Wastewater Plant Laboratory Technician​/Operator

Wastewater Plant Laboratory Technician / Operator

Department: Water/Wastewater

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Greenville, MS

Reporting To: Rebecca Bellemin

Compensation: $20.00 - $25.00 / hour

Waggoner Engineering, Inc. is seeking a Wastewater Plant Laboratory Technician / Operator to join our team in Greenville, MS. This role supports our continued growth and offers the opportunity to work on & support meaningful projects alongside a collaborative, experienced team. You’ll have the chance to build your career while contributing to impactful solutions across the communities we serve. The Wastewater Plant Laboratory Technician / Operator is responsible for conducting laboratory analyses, monitoring treatment processes, collecting regulatory compliance samples, and assisting with the daily operation of the wastewater treatment facility.

This position ensures compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations while maintaining accurate laboratory records and supporting optimal plant performance. The individual will work closely with the Plant Manager to monitor treatment efficiency, identify operational issues, and implement process adjustments as needed.

Laboratory Operations

• Perform routine laboratory testing of wastewater, influent, effluent, sludge, and process samples.
• Conduct analyses including, but not limited to:
  • pH
  • Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
  • Total Suspended Solids (TSS)
  • Mixed Liquor Suspended Solids (MLSS)
  • Mixed Liquor Volatile Suspended Solids (MLVSS)
  • Settleability
  • Alkalinity
  • Chlorine residual
  • Nutrient testing (ammonia, nitrate, phosphorus as required)
  • Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD)
  • Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)
• Collect permit-required compliance samples in accordance with approved sampling procedures.
• Prepare and preserve samples for outside laboratory analysis.
• Calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, and inventory of chemicals and supplies.
• Ensure all laboratory procedures follow Standard Methods and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) requirements.

Plant Operations

• Monitor plant operations through SCADA systems, field inspections, and laboratory data.
• Operate pumps, blowers, valves, chemical feed systems, clarifiers, filters, and other treatment equipment.
• Perform routine operational adjustments based on laboratory results and process performance.
• Assist with startup, shutdown, and optimization of treatment processes.
• Monitor sludge handling, solids processing, and dewatering operations.
• Respond to equipment alarms and abnormal operating conditions.
• Assist maintenance personnel by identifying equipment deficiencies and reporting repair needs.

Sampling & Compliance

• Collect regulatory samples in accordance with permit requirements.
• Maintain chain-of-custody documentation.
• Prepare laboratory reports and operational data for regulatory reporting.
• Assist in preparing monthly operating reports (MORs) and Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs).
• Maintain accurate records required by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ), EPA, and other regulatory agencies.

Inspections & Housekeeping

• Perform routine inspections of plant equipment and treatment processes.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Assist with facility housekeeping and grounds maintenance.
• Follow all safety procedures, lockout/tagout requirements, confined space procedures, and PPE requirements.

Communication

• Report laboratory findings, operational concerns, and equipment issues to the Plant Manager.
• Coordinate with maintenance personnel regarding equipment performance.
• Communicate effectively with coworkers, contractors, regulatory inspectors, and management.
• Participate in training and continuing education programs.

Education

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Chemistry, Water/Wastewater Technology, or a related field preferred.

Experience

• One to three years of experience in wastewater treatment plant operations, laboratory analysis, or a related field preferred.
• Experience with activated sludge treatment processes is preferred.

Licenses &…