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Digester Operator Jobs in Parrish, FL (NOW HIRING)

AWT Plant Technician II

Tampa, FL · On-site

$31.12 - $44.24/hr

... of digester gas valves; assists with completing advanced preventive maintenance requirements ... Performs visual inspections per standard operating procedures; paints pumps and motors, piping and ...

... of digester gas valves; assists with completing advanced preventive maintenance requirements ... Performs visual inspections per standard operating procedures; paints pumps and motors, piping and ...

Digester Operator information

See Parrish, FL salary details

$9

$20

$32

How much do digester operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for digester operator in Parrish, FL is $20.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $19.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do wastewater operators make the most money?

Wastewater operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and more advanced treatment facilities, such as urban areas or states with strong environmental regulations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the treatment plant also influence earning potential.

What does a digester do?

A digester operator manages and monitors digesters, which are large tanks used to break down organic waste through biological processes like anaerobic digestion. They ensure proper operation, control temperature and pressure, and maintain safety standards to produce biogas or other byproducts efficiently.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $3,000 a day typically include specialized roles such as senior corporate executives, high-level consultants, certain medical specialists, and skilled trades like commercial pilots or oil and gas engineers. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-demand industries with significant responsibilities.

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 jobs in the US pay $300,000 a year?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior executives, specialized surgeons, and certain engineering managers can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced education, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, and may involve working in demanding environments or requiring specific certifications.

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 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 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.
SWWRF Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee

SWWRF Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Trainee

Manatee County Government

Bradenton, FL

$18.40 - $35.50/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

General Information Work Location: 5101 65th St W Bradenton, FL, 34210 Work Hours: 7:30am - 7:30pm or 7:30pm - 7:30am / 2 days on 2 days off Expected Starting Hourly range: $18.40 - $23.00 This classification performs work in the operation of Manatee County Water and/or Wastewater (W/WW) Treatment Plants, equipment and facilities. Level of duties and responsibilities determined based on Qualifications. Duties involve learning and training under higher level employees to improve skill set

Note: Position level and salary will be dependent on qualifications (DOQ). Employment screenings, as outlined in the Personnel Policy, Rules, and Procedures Manual, will be conducted in compliance with applicable federal and Florida Laws. Working Conditions The work environment may include exposure to high noise levels while performing certain essential job functions, with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) required.

The position requires the ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds independently and up to 100 pounds with assistance, with or without reasonable accommodation. Work may involve strenuous physical activity under varying climatic conditions, around industrial equipment, and in both indoor and outdoor environments. Facility operates 24 hours per day on a non-rotating schedule consisting of two 12-hour shifts.

Job Description Essential Functions These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position. All levels: Participates in an on-the-job training program involving practical, "hands-on" experience with plant operations under the close supervision of a shift supervisor, lead operator or chief operator; reads and comprehends a variety of technical laboratory, operations and maintenance procedures; attends training courses and engages in independent study of water/wastewater plant operations.

Regulates the proper flow of alum, lime, bleach, etc., according to prescribed instruction. Transfers chemicals from storage to feeder hopper. Operates water filters; maintains proper water levels; washes filters when necessary; maintains proper water in tank and covered storage reservoir by operating pumps and opening and closing valves (only as directed by immediate supervisor.) Collect water, wastewater, and process samples in accordance with established procedures

Perform routine laboratory analyses to monitor treatment processes and ensure regulatory compliance. Accurately record, interpret, and report laboratory results. Maintain laboratory equipment, instruments, and testing supplies to ensure accurate and reliable results.

Follow all applicable quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures and safety protocols. Brings any mechanical defects to the attention of the plant supervisor; assist with routine facility maintenance to ensure a safe and efficient workplace. Takes and records rain gauge readings.

Participate in receiving and unloading treatment chemicals, verifying deliveries, and maintaining accurate chemical inventory. Transfer chemicals from storage to day tanks/feeder hoppers. Perform general custodial and housekeeping duties to maintain a clean, safe, and organized plant environment.

Performs other related duties as assigned, including participation in emergency or disaster response activities, as required and consistent with the employee's qualifications, essential job functions, and applicable federal and Florida law. Tech I: Participates in an on-the-job training program involving practical, "hands-on" experience with plant operations under the close supervision of a shift supervisor or chief operator; reads and comprehends a variety of technical laboratory, operations, and maintenance procedures. Starts and stops machinery and pumps, regulates valves and observes dials; adds chemicals according to prescribed standards; operates, oils, and adjusts machinery.

Performs limited maintenance and assists in minor repairs to pumps and other equipment; takes and tests various samples periodically and reports same; maintains simple records. Performs cleanup work on equipment; and may clean plant interior and maintain grounds as required. Tech II: Operates a water and/or wastewater treatment plant or plants and related facilities; makes operating process changes based upon routine tests and gauge and meter readings; operates water and/or wastewater treatment units such as primary, secondary with chlorination, digester, and sludge disposal.

Makes log entries, changes charts and recording sheets, inspects motors, bearings, and gear boxes for overheating and proper lubrication, takes temperature of sludge and effluent at various stages, uses meter and gauge readings to determine performance of equipment, performs preventive maintenance and limited repairs. Collects samples of sewage and effluent at various stages of processing and runs routine tests. Operates and inspects water and/or wastewater treatment plants, pumping stations and related facilities, starts and stops pumps, regulates valves, and observes flow dials.

