Wastewater Operator - Temporary 12 Week Position

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under supervision, The Wastewater Treatment Operator is responsible for the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of the wastewater treatment system utilizing Vibratory Shear Enhanced Processing (VSEP) membrane filtration and Reverse Osmosis (RO). The operator will ensure the system operates efficiently, meets environmental compliance requirements, and maintains reliable treatment performance. Additional responsibilities will include water technical operations, preventative maintenance, and support of other site processes as required. We use one of the most advanced horticultural climate control computers in the industry for a fully automated and data driven approach to operate and maintain these systems daily. This position is critical to the success of the greenhouse. The operator plays a critical role in water management, enabling maximum recycling and sustainable use of process water throughout the greenhouse.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operate and monitor VSEP membrane filtration systems and Reverse Osmosis (RO) treatment units.
• Monitor system alarms and respond promptly to operational alerts or abnormal system conditions.
• Calibrate and monitor system parameters including pressure, flow rates, conductivity, pH, ORP, and temperature.
• Perform preventative maintenance on pumps, filters, instrumentation, and treatment equipment to ensure reliable system operation.
• Monitor tank levels, chemical dosing systems, and water storage systems to ensure uninterrupted operation.
• Adjust operational settings to maintain optimal treatment performance and throughput.
• Conduct routine system startups, shutdowns, and operational adjustments.
• Collect and document wastewater samples for analysis and regulatory reporting.
• Manage installation, modification, and repair of moderately complex PVC water systems.
• Record operational data and maintain accurate system logs such as membrane performance trends including flux rates, differential pressure, and recovery efficiency.
• Perform routine inspections of pumps, valves, membranes, sensors, and associated equipment as well as inspecting piping systems, fittings, and valves for leaks, wear, or damage and perform necessary repairs.
• Identify and troubleshooting operational issues including membrane fouling, scaling, or mechanical problems.
• Assist with membrane cleaning procedures (CIP) and replacement as required.
• Prepare and manage chemical solutions used in treatment processes including cleaning chemicals, pH adjustment, and disinfection agents.
• Maintain proper documentation for inspections, maintenance, and regulatory compliance.
• Follow established safety procedures for chemical handling and equipment operation.
• Capable of operating a forklift or other lifts when needed for operational needs.
• Assist with water quality management to ensure permeate water meets facility requirements.
• Support facility Water Technical Systems when required.
• Ability to perform greenhouse HPS/LED lighting scouting and identify issues.
• Assist in developing and improving standard operating procedures (SOPs) for treatment systems.
• Participate in training and knowledge sharing to support operational continuity and team development.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas including treatment rooms, and chemical storage areas.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

• Ability to read and interpret schematics (electrical and plumbing) and safely use a voltmeter, hand tools, and power tools.
• Strong communication skills, stress management, and sense of accountability; must be a responsible and reliable team player with a positive attitude, high level of maturity, and strong work ethic.
• Is well organized with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Ability to lift, carry, and balance up to 75 lbs. (150 lbs. with assistance) with extreme care and caution when working around plants and products.
• Ability to meet physical demands including reaching, climbing, bending, walking, standing, and performing repetitive work.
• Comfortable working in conditions that include heights, hot and cold temperatures, and high-intensity lighting.
• Proficiency with Microsoft applications and ability to interpret operational data in Excel.
• Experience operating industrial wastewater treatment systems preferred.
• Familiarity with membrane filtration technologies such as VSEP, RO, or ultrafiltration systems is highly desirable.
•  Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
•  Ability to read gauges, instrumentation, and system control interfaces.
•  Basic understanding of pumps, valves, and fluid systems.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and operational logs.

REQUIRED EDUCATION:

• Minimum of three (3) years of relevant work experience, including:
• Plumbing experience.
• High School Diploma or GED required; a 2-year technical degree in a related field is strongly preferred.
• Experience working with pumps, piping systems, and treatment equipment preferred.
• Comfortable working in industrial environments, including wet or outdoor conditions.