Service Operations Manager- Wastewater

Job Description – Service Manager, Wastewater (BOO Operations)

Location: Nederland, TX

Position Type: Full-Time | Site Leadership Role

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Service Manager to lead all aspects of operations at a large, complex industrial water and wastewater treatment facility operating under a long-term BOO (Build-Own-Operate) contract.

This role is fully accountable for site performance, safety, team leadership, and customer satisfaction. The Sr. Service Manager will lead a 24/7 operation, driving reliability, developing people, and ensuring delivery against contractual performance obligations.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on, front-line leader who can navigate complex challenges, think critically, and develop creative solutions while building and leading a high-performing team.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and accountability for site operations, including process water and wastewater treatment systems


• Lead and develop a multi-discipline team of operators, maintenance technicians, and support personnel in a 24/7 environment


• Drive site performance against key KPIs including safety, uptime, water quality, and customer satisfaction


• Serve as the primary customer interface, maintaining strong relationships and ensuring alignment with contractual obligations


• Ensure full compliance with all safety programs, environmental regulations, and operating procedures


• Oversee site financial performance including budgeting, cost control, and operational efficiency [


• Lead troubleshooting and resolution of complex process and operational issues, including biological treatment systems (MBR/MBBR)


• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across operations, maintenance, and team performance


• Establish and maintain strong operational discipline, documentation, and reporting standards


• Coordinate with internal stakeholders (engineering, corporate support, EHS, supply chain) to ensure successful execution within a large, matrixed organization

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of wastewater treatment experience, including MBR or MBBR systems


• Minimum 5 years of people management experience


• Bachelor of Science degree (technical or related field)


• Demonstrated experience in an industrial environment (e.g., chemical, oil & gas, manufacturing, utilities)


• Proven leadership ability in a 24/7 operations setting


• Strong understanding of safety programs, regulatory compliance, and operational risk management

Preferred Qualifications (Nice to Have)

• Degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Environmental, or related)


• 10+ years of people management experience


• Deep experience in industrial wastewater treatment, specifically MBR systems


• Prior P&L ownership or financial accountability


• Experience working within a BOO or contract operations