Reads gauges and records information shown. Diagnoses and corrects mechanical and electrical problems, performs preventive maintenance and minor repairs, contacts maintenance personnel for major repairs, may assist in disassembling, repairing and reassembling pumps, and equipment as required, maintains, and calibrates meters and testing equipment. Draws samples of water for test and analysis, checks and adjusts chemical feeders in accordance with the prescribed standards, wash filters periodically.

Conducts visual inspections of working apparatus and grounds, may perform housekeeping duties such as sweeping and mopping floors, washing windows, painting, and light building maintenance. Prepares reports and maintains records. Tech III: Directs and participates in the work of shift assistants involved in the operation and minor maintenance of the plant, trains and provides technical assistance to shift assistants.

Makes changes in plant operations to conform with quality control standards, records plant operating data and reports serious deviations from normal operations to the Chief Operator, gives tours of the plant, enforces safety regulations. Operates a water and/or wastewater treatment plant or plants and related facilities; makes operating process changes based upon routine tests and gauge and meter readings; operates water and/or wastewater treatment units such as primary, secondary with chlorination, digester, and sludge disposal. Makes log entries, changes charts and recording sheets, inspects motors, bearings, and gear boxes for overheating and proper lubrication, takes temperature of sludge and effluent at various stages, uses meter and gauge readings to determine performance of equipment, performs preventive maintenance and limited repairs.

Collects samples of sewage and effluent at various stages of processing and runs routine tests. Operates and inspects water and/or wastewater treatment plants, pumping stations and related facilities, starts and stops pumps, regulates valves and observes flow dials. Reads gauges and records information shown.

Diagnoses and corrects mechanical and electrical problems, performs preventive maintenance and minor repairs, contacts maintenance personnel for major repairs, may assist in disassembling, repairing and reassembling pumps, and equipment as required, maintains and calibrates metes and testing equipment. Draws samples of water for test and analysis, checks and adjusts chemical feeders in accordance with the prescribed standards, wash filters periodically. Conducts visual inspections of working apparatus and grounds, may perform housekeeping duties such as sweeping and mopping floors, washing windows, painting and light building maintenance.

Prepares reports and maintains records. Minimum Qualifications Trainee: Must secure an FDEP Class "C" Water and/or Wastewater Operator License within two (2) years of employment. Tech I: Possession of a current FDEP "C" Water and/or Wastewater Operator License prior to appointment.

General work experience related to the operation of mechanical/electrical equipment supplemented by courses in chemistry or related subjects. Tech II: Possession of a current FDEP "B" Water and/or Wastewater Operator License prior to appointment. General work experience related to the operation of mechanical/electrical equipment supplemented by courses in chemistry or related subjects.

Tech III: Possession of a current FDEP "A" Water and/or Wastewater Operator License prior to appointment. General work experience related to the operation of mechanical/electrical equipment supplemented by courses in chemistry or related subjects. All Levels: High school diploma or equivalent certificate of competency.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications for this position. More All Levels: Prior experience in servicing mechanical equipment and machinery desired. Tech III: Prior supervisory experience, desired (time as Operator In Charge applicable).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: All Levels: Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and supervisors. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions. Ability to distinguish colors.

Ability to stand, walk, climb and descend stairs and ladders, bend, kneel, and perform other physical tasks associated with plant operations. Ability to safely perform routine operational, maintenance, and emergency response duties. Trainee: Knowledge of the functions and servicing requirements of related mechanical equipment and machinery.

Ability to learn processes involved in water and/or wastewater treatment and the purification of water including some chemical tests. Ability to inspect machinery and mechanical equipment in operation and detect flaws and defects. Ability to read simple meters and charts accurately and maintain simple records of shift operation.

Tech I: Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment. Ability to read meters and charts accurately and to maintain simple records of shift operation. Ability to inspect machinery and mechanical equipment in operation and to detect flaws and defects.

Tech II: Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of water or wastewater processing equipment. Knowledge of equipment such as pumps and controls, motors, gears, diesel generators, chlorinators, and other equipment. Knowledge of laws regulating water and/or wastewater treatment.

Knowledge of basic chemistry and laboratory procedures as applied to water/wastewater processing. Ability to detect flaws in operations and solve routine operating problems. Ability to perform preventive maintenance and minor repairs to equipment and buildings and to perform grounds maintenance.

Ability to accurately read meters, gauges, flow charts, record time on proper forms and record test results. Tech III: Knowledge of the operation and maintenance of water and/or wastewater processing equipment and related plant equipment. Knowledge of equipment such as pumps and controls, motors, gears, diesel generators, chlorinators, and other equipment.

Knowledge of laws regulating water and/or wastewater treatment. Knowledge of basic chemistry and laboratory procedures as applied to water/wastewater processing. Ability to detect flaws in operations and solve routine operating problems.

Ability to perform preventive maintenance and minor repairs to equipment and buildings and to perform grounds maintenance. Ability to accurately read meters, gauges, flow charts, record time on proper forms and record test results. Veterans Preference In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans

Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families. EEO/ADA Statement Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at 941-748-4501 x 3865. Drug-Free Workplace Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law. Emergency Response/Recovery Activities All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency.

During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.