Talent Undiscovered

Industrial Wastewater Treatment Operator I

A well-established manufacturing organization in Santa Ana is seeking an experienced Industrial Wastewater Treatment Operator I to support its on-site wastewater treatment operations. This hands-on role is ideal for someone with industrial wastewater, chemical processing, or metal plating experience who takes pride in safe, compliant, and efficient plant operations.

You will be responsible for operating, monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting equipment and processes that support treatment of industrial wastewater in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

The candidate must have Industrial Wastewater Treatment certification.

What You’ll Do

• Operate and maintain wastewater treatment systems, including batch treatment of plating wastewater and filter press operations.
• Monitor treatment processes, inspect pump stations, and perform routine equipment checks.
• Calibrate pH meters, chemical analyzers, and other process equipment.
• Conduct frequent analysis of treated wastewater using atomic absorption (AA) equipment.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and initiate corrective actions as needed.
• Perform scheduled preventive maintenance, including lubrication, cleaning tanks, channels, and sumps, and repacking pumps.
• Support safe shutdown and restart of plant equipment following power outages or other interruptions.
• Maintain accurate operating records, reports, supply inventory, and process documentation.
• Keep the wastewater treatment area clean, organized, and compliant with OSHA and environmental standards.
• Assist with cleanup involving equipment, tools, spills, plating lines, scrubbers, hazardous waste, and wastewater areas.
• Operate a forklift as needed.
• Follow all site safety procedures and wear required PPE.

What We’re Looking For

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Industrial Wastewater Treatment certification required.
• At least one year of experience in industrial wastewater treatment operations.
• At least one year of experience working with industrial chemicals, metal plating, or a similar manufacturing environment.
• Working knowledge of wastewater treatment, water reclamation, pumps, chemical processes, and related equipment.
• Ability to inspect, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair pumps and wastewater treatment systems.
• Strong safety mindset and familiarity with OSHA and environmental compliance requirements.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing effectively to a team.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Intermediate math skills.
• Bilingual English/Spanish is a plus.
• Valid California driver’s license required.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship.

Physical & Work Environment

This is a fully on-site role in a manufacturing and metal-finishing environment. The position requires frequent standing and walking, as well as squatting, pushing, pulling, reaching, and power grasping. Candidates must be able to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds and work around dust, fumes, heat, cold, humidity, plating solutions, and industrial chemicals. Required PPE will be provided and must be worn on the plant floor.

Schedule

Candidates must have flexibility to work assigned shifts, including weekends and holidays as operational needs require.

Apply today to be considered for this opportunity with a confidential manufacturing client.