Sewage Disposal Operator
Date Posted: Sep 2, 2026
Requisition ID: 482787
Location:
Chesterton, IN, US, 46304
Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR):
About the Indiana Department of Natural Resources:The Indiana Department of Natural Resources protects, enhances, preserves, and wisely uses natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education. Monroe Lake is the largest land-bound body of water in Indiana and is operated primarily for flood control. Several state recreation areas surround the lake, creating multiple recreation opportunities including swimming, fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and hunting in designated areas.
Salary:
The salary for this position traditionally starts at $42,900.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator (https://in.accessgov.com/spd/Forms/Page/spd/compensation-calculator/0) to view the total compensation package.
A Day in the Life:
The essential functions of this role are as follows:
Assist in the compliance of all Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) regulations involving wastewater. This includes all reports, laboratory testing, monitoring compliance with NPDES permit regulations, and taking remedial steps as necessary.
Monitor plant operations daily, including the supervision of maintenance contract workers.
Operate and maintain pumps, pipes, and valves to move the sewage through the various treatment processes.
Check a variety of meters and gauges to make sure that plant equipment is working properly.
Take readings and record information on a variety of laboratory tests and make adjustments on treatment equipment.
Maintain daily log of all plant activities and prepare a monthly report of such information for the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH).
Clean, maintain, and observe plant equipment for efficient mechanical operation.
Ensure protective and safety requirements are followed in the performance of duties.
Assist with the upkeep and maintenance of the sewage collection system that includes forced main sewer lines, gravity sewer lines, lift stations, generators, and electrical systems.
Other duties as directed by supervisor may include providing customer service, grounds maintenance, fleet and equipment management and maintenance, facility maintenance, as well as fostering and maintaining productive work relationships with coworkers, partners, and stakeholders.
Workday attendance at assigned worksite(s) is an essential function of this position.
The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time.
What You'll Need for Success:
Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:
Valid driver's license to operate state vehicles and equipment.
Advanced knowledge of standard practices, processes, procedures, materials, and tools for general maintenance of a sewage disposal or wastewater treatment plant.
Working knowledge of mathematics used in making measurement conversions and in using standard mathematical formulas.
Working knowledge of fields such as electric, plumbing, pumps, controls, and motors to be able to make needed repairs, troubleshoot problem areas, and to comply with safety issues.
Specialized knowledge of the use of equipment necessary to test and report on the efficiency and safety of the water/sewage disposal plant.
Thorough knowledge of occupational hazards, safety precautions, and sanitary regulations of the trade.
Ability to work some nights, weekends, and special events.
High School Diploma or High School Equivalent (HSE).
Valid Certificate or Certificate of Eligibility as a Waste Treatment Plant Operator issued by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management required OR the ability to obtain the license in no more than 18 months after employment.
A degree is not required. However, a High School Diploma or High School Equivalent (HSE) is required.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:
Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
Education Reimbursement Program
Group life insurance
Referral Bonus program
Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
Free Parking for most positions
Free LinkedIn Learning access
Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
Current Employee? Click here (https://performancemanager8.successfactors.com/sf/careers/jobsearch?bplte_company=indianaoff) to apply.
