Job Information
Actalent Plant Operator in Richmond, Virginia
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
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Richmond, VA.
Pay and Benefits
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)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Richmond,VA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on May 1, 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.