Plant Operator

Job Title: Plant Operator (Wastewater Treatment)

Build a Stable, Licensed Career Protecting Public Health & the Environment

As a Plant Operator, you’ll play a vital role in your community by helping treat wastewater and stormwater before it’s safely returned to the environment. This is a hands-on, technical position in essential public infrastructure—work that truly matters every day.

This role offers long-term career stability, a clear licensing and pay progression, and employer-supported training toward Virginia Wastewater Operator certifications. If you’re looking for a career—not just a job—with strong job security, growth potential, and purpose, this could be an excellent fit.

What You’ll Do

You’ll work as part of a skilled operations team to ensure the treatment plant runs safely, efficiently, and in compliance with environmental regulations.

• Monitor wastewater treatment systems to ensure safe and effective operation
• Adjust chemicals, pumps, valves, and equipment to maintain proper treatment levels
• Collect and analyze water samples at various stages of treatment
• Read gauges, meters, and instrumentation and maintain accurate operational logs
• Document data required for state and federal permits
• Identify abnormal readings or equipment issues and initiate troubleshooting
• Respond to alarms and operational concerns to protect personnel, equipment, and the environment
• Support 24/7 plant operations by working 12-hour rotating shifts (days, nights, weekends)
• Perform routine plant checks and hands-on work, including basic maintenance tasks
• Follow all safety procedures and properly use provided personal protective equipment
• Participate in structured training programs to obtain and maintain Virginia Wastewater Operator licenses

Why This Role Is a Great Opportunity

• Stable, Essential Career – Work in public infrastructure with long-term job security
• Clear Advancement Path – Progression tied directly to licensing and experience
• Paid Training & Licensing Support – No license required to start
• Purpose-Driven Work – Protect public health and the environment every day
• Built-In Time Off – Rotating 12-hour schedule includes a 7-day break each cycle

Required Skills & Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Ability to monitor and interpret gauges, pumps, meters, and valves
• Comfort performing hands-on, technical work in an industrial environment
• Strong attention to detail and accountability in logging and compliance documentation
• Ability to troubleshoot operational or equipment issues
• Willingness to work 12-hour rotating shifts, including nights and weekends
• Ability to lift up to approximately 50 pounds and perform physical tasks as needed
• Commitment to workplace safety and use of required protective equipment
• Ability to pass Virginia wastewater licensing exams within required timeframes

Licensing & Career Progression

No wastewater license is required at entry level. The organization provides training and support to help you grow your career:

• Class 4 Virginia Wastewater Operator License – targeted within 9 months of hire
• Class 3 Virginia Wastewater Operator License – targeted with 18 months of experience

This licensing structure provides a portable, in-demand skillset that can support long-term career growth statewide or nationally.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Interested in learning a skilled, licensed trade
• Motivated to build a long-term career in municipal or public utility operations
• Comfortable working around mechanical equipment, wastewater processes, and industrial systems
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and safety-conscious
• Values public service and making a meaningful community impact

Work Environment & Schedule

This position is based at an industrial wastewater treatment facility operating 24/7. Work is split between a climate-controlled control room and hands-on plant work. The environment includes exposure to noise, odors, chemicals, pumps, valves, meters, conveyor systems, and other mechanical equipment.

• 12-hour rotating shifts (Noon–Midnight / Midnight–Noon)
• Includes nights, weekends, and a built-in 7-day break each rotation
• Physical activity includes walking, climbing stairs, and occasional lifting
• Comprehensive safety training, protocols, and PPE are provided

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Richmond, VA.

The pay range for this position is $22.84 - $41.72/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Richmond,VA.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 27, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000 extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.

Salary : $23 - $42