OPT Wastewater Operator Jobs
Wastewater Operator jobs on OPT are available at municipal utilities, water districts, and environmental services firms across the U.S. Most roles require state licensure, so confirming exam eligibility during your OPT period is an early priority. STEM OPT extension may apply if your degree is in environmental engineering or a related field.
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Posting Number PG195004EP
Internal Recruitment No
Working Title Onsite Wastewater Specialist
Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with Experience ($75,000 – $85,000)
Work Schedule Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM
Job Location Raleigh, NC
Department Crop and Soil Sciences
About the Department
The Department of Crop and Soil Sciences encompasses diverse disciplines in research, extension, and teaching. The department’s mission is to develop future leaders in crop, soil, and environmental sciences, improve crop plants and products, devise effective and sustainable crop production systems, devise effective and sustainable soil management techniques in both agricultural and urban settings; and disseminate crop, soil, and environmental science knowledge for the benefit of users and producers of food, feed, turf, biofuels, and fiber in North Carolina, the nation, and the world.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer:
Medical, Dental, and Vision
Flexible Spending Account
Retirement Programs
Disability Plans
Life Insurance
Accident Plan
Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
12 Holidays Each Year
Tuition and Academic Assistance
And so much more!
Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
The Extension Assistant Professor for On-site Wastewater Management leads the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences’ statewide Extension training program that prepares on-site wastewater professionals for certification and keeps certified professionals current through continuing education. Through hands-on schools and workshops at the Lake Wheeler Field Laboratory in Raleigh and other training locations across the state, along with the annual NC Onsite Treatment Conference, this position trains septic system installers, inspectors, operators, local health department staff, and Extension agents from every region of North Carolina. The program also covers the safe land application of biosolids and other organic wastes. Every person trained helps ensure that wastewater from homes, businesses, and communities is treated properly, protecting public health, drinking water sources, and the streams, rivers, and coastal waters that North Carolinians depend on.
Extension Program Delivery and Training:
Plan, schedule, and teach certification schools, workshops, and continuing education courses for on-site wastewater professionals, local health department personnel, Extension agents, and other stakeholders, primarily at the Lake Wheeler Field Laboratory with additional sessions offered across the state.
Deliver instruction on on-site wastewater system design, installation, operation, and maintenance, and on the land application of municipal wastewater residuals (biosolids) and other organic wastes.
Assist in organizing the annual NC Onsite Treatment Conference by helping develop the program agenda, recruiting speakers, coordinating logistics with the planning team, and presenting educational sessions.
Evaluate the effectiveness of training programs using participant surveys and learning assessments, and use the results to improve course content and delivery.
Curriculum and Educational Resource Development:
Develop and update training curricula, training manuals, and course materials so content reflects current North Carolina regulations, technologies, and industry practices.
Write and publish fact sheets, Extension bulletins, technical publications, and reports on on-site wastewater treatment and land application of residuals for professional and public audiences.
Training Facilities and Demonstration Management:
Develop, maintain, and improve hands-on training facilities and demonstration systems at the Lake Wheeler Field Laboratory (Raleigh) and the Mountain Horticultural Crops Extension Center (Mills River).
Maintain wastewater and land application training displays and equipment; inspect them before training events and arrange repairs and upgrades so demonstrations remain functional and up to date.
Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement:
* Build and maintain partnerships with industry, government agencies, local health departments, professional organizations, and other stakeholders; for example, meet with regulatory and industry partners to identify training needs and co-sponsor educational events.
Other Responsibilities
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
A Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Agricultural Education, Biological Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field is required.
Other Required Qualifications
Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to teach and communicate effectively with adult learners.
Ability to develop, deliver, and evaluate applied, hands-on training programs and to work effectively with Extension personnel, government agencies, industry, and other stakeholders.
Knowledge of on-site wastewater treatment systems and irrigation systems, and the soils of North Carolina and their relationship with on-site wastewater treatment systems.
Writing skills necessary for producing programmatic output, including reports, Extension bulletins, fact sheets, and training materials and manuals.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in on-site wastewater management, land application of wastewater residuals, or a related field.
Previous work with health departments, an agronomic or soil science background, knowledge of on-site wastewater treatment and disposal systems, and the ability to troubleshoot system-related problems.
Demonstrated ability to deliver professional training or Extension programs, educational material development, and hands-on or mechanical work is also desirable.
