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Chief Wastewater Operator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Project Manager

Washington, DC · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

... wastewater and water field services. Their expertise includes routine maintenance, condition ... Develop standard operating procedures, production standards, and QC protocols for the meter ...

City of Rockville, MD

Senior Civil Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$86K - $141K/yr

... wastewater, storm drainage, stormwater management, sediment control, roadway, sidewalk, and other ... Assists in preparation of the Engineering Division operating and Capital Improvements Plan budgets

City of Rockville

Senior Civil Engineer

Rockville, MD · On-site

$86K - $141K/yr

... wastewater, storm drainage, stormwater management, sediment control, roadway, sidewalk, and other ... Assists in preparation of the Engineering Division operating and Capital Improvements Plan budgets ...

All JobsChief Wastewater Operator JobsChief Wastewater Operator Jobs in Reston, VA

Chief Wastewater Operator information

See Reston, VA salary details

$34.3K

$129.4K

$208.6K

How much do chief wastewater operator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief wastewater operator in Reston, VA is $129,430.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,800.00 and $151,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Chief Wastewater Operator jobs in Reston, VA?

For Chief Wastewater Operator jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chief Wastewater Operator jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Wastewater Operator jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Chief Wastewater Operator jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Chief Wastewater Operator job openings:

Chief Wastewater Operator jobs near you

Chief of Wastewater Innovation (Anywhere in US)

HireOTS

Washington, DC • On-site

$24.50 - $33.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Wastewater Innovation Leadership Position

The most reputable Water/Wastewater Infrastructure and Treatment Civil Consulting firm in the US & Canada, 100% employee owned for close to 100 years, offers full benefits: Health, Vision, Dental, and 401K match, sign on bonus, paid OT and annual performance bonus.

Qualifications:
  • MS in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field (PhD is a +)
  • 10 or more years of experience in municipal wastewater liquids and/or solids processes
  • 5 or more years of experience leading a group of five or more individuals
  • Extensive knowledge of liquids and solids wastewater treatment processes
  • Familiarity with wastewater innovation research, pilot, and demonstration testing
  • Ability to develop and implement strategic visions and approach.
  • Demonstrated team management, project management, and budget management skills
  • Advanced written and verbal communication skills
  • Extensive leadership skills
  • Ability to collaborate with industry leaders at client agencies, other companies, and technology providers
Responsibilities:

Wastewater Innovation Leadership

  • Lead our Client's wastewater innovation strategies in US and Canada. Coordinate with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders on regional support.
  • Serve as face of our Client's leadership on liquids and solids treatment process innovation for the US and Canada.
  • Represent our Client's at the highest level in key Professional Organizations' activities and select committees. Coordinate with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders to increase breadth of coverage while avoiding redundancy.
  • Serve as key member of our Client's wastewater leadership team with direct report to Wastewater Fellow-Innovation and Wastewater Technical Practice Director.
  • Advance our Client's work in wastewater process innovation in the US and Canada including but not limited to: nutrient removal and recovery, low DO/suboxic operations, ballasted activated sludge (BAS), aerobic granular sludge (AGS), anammox-based processes, membrane enhanced processes, carbon management, resource recovery (nutrients and energy), advanced solids processing, energy reduction, intensification, CECs including PFAS, and forward-looking, sustainable wastewater practices.
  • Help identify knowledge and talent gaps in wastewater process innovation areas. Work with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders, Wastewater Fellow-Innovation, Wastewater Technical Practice Director and regional Client Service Directors to fill gaps.

Advance Implementation of Process Innovations

  • Keep abreast of innovation trends, processes, technology, technology providers, and key regulatory drivers in liquids and solids treatment.
  • Identify new and emerging technologies and processes and acquire knowledge, data, and understanding to enable our client and their municipal clients to explore and integrate new emerging and innovative technologies, as appropriate.
  • Work with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders, Wastewater Fellow-Innovation, and Wastewater Technical Practice Director to develop and implement internal and external strategies for risk assessment, risk mitigation, and risk communication related to implementing process innovations.
  • Work with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders, Wastewater Fellow-Innovation, and Wastewater Technical Practice Director to develop and implement strategies for identifying, tracking, and collaborating with key technology providers.
  • Work with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders, Wastewater Fellow-Innovation to develop and implement strategies to drive awareness and application of appropriate process and technology innovations.
  • Work with Regional Wastewater Leads and client agencies to identify opportunities for innovative applications of new and emerging technology and processes in the US and Canada.
  • Promote appropriate use of innovative wastewater processes, equipment, and solutions in the US and Canada.
  • Work with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders to manage our Client's wastewater process Innovation Leadership Initiative program.
  • Interface with engineering teams to support process alternative assessment, demonstrate processes, and promote innovation, including but not limited to development or review of technical reports, process integration strategies, risk assessments, risk mitigation, pilot/demonstration testing plans, and considerations for startup, operations and maintenance, and optimization.
  • Interface with Regional BD and Strategic Pursuit teams in the US and Canada to identify appropriate innovation strategies and applications to be incorporated into prepositioning, proposals, and interviews.
  • Work with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders to further develop and refine our Client's Emerging Technology Design Integration Team (ETDIT) concepts.
  • Support strategic pursuits and strategic projects in the US and Canada with respect to process and innovation, as necessary.
  • Coordinate with Wastewater Fellow-Innovation, Wastewater Technical Practice Director, and Client Services Managers to visit clients/plant sites and assess potential innovative solutions to address client needs during prepositioning or project phases in the US or Canada

Innovation Brand Elevation

  • Collaborate with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders and Image and Visibility Lead to develop, refine, and implement strategies to enhance our Client's image and visibility within the wastewater industry.
  • Collaborate with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders and Image and Visibility Lead to manage wastewater technical image and visibility program.
  • Collaborate with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders, Image and Visibility Lead, and our Client's Creative Marketing Team (CMT) to develop content to enhance innovation image and visibility within professional organizations, professional media, printed media, and social media.
  • Provide visibility, professional organization leadership (committees, etc.) and podium presentations related to liquids and solids treatment process innovation. Coordinate with other Wastewater innovation leaders to increase breadth of coverage while avoiding redundancy.
  • Identify gaps in personnel, knowledge, projects associated with amplification of innovation brand.
  • Interface with external client agencies in the US and Canada and industry organizations to promote our Client's focus and work on innovation.
  • Coordinate with Subject Matter Expert (SME) Teams and Regional Wastewater Leads to expand and amplify unique aspects of our Client's innovation in liquids and solids treatment work in the US and Canada.
  • Collaborate with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders to direct, develop, and maintain lists, measles chart, and maps of key innovation liquids and solids projects and associated employees.
  • Collaborate with other Wastewater Innovation Leaders to direct, develop, and manage project descriptions for liquids and solids process innovations.

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