Job DescriptionJob Description
The Waste Treatment Operator ensures that all wastewater generated by APS's plating and finishing processes is treated properly and consistently, so that the company meets all applicable federal, state, and local environmental regulations and permit requirements. This role is a key line of defense in protecting APS's environmental compliance record and community standing.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
• Maintain a working knowledge of all applicable environmental statutes, regulations, and APS's wastewater discharge permit.
• Treat wastewater in accordance with established work instructions, batch sheets, and treatment protocols.
• Monitor and adjust pH, chemical dosing, and treatment parameters to keep effluent within permitted limits.
• Inspect and maintain treatment tanks, pumps, valves, and related equipment to ensure they remain in safe operating condition.
• Operate the filter press and sludge dryer and manage sludge handling and disposal in compliance with hazardous waste procedures.
• Complete required sampling, testing, and recordkeeping accurately and on schedule, including daily, weekly, and monthly inspection logs.
• Properly label, store, and manage hazardous waste and hazardous waste accumulation areas.
• Complete all required regulatory forms, discharge monitoring reports, and internal documentation in a timely and accurate manner.
• Wear and properly use all required personal protective equipment (PPE) and supplied protective wear.
• Keep the treatment area clean, organized, and free of safety hazards.
• Respond promptly and correctly to alarms, spills, or upset conditions using emergency shutdown and emergency response procedures.
• Communicate proactively with the Plant Manager on system status, upcoming maintenance needs, or compliance concerns.
Skills
• Physical: Ability to lift, carry, and move materials up to 50 lbs.; ability to stand, bend, and work around chemical processing equipment for extended periods.
• Verbal: Must be able to communicate clearly with supervisors, coworkers, and, when applicable, regulatory representatives.
• Written: Must be able to accurately complete logs, inspection sheets, discharge reports, and other required documentation.
Knowledge
• General mechanical aptitude for operating and troubleshooting automated treatment equipment and processes.
• Understanding of applicable environmental statutes, regulations, and permit conditions.
• Working knowledge of chemical handling, hazardous waste management, and Safety Data Sheets (SDS).
• Understanding of pH chemistry and its role in wastewater treatment.
Education & Experience
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Bilingual preferred (English / Spanish)
• Wastewater treatment experience is preferred but not required; on-the-job training and certification support will be provided.
• Wastewater or industrial treatment certification is a plus but not required at hire.
• Familiarity with current WWT permits
• Familiar with operational slug plan and/or SPCC.
• Familiar with DMRs, CMRs, and IWQs.
• Experience with preparing waste hauler manifests (hazardous and non-hazardous).
• Familiar with pH calibration logs.
• Familiar with operation logs (if applicable).
• Experience in preparing TOMP approval letters.
• Familiarity with duly authorized representative letters.
• Experience with filling out Tier 1 and Tier 2 reports.
Expectations
• Follow directions and established procedures consistently.
• Be on time every day and prepared to work.
• Report any unsafe or potentially hazardous conditions immediately.
• Treat fellow team members and supervisors with respect.
• Ensure that all legal requirements — reports, labeling, recordkeeping, and permits — are met without exception.
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