stations, chemical systems, storage tanks, mechanical dewatering equipment, transportation equipment, and all ancillary equipment.
• Communicate with Process Control and Maintenance supervisors to coordinate sedimentation basin draining/cleaning activities for residuals processing.
• Coordinate corrective maintenance activities on residuals plant equipment with maintenance using computerized maintenance management system.
• Ensure NPDES compliance.
• Support process control operations during personnel shortages/emergencies.
• Create and update pertinent standard operating instructions as necessary.
• Order chemicals as needed.
• Ensure compliance with all pertinent regulations associated with solids processing and disposal.
• Participate in intra/inter departmental cross training.
• Prepare reports and logs documenting operations activities, maintenance activities, daily timesheets, standard operating instructions, and data for annual and periodic reports (e.g., land application report, EPA solids disposal certification).
• Provide emergency response support for treatment and solids processing problems.
• May be required to work 12-hour shifts (day and/or night, including weekends) in emergencies or to cover for vacation/sickness.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Frequently positions self to use up to 50 lbs of force to move objects.
• Ability to reach and pull to secure watertight trailer tailgate with turnbuckles.
• Must be able to connect/disconnect tractors and trailers.
• Ability to make visual observations of load conditions.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing, verbally, and with a 2-way radio, including comprehension of complex oral and written instructions.
• Ability to make fine discriminations in sound, such as when adjusting equipment.
• Ability to convey detailed instructions to other workers accurately, loudly, and quickly.
• Ability to make visual observations of all basins and equipment, obtain instrument readings, collect samples, and field test readings from numerous sample points.
• Must be able to maneuver large valve operator wheels and chain mechanisms.
• Ability to lift, carry, and/or pour 50-pound bags of dry chemicals from a height of four feet.
• Using upper extremities to exert force in order to draw, drag, haul, or tug objects in sustained motion (occasionally greater than 50 lbs, requiring two-person operation).
• Using upper extremities to press against something with steady force in order to thrust forward, downward, or outward.
• Routinely ascend/descend ladders, stairs, and ramps as high as three stories.
• Ability to work at elevated heights as needed.
• Constantly positions self to move and traverse long distances for inspections of treatment plant with varied topography.
• Works in internal/external environmental conditions, subject to atmospheric conditions affecting the respiratory system or skin (e.g., fumes, odors, dust, gases).
• Required to wear personnel protective equipment (PPE), including respirators and/or self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
• Required to work with chemicals used in water and wastewater treatment processes.
• Ability to navigate restricted spaces such as chemical pits and spiral stairwells.
• Ability to read and comprehend technical reports, plans, and specifications.
• Ability to write technical reports.
• Must be able to wear PPE as defined in the Job Safety Analysis (JSA).

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Must obtain operator's licenses from the South Carolina Environmental Certification Board as follows:
  • Solids Handling Operator Apprentice: must possess or obtain within twelve (12) months of employment the SC “D” Water or “D” Biological Wastewater License.
  • Solids Handling Operator I: must possess within twenty-four (24) months of employment the SC “C” Water or “C” Biological Wastewater License.
  • Solids Handling Operator II: must possess within thirty-six (36) months of employment the SC “B” Water or “B” Biological Wastewater License.
  • Solids Handling Operator III: must possess the SC “A” Water or “A” Biological Wastewater License.
  • Solids Handling Journeyman Operator: must possess the SC “A” Water or “A” Biological Wastewater License and complete all applicable Journeyman Requirements.
• Computer skills with emphasis on SCADA systems and Windows-based software.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Prior work record indicating dependability and conscientiousness.

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid South Carolina Driver’s license required.
• Commercial Driver’s License Class A (CDL) required for sludge hauling and tipping within twelve months of hire. Failure to obtain CDL Class A or pass exams within the specified timeframe may result in termination.

Training

• OSHA and Departmental safety training as required.
• Skills-based training.
• Standard Operating Instruction (SOI) per department requirements.
• ISO 14001 standards for department and company.
• See Department Competency and Training Matrix for this position.

Pay

Salary Range: $45,760.00 ($22.00/hr.) - $68,640.00 ($33.00/hr.) | Hiring Range: $45,760.00 ($22.00/hr.) - $57,200.00 ($27.50/hr.) | Grade: 105

Schedule

Hours: 7:00 am – 3:30 pm. May be required to work 12-hour shifts (day and/or night, including weekends) in emergencies or to cover for vacation/sickness.

Career Path

Eligibility for promotion to various positions throughout the Commission depends upon individual qualifications. Potential career paths include:

• Operations Shift Supervisor
• Maintenance Supervisor
• Process Control Support Supervisor