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Wastewater Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Manager

Zachary, LA · On-site

$93K - $96K/yr

Louisiana Level 1 or Level 2 Water and Wastewater Operator Certification (Potable Water System). * Professional certifications or licenses such as Professional Engineer (PE), Qualified Environmental ...

Aurorium is committed to operating at the highest levels of manufacturing consistency, quality ... Conduct daily sampling and laboratory analysis for onsite wastewater treatment plant, document ...

Operator

Prairieville, LA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Minimum 2 years of experience operating heavy equipment in a construction environment. * Previous experience in construction, civil, or foundation work preferred * Ability to safely operate a variety ...

Review all applicable standard operating procedures (SOP's) and scores satisfactorily on quizzes ... Wastewater treatment experience preferred or experience in an industrial hazardous waste facility ...

Facility Plant Supervisor

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$17.96 - $57.68/hr

Review all applicable standard operating procedures (SOP's) and scores satisfactorily on quizzes ... Wastewater treatment experience preferred or experience in an industrial hazardous waste facility ...

Wastewater treatment experience preferred or experience in an industrial hazardous waste facility ... Review all applicable standard operating procedures (SOP's) and scores satisfactorily on quizzes;

Wastewater treatment experience preferred or experience in an industrial hazardous waste facility ... Review all applicable standard operating procedures (SOP's) and scores satisfactorily on quizzes;

Portabatch Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

The PortaBatch Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of portable lime slaking equipment at customer locations and terminal operations at the Port Allen Terminal. This position ...

Portabatch Operator

Port Allen, LA

$16.75 - $22/hr

The PortaBatch Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of portable lime slaking equipment at customer locations and terminal operations at the Port Allen Terminal. This position ...

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Operators are also expected to assist in other duties around the job site as needed. This position is considered as a novice level. Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties * Inspects, maintains ...

Operators are also expected to assist in other duties around the job site as needed.This position is considered as a novice level. Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties * Inspects, maintains ...

Operators are also expected to assist in other duties around the job site as needed.This position is considered as a novice level. Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties * Inspects, maintains ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

More information about this job Overview The Light Equipment Operator must have the ability and experience to operate hand-held mechanical devices used on project site. Will operate one or more piece ...

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Wastewater Operator information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

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How much do wastewater operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for wastewater operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $20.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $22.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wastewater operator?

Wastewater operators are professionals responsible for managing and maintaining the systems and equipment that treat municipal or industrial wastewater. They monitor, operate, and adjust controls to ensure that water treatment processes comply with environmental regulations and public health standards. Their duties include inspecting equipment, collecting water samples, conducting tests, and keeping detailed records. Wastewater operators play a crucial role in protecting water resources and ensuring clean, safe water for communities.

What are some common challenges wastewater operators face during routine plant operations?

Wastewater Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability, responding to unexpected system alarms, and ensuring compliance with strict environmental regulations. Adapting to changes in influent flow or composition, especially during storms or industrial discharges, can require quick problem-solving and teamwork. Operators must also stay current with evolving technologies and safety practices, making ongoing training an important part of the role.

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

To thrive as a Wastewater Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, chemistry, and safety regulations, usually supported by a high school diploma and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and mechanical maintenance tools is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork help operators manage complex systems and respond to emergencies. These skills ensure the safe and efficient treatment of wastewater, protecting public health and the environment.

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

AspectWastewater OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWastewater Treatment CertificationWater Treatment Certification
Work EnvironmentWastewater treatment facilities, sewer systemsWater treatment plants, drinking water facilities
Industry UsageMunicipal and industrial wastewater managementMunicipal and industrial water supply
Job FocusManaging wastewater processing and dischargeManaging drinking water quality and distribution

While both roles involve water management and require similar certifications, Wastewater Operators focus on treating and managing wastewater, whereas Water Treatment Plant Operators handle potable water production. Both are essential in water industry operations and often work in similar environments, but their specific responsibilities differ based on the type of water they manage.

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 $60,000, with experienced operators and those holding certifications earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, level of experience, and the complexity of the treatment facilities they work in.

Is wastewater operator a hard job?

Wastewater operators perform essential tasks such as monitoring treatment processes, maintaining equipment, and ensuring environmental compliance, which can involve physical labor and technical skills. The job often requires working in confined spaces, handling chemicals, and obtaining certifications, making it moderately challenging but manageable with proper training. Overall, it demands attention to safety and detail but is not considered excessively difficult for those with relevant skills and training.

What are the requirements to be a wastewater operator?

Wastewater operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must obtain relevant state certification or licensing, which involves passing exams that test knowledge of wastewater treatment processes and safety procedures. Some positions require prior experience or technical training, and operators often need to be physically capable of working in various environmental conditions and handling equipment. Continuing education is also common to maintain certification and stay updated on regulations.

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 infrastructure, such as urban areas or states with strong environmental regulations. Factors like experience, certifications, and the size of the facility also influence earning potential, with operators in larger or more complex treatment plants generally earning more.

