Waste Water Operator I

Darling Ingredients repurposes and recycles materials from the animal agriculture and food industries—transforming them into essential ingredients that feed animals, fertilize crops, fuel planes, and nourish people. We operate a global family of brands and businesses spanning more than 260 facilities in over 15 countries, making entire industries less wasteful and more sustainable.

About the role

The Wastewater Operator controls water flows and processes through plant equipment and biological systems. Performs tests, maintenance, and other duties to ensure proper operation of all wastewater-related equipment.

Day Shift (3 days per week / 4 days per week—rotating).

Responsibilities

• Proper operation of the evaporator, plant skimmer, DAF, disinfection system, scrubbers, ancillary equipment, and cooling towers.
• Chemical inventory and addition throughout wastewater treatment processes.
• Perform wastewater tests as needed.
• Control flows throughout wastewater treatment processes.
• Daily cleaning of foot valves and flow meters at pump stations.
• Monitor MBBRs, aerators, and mixers.
• Service and lubricate pumps and gearboxes as needed.
• Assist maintenance with projects or work in the area of responsibility.
• Apply chemicals to sustain a minimum of a 24-hour period.
• Dump a container of grease solids using a forklift.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Minimum 1-year prior experience in a rendering facility or production environment.
• Willing to obtain wastewater certificate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Self-starter who stays busy with constructive work with little supervision.
• Good math skills.
• Good oral communication skills.
• Good penmanship.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off

Working Conditions

The role involves exposure to the following conditions:

• Unpleasant or disagreeable physical environments (high noise level, strong odors, heat, and cold).
• Biohazardous conditions.
• Toxic or caustic chemicals requiring attention to safety considerations.
• Electrical hazards and risk of electrical shock.
• Handling or working with potentially dangerous equipment.
• Occasional travel to offsite locations.

Physical Demands

• Constantly (at least 51% of the time):
  • Walk: Move about inside/outside the work location.
  • Use hands to finger, handle, or feel: Operate machinery and office equipment.
  • Talk, hear, taste, smell: Effectively communicate and detect hazardous conditions.
• Frequently (21% to 50% of the time):
  • Stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl: Maintain equipment, including under desks and in confined spaces.
  • Climb or balance: Ascend/descend ladders.
• Weight and Force Demands:
  • Frequently lift up to 10 pounds.
• Vision Demands: No special vision requirements.