Wastewater Operator - Baton Rouge, LA

At Jacobs, we don’t settle - always looking beyond to raise the bar and deliver with excellence. We apply our expertise and knowledge as we look into the future with great optimism and focus. We don’t settle until we give our best and know that we’re making a difference.

Looking for a career that makes a real impact every day? Join our team as a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator and play a vital role in protecting public health, preserving our environment, and supporting essential community services. Based in Baton Rouge, LA, this rewarding position offers the opportunity to work with advanced treatment technologies, solve real-world challenges, and contribute directly to the delivery of safe, reliable wastewater services.

As a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, you will be part of a dedicated team responsible for operating and maintaining critical infrastructure that serves our community, the City of Baton Rouge and the Parish of East Baton Rouge. Whether you are an experienced operator or looking to grow your career in the utility industry, this position provides hands-on experience, professional development opportunities, and a clear path for advancement. If you are motivated by meaningful work, enjoy problem-solving, and take pride in making a difference, we invite you to join us in this essential and rewarding profession. You'll have a direct impact on environmental protection, public health, and the quality of life in the communities we serve. This is more than an operations position. It is an opportunity to build a meaningful career, develop valuable technical skills, work with advanced treatment technologies, and be part of a team that delivers an essential public service every day.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

In this role, every task contributes to a larger purpose: protecting public health, preserving the environment, and ensuring reliable wastewater services for the community. Operators are trusted professionals who use technology, technical expertise, and teamwork to keep critical treatment systems running safely and efficiently.

• Operate and monitor wastewater treatment processes to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant plant operations.

• Use plant control systems, instrumentation, and field inspections to optimize treatment performance and maintain regulatory compliance.

• Collect samples, perform laboratory testing, and evaluate process data to support operational decision-making.

• Troubleshoot operational issues and make process adjustments to improve efficiency and system reliability.

• Inspect, operate, and assist in maintaining pumps, motors, blowers, treatment units, and other essential facility equipment.

• Monitor plant performance indicators, record operational data, and maintain accurate logs and reports.

• Respond to alarms, equipment malfunctions, and emergency situations with professionalism and sound judgment.

• Perform preventive maintenance activities that help extend equipment life and minimize downtime.

• Collaborate with supervisors, maintenance personnel, and fellow operators to achieve operational goals and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Utilize safety-first practices and comply with all environmental, health, and safety regulations.

• Support facility housekeeping, grounds maintenance, and overall site appearance to maintain a professional work environment.

• Participate in training, certification advancement, and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and career growth.

• Contribute ideas and solutions that improve plant efficiency, reliability, and service to the community.

• Assist with special projects, process optimization efforts, and capital improvement initiatives as assigned.

As an essential function of the position and as a business necessity, this role requires regular travel by motor vehicle to client sites, project locations, and other work-related destinations in connection with the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities. Accordingly, a valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record are required for this position. The OMFS business uses Telematics & Dash Cameras with our fleet of vehicles and all new hires will require a Telematics acknowledgement to be signed.

Bring your team-focus, adaptability, and commitment to excellence, and we’ll help you grow what drives you - and deliver the world’s most challenging Operations Management projects, together.

#ourjacobs #omfs #challengeaccepted #LI-LH2

• High school diploma or GED.

• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Louisiana Department of Health Wastewater Operator certification.

• Basic knowledge of mechanical equipment, pumps, motors, and treatment processes.

• Ability to read and interpret operating procedures, technical manuals, and safety regulations.

• Proficiency in basic computer applications and data entry.

Ideally, You'll Also Have

• Current Louisiana Wastewater Operator certification (Class 1, 2, 3, or 4).

• Previous experience in wastewater treatment plant operations.

• Experience with SCADA systems, process control, and laboratory testing.

• Mechanical, electrical, or industrial maintenance experience.

• Knowledge of state and federal wastewater regulations.

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Strong communication and documentation skills.

• Commitment to safety, environmental compliance, and customer service.

• Ability to perform mathematical calculations related to wastewater treatment operations.

Working Conditions

Safety is a core value at Jacobs. We are committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all employees. This position will spend a substantial amount of time performing safety sensitive labor or services.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• Ability to walk, climb stairs and ladders, kneel, crouch, and lift up to 50 pounds.

• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Ability to respond to emergency situations and work overtime when necessary.

Jacobs is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, medical condition, marital or domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression and transgender status, mental disability or physical disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship, low-income status or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable law. Learn more about your rights under Federal EEO laws and supplemental language.