What are the most commonly searched types of Wastewater Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

The most popular types of Wastewater Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What are popular job titles related to Wastewater Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Wastewater Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Wastewater Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Wastewater Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Wastewater Operator jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Wastewater Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Wastewater Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,070 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Environmental Manager

Koch Industries

Zachary, LA • On-site

$93K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Koch Industries rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Your Job
Georgia-Pacific is seeking an Environmental Manager to support our Port Hudson Mill in Zachary, Louisiana. In this role, you will create value by partnering with operations to proactively manage environmental risk, ensure compliance excellence, and drive continuous improvement across environmental programs and management systems. You will work closely with mill leadership, operations teams, environmental professionals, and subject matter experts across the organization. You will also collaborate with Environmental Managers across our retail mill network to share knowledge, leverage best practices, and advance environmental performance.
Our Team
For over 50 years, the Port Hudson Paper Mill has been a major part of the economic lifeblood of the region. With more than 300 employees, Port Hudson strives to lead the tissue and towel business. Our team recently invested more than $50 million to grow our brands and continue to serve our loyal consumers with the great quality they have come to expect.
Learn more by visiting our consumer products homepage.
What You Will Do
  • Provide strategic leadership and direction for all environmental programs at the Port Hudson Mill, ensuring compliance with federal, state, local, and company environmental requirements while supporting safe, reliable, and efficient mill operations.
  • Partner closely with operations, maintenance, engineering, and reliability teams to identify environmental risks, evaluate proposed operational changes, and implement solutions that enable compliance while supporting business objectives.
  • Own the mill's environmental compliance programs, including air permitting and compliance, wastewater treatment, stormwater management, hazardous and non-hazardous waste management, chemical reporting, and landfill management activities.
  • Serve as the primary environmental liaison with regulatory agencies, leading permit negotiations, inspections, audits, compliance reporting, and communications with state and federal environmental authorities.
  • Lead the mill's environmental management system (EMS), ensuring robust systems, procedures, and management of change processes are in place to effectively identify, manage, and mitigate environmental risks.
  • Monitor environmental performance indicators, permit requirements, and compliance obligations, using data analysis and root cause problem-solving to identify trends, address gaps, and drive continuous improvement.
  • Provide environmental leadership and technical guidance for capital projects, operational improvements, process modifications, and production initiatives to ensure environmental considerations are integrated early in project development and execution.
  • Develop, coach, and influence leaders and employees across the mill by providing environmental training, promoting ownership of environmental responsibilities, and strengthening environmental stewardship throughout the organization.
  • Lead environmental risk assessments, compliance audits, and self-assessments to evaluate program effectiveness, identify improvement opportunities, and implement corrective actions that reduce risk and improve environmental performance.
  • Maintain a strong understanding of pulp and paper manufacturing processes, including fiber handling, pulping, recovery operations, utilities, wastewater treatment, and emissions control systems, to effectively support operational excellence and achieve the mill's vision for environmental excellence.

Who You Are (Basic Qualifications)
  • Experience in Environmental Science or Environmental Engineering in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
  • Supervisory experience.
  • Experience interpreting, applying, and overseeing environmental regulations, permits, and compliance requirements related to air emissions, wastewater, stormwater, waste management, or chemical management.
  • Experience conducting environmental audits, risk assessments, compliance evaluations, incident investigations, or corrective action activities.

What Will Put You Ahead
  • Pulp & paper experience
  • Title V Air Permit experience.
  • Experience managing solid waste, beneficial reuse, industrial landfill, or closed landfill programs.
  • Experience leading interactions with regulatory agencies, including permitting activities, inspections, enforcement discussions, and compliance negotiations.
  • Louisiana Level 1 or Level 2 Water and Wastewater Operator Certification (Potable Water System).
  • Professional certifications or licenses such as Professional Engineer (PE), Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP), Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM), or similar environmental credentials.

At Koch companies, we are entrepreneurs. This means we openly challenge the status quo, find new ways to create value and get rewarded for our individual contributions. Any compensation range provided for a role is an estimate determined by available market data. The actual amount may be higher or lower than the range provided considering each candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, and geographic location. If you have questions, please speak to your recruiter about the flexibility and detail of our compensation philosophy.
Hiring Philosophy
All Koch companies value diversity of thought, perspectives, aptitudes, experiences, and backgrounds. We are Military Ready and Second Chance employers. Learn more about our hiring philosophy here .
Who We Are
As a Koch company and leading manufacturer of bath tissue, paper towels, paper-based packaging, cellulose, specialty fibers, building products and much more, Georgia-Pacific works to meet evolving needs of customers worldwide with quality products. In addition to the products we make, we operate one of the largest recycling businesses. Our more than 300,000 employees in over 150 locations are empowered to innovate every day - to make everyday products even better.
At Koch, employees are empowered to do what they do best to make life better. Learn how our business philosophy helps employees unleash their potential while creating value for themselves and the company.
Our Benefits
Our goal is for each employee, and their families, to live fulfilling and healthy lives. We provide essential resources and support to build and maintain physical, financial, and emotional strength - focusing on overall wellbeing so you can focus on what matters most. Our benefits plan includes - medical, dental, vision, flexible spending and health savings accounts, life insurance, ADD, disability, retirement, paid vacation/time off, educational assistance, and may also include infertility assistance, paid parental leave and adoption assistance. Specific eligibility criteria is set by the applicable Summary Plan Description, policy or guideline and benefits may vary by geographic region. If you have questions on what benefits apply to you, please speak to your recruiter.
Additionally, everyone has individual work and personal needs. We seek to enable the best work environment that helps you and the business work together to produce superior results.
Equal Opportunities
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. Except where prohibited by state law, some offers of employment are conditioned upon successfully passing a drug test. This employer uses E-Verify. Please click here for additional information. (For Illinois E-Verify information click here , aquí , or tu ).
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