Familiarity with NC-specific regulatory bodies and stakeholder networks relevant to on-site wastewater treatment, e.g., local health departments and professional associations related to the area.
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
A valid NC Driver’s License or the ability to obtain an NC Driver’s License within 60 days of hire.
A valid Driver’s License must be maintained throughout employment.
Valid NC Driver's License required Yes
Commercial Driver's License required No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 10/30/2026
Anticipated Close Date Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
As a part of your application please attach the following:
- Cover Letter
- Resume/CV
- Extension Statement (other document 1) – 2 pages max
- Contact information for three (3) professional references.
Position Details
Position Number 00112420
Position Type Non-Tenure-Track Faculty
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00
Appointment 12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Department ID 110901 - Crop and Soil Sciences
EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
Posting Information
Posting Number PG195004EP
Internal Recruitment No
Working Title Onsite Wastewater Specialist
Anticipated Hiring Range Commensurate with Experience ($75,000 – $85,000)
Work Schedule Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM
Job Location Raleigh, NC
Department Crop and Soil Sciences
About the Department
The Department of Crop and Soil Sciences encompasses diverse disciplines in research, extension, and teaching. The department’s mission is to develop future leaders in crop, soil, and environmental sciences, improve crop plants and products, devise effective and sustainable crop production systems, devise effective and sustainable soil management techniques in both agricultural and urban settings; and disseminate crop, soil, and environmental science knowledge for the benefit of users and producers of food, feed, turf, biofuels, and fiber in North Carolina, the nation, and the world.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer:
Medical, Dental, and Vision
Flexible Spending Account
Retirement Programs
Disability Plans
Life Insurance
Accident Plan
Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
12 Holidays Each Year
Tuition and Academic Assistance
And so much more!
Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
The Extension Assistant Professor for On-site Wastewater Management leads the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences’ statewide Extension training program that prepares on-site wastewater professionals for certification and keeps certified professionals current through continuing education. Through hands-on schools and workshops at the Lake Wheeler Field Laboratory in Raleigh and other training locations across the state, along with the annual NC Onsite Treatment Conference, this position trains septic system installers, inspectors, operators, local health department staff, and Extension agents from every region of North Carolina. The program also covers the safe land application of biosolids and other organic wastes. Every person trained helps ensure that wastewater from homes, businesses, and communities is treated properly, protecting public health, drinking water sources, and the streams, rivers, and coastal waters that North Carolinians depend on.
Extension Program Delivery and Training:
Plan, schedule, and teach certification schools, workshops, and continuing education courses for on-site wastewater professionals, local health department personnel, Extension agents, and other stakeholders, primarily at the Lake Wheeler Field Laboratory with additional sessions offered across the state.
Deliver instruction on on-site wastewater system design, installation, operation, and maintenance, and on the land application of municipal wastewater residuals (biosolids) and other organic wastes.
Assist in organizing the annual NC Onsite Treatment Conference by helping develop the program agenda, recruiting speakers, coordinating logistics with the planning team, and presenting educational sessions.
Evaluate the effectiveness of training programs using participant surveys and learning assessments, and use the results to improve course content and delivery.
Curriculum and Educational Resource Development:
Develop and update training curricula, training manuals, and course materials so content reflects current North Carolina regulations, technologies, and industry practices.
Write and publish fact sheets, Extension bulletins, technical publications, and reports on on-site wastewater treatment and land application of residuals for professional and public audiences.
Training Facilities and Demonstration Management:
Develop, maintain, and improve hands-on training facilities and demonstration systems at the Lake Wheeler Field Laboratory (Raleigh) and the Mountain Horticultural Crops Extension Center (Mills River).
Maintain wastewater and land application training displays and equipment; inspect them before training events and arrange repairs and upgrades so demonstrations remain functional and up to date.
Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement:
* Build and maintain partnerships with industry, government agencies, local health departments, professional organizations, and other stakeholders; for example, meet with regulatory and industry partners to identify training needs and co-sponsor educational events.
Other Responsibilities
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
A Ph.D. in Soil Science, Agronomy, Agricultural Education, Biological Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a closely related field is required.
Other Required Qualifications
Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to teach and communicate effectively with adult learners.
Ability to develop, deliver, and evaluate applied, hands-on training programs and to work effectively with Extension personnel, government agencies, industry, and other stakeholders.
Knowledge of on-site wastewater treatment systems and irrigation systems, and the soils of North Carolina and their relationship with on-site wastewater treatment systems.
