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Sludge Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operates sludge dewatering equipment. Maintains accurate records of all operational parameters. Removes sludge, alters flow rates, and adjusts aeration volume, chemical feed rates, and scum removal ...

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Removes sludge, heavy debris, and buildup from the bottom of Aeration Basins, Settling Tanks, Finals, and draft tubes when tanks are drained. * Isolates Mixed Liquor Suspended Solids (MLSS) Channels ...

Booth Technician

Fort Valley, GA

$16.25 - $22.50/hr

The Booth Technician is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and optimization of paint booths, sludge pits, and related chemical systems. This role ensures proper air balance, environmental ...

Hydro Truck Operator

Evansville, IN · On-site

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Handle and dispose of materials, sludge, and waste in compliance with regulations and company procedures. * Follow all safety protocols and procedures, including OSHA excavation rules, lockout/tagout ...

The Booth Technician is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and optimization of paint booths, sludge pits, and related chemical systems. This role ensures proper air balance, environmental ...

Treatment Plant Operator

Ocoee, FL · On-site

$41.41K - $76.61K/yr

Operates sludge dewatering equipment. * Maintains accurate records of all operational parameters. * Removes sludge, alters flow rates, and adjusts aeration volume, chemical feed rates, and scum ...

Sludge-Control Operator (sanitary ser.); Sludge-Filtration Operator (sanitary ser.). * Adjusts system operation to meet changing needs and demands. * Performs routine maintenance on equipment.

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Sludge information

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How much do sludge jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for sludge in the United States is $15.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sludge Treatment Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sludge Treatment Operator, you need a solid understanding of wastewater treatment processes, basic mechanical skills, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and relevant safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and teamwork are essential soft skills for efficiently managing plant operations and responding to issues. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and effective sludge processing, protecting both public health and the environment.

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

Sludge treatment plant operators often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, fluctuating sludge characteristics, and strict environmental regulations. Staying proactive with routine maintenance, continuous monitoring of treatment processes, and staying updated with regulatory requirements can help manage these issues. Collaboration with maintenance crews and environmental engineers is essential for troubleshooting and optimizing operations. Additionally, ongoing training can help operators stay current with the latest treatment technologies and best practices.

What are sludge operators?

Sludge operators are professionals responsible for managing and treating sludge, which is a byproduct of wastewater treatment processes. Their duties include operating equipment that processes and disposes of sludge, monitoring systems to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and maintaining records of operations. They play a crucial role in ensuring that sludge is safely processed and disposed of or reused, helping protect public health and the environment.

What is the difference between Sludge vs Wastewater Technician?

AspectSludgeWastewater Technician
CertificationsOften requires CDL, OSHA, or specialized sludge handling certificationsRequires wastewater treatment certifications, such as CWEA or state licenses
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in treatment plants, handling sludge processing and disposalIn treatment plants or field sites, managing wastewater treatment processes
Job FocusManaging and processing sludge generated from wastewater treatmentMonitoring and maintaining wastewater treatment systems

While both roles are involved in wastewater treatment, Sludge specialists focus on handling and processing sludge, whereas Wastewater Technicians oversee the overall treatment process. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the industry.

More about Sludge jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Sludge jobs? The most popular types of Sludge jobs are:
What states have the most Sludge jobs? States with the most job openings for Sludge jobs include:
Infographic showing various Sludge job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,397 per year, or $15.6 per hour.
Wastewater Technician 3 (Night Shift)

Wastewater Technician 3 (Night Shift)

Mark Anthony Group Inc.

Waddell, AZ

$21.50 - $26.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Mark Anthony Group is an entrepreneurial drinks company, built from the ground up by thinking differently, innovating and doing the unexpected. Our company is rooted in family values, a bold vision and relentless determination to continuously raise the bar and make a positive difference in consumers' lives. Founded in 1972, we’ve grown organically from a one-person import wine business into an international drinks company whose hallmarks include a portfolio of luxury wineries and iconic beverage brands, including White Claw® Hard Seltzer, Mike’s Hard Lemonade, and Cayman Jack.

Role Purpose:

The WASTEWATER TECHNICIAN 3 is responsible for operating, monitoring, maintaining, and repairing wastewater systems and equipment, minimizing equipment downtime and meeting all permit requirements.

*12 hour shift - Must be available to work 2,2,3 schedule that includes every other weekend*

Accountabilities & Impact:

Safety / Food Safety:

  • Adhere to all Plant and Safety policies and procedures, including wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as well as adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
  • Ensure equipment meets safety standards and regulations.

 Technical Expertise:

  • Operate, maintain, and repair wastewater treatment systems and associated process equipment.
  • Operate and monitor a hybrid anaerobic/aerobic wastewater treatment system, including the EGSB digester, equalization systems, aerobic biological treatment processes, dissolved air flotation systems, sludge handling systems, and associated process equipment to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations.
  • Operate, inspect, troubleshoot, and maintain biogas systems, including flare systems, gas compressors, co-generation equipment, and H2S scrubbers.
  • Maintain compliance with environmental, process safety, and operational requirements associated with anaerobic digestion, aerobic biological treatment, combustible gas systems, hydrogen sulfide hazards, confined space entry, and wastewater treatment operations.
  • Analyze data from controls, mechanical, electrical, chemical, and biological systems and initiate operational changes to maintain treatment performance within equipment requirements and permit limits.
  • Monitor and optimize wastewater treatment performance, including flow, pH, ORP, dissolved oxygen, nutrient balance, biomass health, COD reduction, gas production, H2S concentrations, sludge quality, and overall biological treatment efficiency.
  • Initiate corrective actions or alternative operating procedures during outages, equipment failures, process upsets, toxic or high-strength waste loads, large spills, or emergency conditions affecting wastewater treatment systems.
  • Perform basic and advanced laboratory testing related to wastewater process monitoring, anaerobic treatment, aerobic biological treatment, sludge quality, and process control.
  • Conduct routine and non-routine analysis of wastewater streams and anaerobic/aerobic treatment performance.
  • Perform routine, preventative, predictive, and corrective maintenance on wastewater treatment, anaerobic digestion, aerobic treatment, gas handling, sludge handling, and process treatment equipment.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, controls, anaerobic process, aerobic process, and biological treatment equipment to minimize downtime and operational disruptions.
  • Demonstrate strong root-cause problem-solving skills to identify operational issues, execute repairs, improve reliability, and optimize wastewater treatment system performance.

