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Digester Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Operations Technician

De Soto, IL · On-site

... digester facilities. Introductory Employment Period: Your employment with Archaea will begin with ... Review daily operating reports and other records to ensure specified operating characteristics in ...

All JobsDigester Operator JobsDigester Operator Jobs in Illinois

Digester Operator information

What is a digester operator?

A Digester Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining digesters, which are large industrial vessels used to break down organic materials through chemical or biological processes. These professionals monitor equipment, control operating parameters, and ensure that the digestion process runs efficiently and safely. Digester Operators are commonly employed in industries such as wastewater treatment, pulp and paper, and renewable energy production. Their duties also include troubleshooting equipment issues, collecting samples for analysis, and following safety and environmental regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a digester operator, and why are they important?

A Digester Operator needs a solid understanding of industrial processes, mechanical aptitude, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant experience in wastewater treatment or industrial operations. Familiarity with SCADA systems, chemical dosing equipment, and safety protocols is typically required, and certifications like wastewater treatment operator licenses are often preferred. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators respond quickly to issues and collaborate with team members. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of digesters, which is critical for environmental protection and facility productivity.

What are some common challenges faced by digester operators, and how can they be addressed?

Digester Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining optimal operating conditions, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and managing unexpected changes in feedstock quality. To address these, operators must closely monitor process parameters, perform routine maintenance, and communicate effectively with maintenance and engineering teams. Staying proactive with preventive maintenance and participating in ongoing training can also help operators adapt to new technologies and regulatory requirements.

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

AspectDigester OperatorWastewater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires wastewater treatment certificationsRequires wastewater treatment certifications
Work EnvironmentOperates digesters in waste management or biogas plantsWorks in municipal or industrial wastewater treatment facilities
Industry UsageCommon in waste management, biogas, and renewable energy sectorsPrimarily in municipal and industrial wastewater treatment

Both roles involve operating treatment equipment and require similar certifications. However, Digester Operators focus on digesters used for waste breakdown and biogas production, while Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators manage the overall wastewater treatment process. The roles overlap in certifications and work environments but differ in specific processes and industry focus.

What are popular job titles related to Digester Operator jobs in Illinois?

For Digester Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Digester Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Digester Operator jobs in Illinois are:

Digester Operator jobs near you

Wastewater Operator Swing Shift

City of East Moline

East Moline, IL

$31.78 - $36.46/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Swing Shift OperatorWastewater Department Job Description

Reports to: Director, Lead Operator

Classification: Full Time, Non – Exempt

Labor Grade: 1 – 5 (Based Upon Attainment & Maintenance of Certifications)

Salary: $31.78 per hour - $36.46 per hour (Depending on Labor Grade)

Schedule: Wednesday – Friday: 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday: 10:00 pm – 6:00 am

General Description:

Under general supervision, verifies function of plant equipment, making the necessary adjustments to ensure the Wastewater Treatment Plant is in proper working order and in compliance with Illinois EPA regulations; performs other duties as assigned.

Essential Functions:

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following duties, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by incumbents of this class.

Primary Responsibilities: (which are not in any hierarchical order)

  • Monitors and adjusts plant equipment including pumps, valves, clarifiers, blowers, and drains to ensure plant is in proper working order.
  • Performs troubleshooting for pumping, filtering, sedimentation-coagulation, chemical mixing, feeding, and supplying.
  • Ensures routine maintenance, lubricating, and cleaning is completed on sewer plant equipment.
  • Transfers sludge from digester to digester or mix tank, pump scum pits.
  • Collects water samples and performs standard water testing and calculations.
  • Maintains records for Illinois EPA and reports plant status to other department personnel.
  • Assists maintenance personnel in restoring processes and equipment to operational conditions.
  • Utilizes and wears proper protective safety gear and equipment.
  • Operates city-owned vehicles, including trucks and backhoes.
  • Operates personal computer by inputting data.
  • Operates power tools and hand tools, including, mowers, weed eaters, snowblowers.
  • Maintains that the wastewater department is clean by sweeping, hosing floor and cleaning clarifiers in building.

Minimum Qualifications:

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.

Education and Training:

Equivalent of a High School Diploma

Experience:

Previous experience or course work in wastewater treatment is desired

License and/or Incentive Pay:

Employees who obtain an Illinois Class 4 Wastewater Operator License or Operator-in-Training (OIT) status qualify for Grade 2 compensation

  • Salary: $32.50 - $34.30

Employees who obtain an Illinois Class 3 Wastewater Operator License or Operator-in-Training (OIT) status qualify for Grade 3 compensation.

  • Salary: $33.22 - $35.02

Employees who obtain an Illinois Class 2 Wastewater Operator License or Operator-in-Training (OIT) status qualify for Grade 4 compensation.

  • Salary: $33.94 - $35.74

Employees who obtain an Illinois Class 1 Wastewater Operator License or Operator-in-Training (OIT) status qualify for Grade 5 compensation.

  • Salary: $34.66 - $36.46

Knowledge and Abilities:

The following generally describes the knowledge and ability required to enter the job and/or be learned within a short period of time in order to successfully perform the assigned duties.

Knowledge of:

  • Knowledge of plant processes, flow patterns, controls, and the operation of all treatment equipment.
  • Knowledge of OSHA regulations, EPA regulations and safe work practices.
  • Knowledge of the function of hand and power tools.

Ability to:

  • Ability to ensure safe work environment.
  • Ability to utilize a personal computer and understand software and programs utilized in performing duties.
  • Ability to safely handle various process chemicals, recognizes potential hazards, and employs proper procedures and safety equipment.
  • Ability to react quickly and make independent decisions regarding various operating conditions.
  • Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to work in inclement weather conditions.
  • Ability to work different shift which can vary from time to time.
  • Ability to work alone or with someone.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with those contacted throughout the course of the workday.
  • Ability to maintain effective working relationships with other departments, agencies, employees, supervisors and the public.

Working Conditions:

The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions

Environment:

Works closely with hazardous chemicals and materials, mechanical parts, and slow-moving equipment. Position is subject to overtime, emergency call out, working in inclement weather.

Physical:

There is a frequent need to stand, walk, sit, climb, twist, bend, stoop, talk or hear, use hands to finger, lift up to and over fifty (50) pounds, and perform other similar actions during the course of the workday.

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