Writing skills necessary for producing programmatic output, including reports, Extension bulletins, fact sheets, and training materials and manuals.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in on-site wastewater management, land application of wastewater residuals, or a related field.
Previous work with health departments, an agronomic or soil science background, knowledge of on-site wastewater treatment and disposal systems, and the ability to troubleshoot system-related problems.
Demonstrated ability to deliver professional training or Extension programs, educational material development, and hands-on or mechanical work is also desirable.
Familiarity with NC-specific regulatory bodies and stakeholder networks relevant to on-site wastewater treatment, e.g., local health departments and professional associations related to the area.
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
A valid NC Driver’s License or the ability to obtain an NC Driver’s License within 60 days of hire.
A valid Driver’s License must be maintained throughout employment.
Valid NC Driver's License required Yes
Commercial Driver's License required No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 10/30/2026
Anticipated Close Date Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
As a part of your application please attach the following:
- Cover Letter
- Resume/CV
- Extension Statement (other document 1) – 2 pages max
- Contact information for three (3) professional references.
Position Details
Position Number 00112420
Position Type Non-Tenure-Track Faculty
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.00
Appointment 12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Department ID 110901 - Crop and Soil Sciences
EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
See all OPT Wastewater Operator Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Wastewater Operator Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Wastewater Operator
Verify your degree qualifies for STEM OPT
Wastewater Operator roles can qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree is in environmental engineering, civil engineering, or environmental science. Confirm your CIP code with your DSO before applying to roles expecting longer authorization.
Address state licensure timelines upfront
Most states require a wastewater operator license to work independently. Research your target state's exam schedule and eligibility rules early. Some states allow you to work under a licensed operator while you complete requirements, which matters on a timed OPT period.
Target municipal utilities and water districts
Public utilities and regional water authorities hire operators regularly and are often more familiar with work authorization than private employers. Government-adjacent roles tend to have structured onboarding that accommodates OPT paperwork and documentation requirements more smoothly.
Emphasize hands-on lab and field experience
Employers hiring on OPT want confidence you can contribute quickly. Highlight any wastewater treatment, water quality testing, or environmental monitoring experience from internships, co-ops, or coursework. Practical skills reduce perceived onboarding risk for time-sensitive OPT hires.
Start your job search before OPT begins
Wastewater Operator hiring cycles at utilities can move slowly due to civil service processes. Apply three to four months before your OPT start date if possible. Early outreach gives employers time to process your authorization before your availability window opens.
Clarify H-1B sponsorship potential during interviews
Ask whether the employer has sponsored H-1B visa or green card cases for engineering or technical roles before. Utilities with existing immigration counsel are far more likely to sponsor. Frame the question around long-term retention, not just your immediate need for authorization.
Wastewater Operator OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Wastewater Operator on OPT?
Yes, F-1 students on OPT can work as Wastewater Operator if the role is directly related to their degree field, such as environmental engineering, civil engineering, or environmental science. Your DSO must authorize OPT for your specific degree program, and your employment must align with that field to remain in status.
Do Wastewater Operator jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
They can, depending on your degree. If your degree is in a STEM-designated field like environmental engineering or environmental science, and your employer is enrolled in E-Verify, you may qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. The role itself is not the deciding factor; your degree's CIP code and your employer's E-Verify enrollment are what matter.
How does state licensure affect OPT students in wastewater roles?
State wastewater operator licenses are required in most states to operate treatment systems independently. Exam eligibility, scheduling, and processing can take several months, which competes directly with your OPT clock. Some states permit working under a licensed supervisor while completing requirements. Research your target state's rules before accepting an offer, and confirm your employer's support for the process.
Do utilities and water districts commonly hire OPT students?
Municipal utilities and regional water districts do hire OPT students, particularly those with environmental or civil engineering degrees. Public employers tend to have more structured HR processes and are often more familiar with work authorization documentation than smaller private firms. Migrate Mate lists Wastewater Operator roles from employers open to OPT candidates, making it easier to focus your search.
What happens to my wastewater job if my OPT expires before H-1B approval?
If your OPT expires and your H-1B petition hasn't been approved, you cannot continue working. The key safeguard is cap-gap protection: if your employer files an H-1B petition before your OPT expires, you're authorized to keep working through September 30 of that year. Coordinating your employer's H-1B filing timeline well before your OPT end date is critical.