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Chief Wastewater Operator Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

... wastewater treatment facilities and power generation and industrial plants. Projects range from ... Bowen Engineering Corporation is a wholly owned operating subsidiary of BEC Holding Company, which ...

Quality and Environmental, Health, Manager (QEC Manager) REPORTS TO: CEO _____ RESPONSIBILITIES ... wastewater treatment systems to ensure procedures and operating equipment limits have been reviewed ...

Chief Wastewater Operator information

What is a chief wastewater operator?

Chief Wastewater Operators are responsible for overseeing the daily operations and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities. They manage a team of operators, ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and monitor systems to ensure the safe and efficient treatment of wastewater. Their duties often include supervising staff, troubleshooting equipment issues, preparing reports, and coordinating with local and state agencies. Chief Wastewater Operators play a critical role in protecting public health and the environment by ensuring that wastewater is properly treated before being released or reused.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a chief wastewater operator?

To thrive as a Chief Wastewater Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of wastewater treatment processes, regulatory compliance, and typically a state-issued operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory analysis equipment, and maintenance management software is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set top operators apart in managing teams and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure regulatory compliance, operational efficiency, and the protection of public health and the environment.

What challenges do chief wastewater operators face when managing plant operations and staff?

Chief Wastewater Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining compliance with evolving environmental regulations, ensuring equipment is functioning optimally, and managing a diverse team with varying experience levels. They must frequently troubleshoot unexpected mechanical or process issues while balancing budget constraints and resource allocation. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as the role requires close collaboration with engineers, regulatory agencies, and plant personnel to keep operations running smoothly and safely.

What is the difference between Chief Wastewater Operator vs Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectChief Wastewater OperatorWastewater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification and additional supervisory credentialsRequires a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Certification
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple shifts, manages staff, and ensures complianceOperates and monitors equipment in the treatment plant
ResponsibilitiesSupervises staff, manages plant operations, and handles complex issuesPerforms daily operational tasks and routine maintenance

The main difference is that the Chief Wastewater Operator has supervisory responsibilities, oversees plant operations, and manages staff, while the Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator focuses on daily operational tasks and equipment operation. Both roles require certification, but the chief role involves leadership and oversight functions.

How much do wastewater operators make in the US?

Wastewater operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Advanced operators with certifications and specialized skills can earn higher wages, often exceeding $80,000 annually. Salaries may also vary based on the size and complexity of the treatment facility and shift differentials.

How much do wastewater operators make?

Wastewater operators in Oregon typically earn an average annual salary of around $60,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the facility. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with advanced certifications can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials are also common in this field.

Where do chief wastewater operators make the most money?

Chief wastewater operators tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a high cost of living and strong environmental regulations, such as certain metropolitan areas or states with advanced infrastructure. Salary levels are also influenced by experience, certifications, and the size of the facility they manage.
Infographic showing various Chief Wastewater Operator job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Project Surveyor (Survey Crew Chief)

Actalent

Indianapolis, IN

$35 - $45/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Project Surveyor (Survey Crew Chief)

Location: Indianapolis, IN

Pay: $35.00 - $45.00/hour (Based on Experience)

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Project Surveyor (Survey Crew Chief) to join a growing surveying and engineering team in Indianapolis. This position will support a variety of municipal infrastructure, water, wastewater, and land development projects throughout Indiana.

The Project Surveyor will primarily be responsible for performing topographic surveys, easement and right-of-way work, structural measure downs, and other field survey activities that support engineering design projects. This role works closely with licensed surveyors, project managers, and engineers to collect accurate field data and ensure successful project delivery.

Unlike many surveying positions, this role is focused on supporting engineering design efforts and municipal infrastructure projects rather than construction staking activities.

This position is approximately 90% field work and 10% office work.

Responsibilities
  • Perform topographic surveys to gather elevation and boundary data for engineering and development projects.
  • Assist with easement and right-of-way surveys, including identifying and documenting property boundaries.
  • Perform structural measure downs and collect detailed measurements of existing infrastructure such as manholes, inlets, lift stations, and other utility structures.
  • Operate Trimble survey equipment including GPS units, total stations, and data collectors.
  • Prepare field notes, photographs, and survey documentation for project teams and licensed surveyors.
  • Process and organize field data for engineering and surveying teams.
  • Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and survey professionals to support project requirements.
  • Travel to project sites throughout Indiana and support surveying efforts for multiple offices as needed.
  • Maintain survey equipment and adhere to safety procedures while working in the field.
Required Qualifications
  • Minimum of 3 years of field surveying experience.
  • Survey Crew Chief experience or the ability to perform survey work independently.
  • Experience operating survey equipment and collecting accurate field data.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Ability to travel to project sites and stay overnight when required.
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and site conditions.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience using Trimble GPS equipment, total stations, and data collectors.
  • Experience with Trimble Business Center (TBC).
  • Experience processing survey field data and importing data into Civil 3D.
  • Ability to create surfaces and perform additional survey drafting functions in Civil 3D.
  • Associate degree or coursework in Surveying, Civil Engineering Technology, or a related field.
Travel Requirements
  • Approximately 80% of projects allow employees to return home daily.
  • Occasional overnight travel may be required depending on project location and schedule.
  • Overnight assignments can range from a few days to several weeks depending on project needs.
  • Management makes every effort to minimize overnight travel whenever possible.
  • Company vehicle provided.
  • Hotel accommodations provided for overnight travel.
  • $45/day per diem provided for overnight assignments.
Why Join Us?
  • Competitive pay: $35-$45/hour based on experience
  • Company vehicle provided
  • Primarily utility, water, wastewater, and municipal infrastructure projects
  • No construction staking responsibilities
  • Work in one-person and two-person survey crews
  • Support unique projects for municipal and public-sector clients
  • Strong long-term career growth opportunities
  • Annual performance reviews and salary increases
  • Year-end bonus opportunities
  • Profit-sharing program
  • Overtime opportunities available
  • Four-day workweek schedule on most projects
Work Schedule
  • Primarily Monday through Thursday (4 x 10-hour days)
  • Occasional Friday work may be required based on project demands
  • Typical work week averages 40-45 hours
  • Approximately 90% field work and 10% office work

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Indianapolis, IN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $45.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Indianapolis,IN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 28, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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