 Documentation:

  • Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, including work performed, parts used, and any additional observations.
  • Ensure PM’s/ work order paperwork is completed before departure from plant.
  • Follow-up with any team members when passing along ongoing work to the next shift.
  • Assist the lead with developing/updating SOP’s.

Team Collaboration:

  • Work closely with brewing and other departments to coordinate maintenance activities without disrupting the manufacturing process. Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors.

Inventory Management:

  • Finding parts in the CMMS system.
  • Ensure parts used from inventory are reported and documented in accordance with inventory control program guidelines.
  • Optimize the use of resources, including tools and equipment.

 Communication:

  • Ensure smooth shift changes by communicating important information to incoming shifts, including updates on work in progress, equipment conditions, and any outstanding issues or concerns.
  • Escalate concerns to supervisor as it relates to safety, quality, performance goals, productivity, continuous improvement, and teamwork/harmony.

 Training and Development:

  • Collaborate with your peers and team members to transfer specialist technical knowledge.

Process Improvement:

  • Work directly with leadership to develop and execute projects involving continuous improvement, equipment and/or facility upgrades, and the permanent corrective measures of reoccurring problems.
  • Perform other various job duties as required.

Skill & Experiences Needed:

  • 3 years of operational experience in an anaerobic wastewater treatment plant preferred.
  • Knowledge of wastewater treatment plant operations, sludge processing and handling, chemistry, microbiology, anaerobic digestion processes, EGSB digester operations, and laboratory testing equipment.
  • Experience with biogas systems including flare systems, gas compressors, co-generation systems, and H2S scrubbers preferred.
  • Knowledge of mathematics, mechanical systems, chemistry, biology, microbiology, electrical systems, instrumentation, controls systems, maintenance practices, and safety procedures.
  • Competent in the operation of wastewater treatment equipment and unit processes including pumping systems, controls systems, screening, grit removal, clarification, pH adjustment, nutrient dosing, sludge dewatering equipment, anaerobic pretreatment systems, aerobic biological treatment systems, and associated process equipment.
  • Experience handling hazardous chemicals and working safely around combustible gases, hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and confined space environments.
  • Experience troubleshooting and maintaining pumps, motors, compressors, valves, piping systems, instrumentation, process controls, SCADA systems, and related process equipment.
  • Proficient in computer systems and software including Microsoft Office, Excel, email platforms, SCADA systems, and Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively document operational activities and communicate across departments.

The Plant Utility Tech position is well-suited for you if you have/are:

  • Superior attention to safe work practices.
  • Ability to manage well under pressure while staying true to the company values.
  • Strong work ethic and willingness to take on any task.
  • Reliable and punctual - must adhere to attendance and absenteeism policy.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize work while multitasking.
  • Excellent communication skills both orally and written.
  • Ability to demonstrate and maintain a “can-do” and positive attitude.
  • Ability to provide and receive open and regular feedback and adjust accordingly.
  • Works collaboratively within various teams.
  • Ability to adjust communication/leadership style as needed and when appropriate.
  • Fully accountable owner of self and team behaviors and results.

 

Working conditions:

  • This position is exposed to occupational hazards, including but not limited to, high noise levels, physical obstacles, exposure to chemicals, etc.
  • Ability to work outdoors occasionally, exposed to the outside conditions, for short periods of time.
  • Subject to extreme heat/cold temperatures
  • Must have sufficient endurance to perform tasks over long periods of time.
  • Fast-paced and constantly changing work environment.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand/move 8-12 hours per day.
  • Ability to ascend/descend stairs/ladders throughout shift.
  • Fine motor skills and dexterity for manipulation
  • Must wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including (but not limited to) bump cap, safety steel toe shoes, safety glasses, dust masks or PAPRs.
  • Must adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).


Scheduling requirements: 2-2-3, 12-hour shifts in a two-week cycle. Shift operations include weekends, holidays. Must be able to work overtime as directed by management.

This position has been identified as a safety sensitive position within the state of Arizona.

Pay starts at $33.99/hour

At Mark Anthony, we exist to Unearth the Extraordinary:

Our Purpose is not just a statement; it is a call to action that binds us together and ignites our passion for making a difference. It is the driving force behind why we do what we do every single day, connecting our global organization across all business units, roles, and locations. We are:

Best in Our Craft
We set the standard with a pursuit of excellence that can be found in everything from our products and processes to our plants and people.

Ambitiously Curious
We stay curious, dreaming big and navigating the unknown with an enduring belief in better.

Made With Humility
We bring humility, authenticity, fun, and support to every collaboration and celebrate wins as a team.

Daringly Disruptive
We disrupt the status quo, moving fast to seize opportunities and acting scrappy to stay ahead of industry giants.