Lead Wastewater Operator; South Plant – Baton Rouge, LA

Overview

At Jacobs, we re challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world s most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

At Jacobs, we challenge what is currently accepted, so we can shape innovative and lasting solutions for tomorrow. Through the delivery of our operations and maintenance services, you ll make it simpler and more seamless for our municipal clients to operate safely and efficiently, empowering communities to focus on what matters most to them – people.

Jacobs is seeking a Lead Licensed Wastewater Operator to join our collaborative team in Baton Rouge, LA
. You ll perform a variety of tasks in the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant, leading weekly meetings, directing, assigning and training team members. You ll contribute to the success of our program with efficient preventive maintenance, establishing and maintaining effective sample procedures of plant operations and effluent, and providing effective solutions to complex challenges that may arise.

You ll diagnose operating problems, make process control adjustments, direct and perform necessary corrective action. You ll also prepare reports, collect samples, perform laboratory testing, determine proper chemical flow rates, maintain shift logs and perform other duties as required. Most importantly, you ll take action to ensure the safety, health and well-being of you and your team.

Location:

South Wastewater treatment facility

• Lead weekly meetings and direct, assign and train team members in the operation and maintenance of a wastewater treatment plant.
• Perform preventive maintenance and establish/maintain effective sample procedures of plant operations and effluent.
• Diagnose operating problems, make process control adjustments and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare reports, collect samples, perform laboratory testing, determine proper chemical flow rates, and maintain shift logs.
• Ensure safety, health, and well-being of the team as a core priority.

• Four (4) or more years of experience in operating water/wastewater treatment plants.
• Experience leading teams and assigning work to ensure consistent process performance and regulatory compliance.
• Proficient in computer software including Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Proficient in plant SCADA systems and software.
• Experience with DMS and CMMS.
• Hands-on experience performing basic maintenance activities in coordination with the local maintenance team.
• Possess a valid driver’s license with no major infractions.

• Six (6) years of experience operating water/wastewater treatment plants.
• Knowledge of engines, pumps, valves, motors, and related equipment; basic maintenance practices; safe work practices; principles and methods of sewage analysis; effects and problems of industrial waste in water/wastewater treatment processes; principles of supervision.
• Knowledge of computer software including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, data management systems and the ability to operate plant PLCs and SCADA systems.

Safety is a core value  are committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all employees. This position will spend a substantial amount of time performing safety-sensitive labor or services.

The base salary range for this position is $52,736.00 to $74,000.00; though will be paid hourly based on hours worked. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Employees have access to medical, dental, vision and basic life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off (allocated plans start date 17 days per calendar year), seven paid holidays, caregiver leave, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount as well as legally mandated benefits.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Job posted on January 23, 2026. This position will be open for at least 3 days. Onsite employees are expected to attend a Jacobs Workplace on a full-time basis, as required by the nature of their role.

Your application experience is important to us, and we re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.