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About the Role

The Lead Operator supports the Regional Operations Supervisor in overseeing daily operational activities. Key responsibilities include providing administrative assistance, contributing to required reporting, and offering on-site guidance to operations staff. The role also involves work order entry, execution, and follow-up, as well as providing feedback on treatment plant performance and employee development. Reporting directly to the Regional Operations Supervisor, the Lead Operator plays a vital role in succession planning for the team and assumes supervisory responsibilities in the supervisor’s absence.

Responsibilities

Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and on-the-job training to Operators, Operators-in-Training, and Lead Operators
Support onboarding and development of operations staff
Reinforce operational standards, accountability, and best practices
Provide input to management on staff performance, training needs, and operational readiness
Promote a strong culture of safety, teamwork, and operational excellence
Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local environmental regulations and SPDES permit requirements
Support and participate in regulatory inspections, audits, and agency interactions
Assist with preparation, review, and submission of Discharge Monitoring Reports (DMRs) and DMR reporting
Maintain accurate and complete operational, maintenance, and compliance records
Ensure adherence to site-specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including client-provided SOP manuals
Lead process control testing and operational adjustments based on laboratory results and operational data
Utilize laboratory testing to maintain and improve treatment performance
Support the development, refinement, and implementation of SOPs to improve consistency, efficiency, and reliability
Assist with diagnostics, troubleshooting, and stabilization of underperforming or transitioning facilities
Enforce compliance with all NSU and site-specific health and safety programs
Follow and support implementation of site-specific Written Safety Plans and client Health and Safety Manuals
Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, and incident investigations as required
Comply with site-specific Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) plans maintained by facility owners and follow all established spill prevention and response procedures
Promote a safety-first culture across all operations staff
Serve as a key operational point of contact with client representatives at assigned facilities
Communicate operational risks, performance issues, and improvement opportunities to management
Represent NSU professionally during inspections, audits, and client interactions
Support operational transitions, coverage, and startup activities across multiple facilities as needed
Ensure all equipment, processes, and systems are well maintained and functioning properly
Perform and oversee cleanup and housekeeping tasks for work areas, tools, equipment, facilities, and grounds
Operate treatment equipment and processes manually and through instrumentation and control panels
Safely and proficiently operate various hand and power tools required for wastewater treatment operations
Participate in on-call rotations and work weekends and holidays as operationally required
Respond to emergencies and work extended hours as necessary to support operational continuity
Perform other related duties as assigned

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required
Valid Driver’s License and ability to travel between assigned facilities
Valid New York State wastewater operator licenses appropriate for assigned facilities (Grade 2A or higher preferred)
Minimum of 2–6 years of progressive wastewater treatment operations experience
Strong working knowledge of wastewater treatment processes, laboratory testing, safety practices, and SPDES compliance
Experience interacting with regulatory agencies and inspectors
Proficient with Microsoft Office
Familiar with LogCheck or similar electronic work order and reporting systems
Ability to read, interpret, and apply permits, SOPs, safety plans, and technical documentation

Skills

Wastewater treatment processes
Laboratory testing
Safety practices
SPDES compliance
Microsoft Office
LogCheck or similar electronic work order and reporting systems

Location

Assigned facilities

Work Type

Full-time

Experience Level

2-6 years

Education Level

High School Diploma or GED

Salary/Compensations

$35.00 - $50.00 per hour

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance
Employer-paid basic life insurance
Short-term and long-term disability coverage
Tuition reimbursement
Mentorship
Motivated team environment

About the Company

At Natural Systems Utilities, we are dedicated to providing sustainable, innovative solutions in the water and wastewater services industry. Specializing in the design, operation, and maintenance of utility systems, we prioritize environmental responsibility, reliability, and customer satisfaction. Join our team and be part of an organization that values teamwork, integrity, and a commitment to a sustainable future.

Equal Opportunity

Natural Systems Utilities provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, NSU complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.