Industrial Wastewater Operations Lead

Woodard & Curran is an employee-owned engineering, science, and operations firm dedicated to clean water, a safe environment, healthy communities, and happy people. We foster an inclusive, collaborative culture that supports professional growth, flexibility, and meaningful work, empowering our employees to make a lasting impact on our clients, communities, and the planet.

Build Your Career with Woodard & Curran!

At Woodard & Curran, you'll join a team of hundreds of certified operators supported by engineers, scientists, and environmental experts across the country. Together, we solve complex operational challenges, keep treatment facilities running efficiently, and help protect the environment and public health.

We are also committed to investing in our people. Whether you're looking to expand your leadership responsibilities or advance your certifications, we'll support your professional growth through training, mentorship, and ongoing development opportunities.

We are seeking an experienced Operations Lead to help manage the operation and maintenance of innovative groundwater remediation and stormwater treatment systems in Bridgewater, New Jersey. This hands-on leadership role is responsible for supporting environmental restoration efforts through the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of treatment facilities that protect local water resources and support long-term site sustainability. The successful candidate will lead daily field activities, coordinate maintenance and contractor work, troubleshoot treatment equipment, and play a key role in ensuring environmental compliance. This position is ideal for a motivated problem solver who enjoys working outdoors, leading teams, and making a measurable impact on environmental stewardship every day.

Key Responsibilities

As Lead Operator, you will:

• Lead daily operation of groundwater and stormwater treatment systems.
• Coordinate and prioritize operations and maintenance activities.
• Troubleshoot pumps, valves, instrumentation, controls, and treatment equipment.
• Support environmental sampling and operational monitoring activities.

• Maintain treatment system reliability and respond to equipment failures.
• Assist with process optimization initiatives to improve system performance and efficiency.

• Promote safe work practices and maintain strong housekeeping standards.
• Work closely with the Plant Manager to execute site priorities and long-term objectives.
• Provide on-call and emergency response support as needed.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in water, wastewater, groundwater remediation, stormwater treatment, industrial treatment, or related environmental operations.
• Demonstrated experience leading operators, maintenance personnel, contractors, or multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, equipment manuals, technical specifications, and operational data.
• Strong mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and process troubleshooting skills.
• Experience supporting preventive maintenance, asset management, equipment reliability, and process improvement programs.
• Experience supporting capital projects, equipment installations, startups, or process modifications.
• Knowledge of environmental permits, compliance requirements, sampling programs, and reporting processes.
• Strong communication, organizational, and project management skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and facility management software, including Hach WIMS and Utility Cloud.
• Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.

Preferred Experience

Candidates with experience in any of the following areas are especially encouraged to apply:

• Groundwater/Stormwater/Industrial Wastewater remediation systems.
• Contractor management.
• New Jersey Industrial Wastewater License is preferred.

Physical & Work Environment

• This position involves working in both indoor and outdoor industrial environments and may require lifting up to 40 pounds. Team members must be available to respond to operational emergencies and provide occasional after-hours support when needed.
• As a condition of employment, the successful candidate will be required to complete a job-related physical examination, drug screen, and background check.

Why Join Woodard & Curran?

This position offers the opportunity to:

• Expand your leadership and management skills.
• Gain hands-on experience with complex environmental treatment systems.
• Lead meaningful projects that support environmental compliance and sustainability.
• Work alongside experienced operators and technical specialists.
• Receive support for maintaining and advancing industry certifications.
• Build a long-term career with a growing employee-owned company.

Compensation & Benefits

Expected Salary Range: $72,000 – 90,000 annually, depending on experience and licensure.

In addition, eligible employees may receive overtime and bonus opportunities.

Woodard & Curran offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Generous paid time off and company holidays
• Medical and dental insurance
• Flexible spending accounts
• Retirement savings programs
• Professional development and certification support
• Career growth opportunities
• Employee assistance programs and additional wellness benefits