Job Summary

Wastewater Operator – Wastewater Collection & O&M
Location: Purdue University – Waterworks Department

Overview
Join Purdue’s Waterworks team as a Wastewater Operator focused on collection and distribution system operations and maintenance. This role supports safety, service, and cross-department collaboration in line with Purdue’s EVP values.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain wastewater collection and distribution systems, including CCTV inspections and sewer cleaning equipment.
• Document health, safety, environmental, and administrative requirements; ensure regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate with internal/external customers and suppliers; direct them to the Supervisor or Crew Chief as needed.
• Achieve mandatory wastewater certifications within 36 months (Class A Wastewater, Collections System Operations Class 1) and pursue ongoing development.
• Perform tasks assigned by supervisor and Crew Chief; participate in cross-training within Utilities Operations.
• On-call responsibility with potential irregular overtime; complete mandated training.
• Support a diverse, inclusive team environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; vocational/technical coursework a plus
• Interest in wastewater operations and commitment to obtaining required certifications within 36 months
• Willingness to work on-call, overtime, and flexible schedules as needed
• Ability to use CCTV and sewer-cleaning equipment (training provided)
• Strong safety mindset, good documentation/compliance skills, and effective communication with multiple stakeholders
• Alignment with Purdue EVP values: integrity, teamwork, excellence, inclusivity, public service

Work Environment and Benefits

• Hands-on role with emphasis on safety, reliability, and cross-training
• Structured certification pathways and professional development aligned with Purdue EVP
• Competitive benefits and collaborative, inclusive culture

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Required:

• High School Degree or High School Equivalency (HSE)
• One (1) year of experience in one of the following areas: water distribution, wastewater collection, plumbing, metering, or backflow prevention
• Valid Indiana driver’s license required

Preferred:

Awareness of environmental health concerns or environmental health experience preferred but not required

Skills Needed:

• Must have:
  • the ability to complete continuing education and training
  • a basic understanding of hydraulics, collections system operation & maintenance, repair, and replacement of equipment and structures
  • the ability to learn and operate Combination Sewer Cleaner Vacuum Truck and Closed-Circuit TV camera equipment
  • the ability to obtain and maintain a valid CDL license within 6 months of hire
• Good verbal communication skills are required
• Ability to perform basic mathematics
• Computer skills including familiarity with word, excel, and adobe is preferred, to include basic blueprint and map reading
• One year of mechanical aptitude in one of the following areas: water, wastewater, plumbing, wastewater collections, and/or municipal utilities required
• Must be able to:
  • lift 50 to 80 lbs. frequently, and up to 100 plus lbs. occasionally
  • pass mandated physical exams

Preferred:

• Indiana Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Class A and Indiana Wastewater Collections System Operator certification
• Operation of combined sewer cleaning trucks and sewer video inspection equipment
• Awareness of environmental health concerns or environmental health experience is also preferred

Additional Information:

Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position  

• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Non-Exempt (Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility:  Non-exempt Defined Contribution Plan
• Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

Fire, Police, and Skilled Trades 1

• Pay Band S045
• Job Code #20002900

Career pathmaker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purdue University is an EOE employer.