Waste Water Technician - 2nd shift
Niles, IL, US, 60714
Rich’s, also known as Rich Products Corporation, is a family-owned food company dedicated to inspiring possibilities. From cakes and icings to pizza, appetizers and specialty toppings, our products are used in homes, restaurants and bakeries around the world. Beyond great food, our customers also gain insights to help them stay competitive, no matter their size. Our portfolio includes creative solutions geared at helping food industry professionals compete in foodservice, retail, in-store bakery, deli, and prepared foods, among others. Working in 100 locations globally, with annual sales exceeding $4 billion, Rich’s is a global leader with a focus on everything that family makes possible. Rich’s®—Infinite Possibilities. One Family.
Purpose Statement
The Wastewater Technician is responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of the wastewater pretreatment system at the Niles plant. This role ensures environmental compliance, supports water conservation efforts, and maintains critical wastewater and facility systems during assigned shifts. The Wastewater Technician operates independently while collaborating closely with Maintenance, Production, and Environmental Health & Safety to ensure uninterrupted plant operations and regulatory adherence.
About the Niles Plant & Rich Products:
Our Niles, IL facility has proudly served as a cornerstone of Rich’s for over 30 years, specializing in Toppings, Creams, and Culinary Solutions (TCCS). Though compact at just 2 acres, this 24/7, 365-day operation punches well above its weight—driving innovation and consistency across our frozen non-dairy portfolio. With five rotating shifts and a non-union workforce, our plant thrives on ownership, agility, and cross-functional excellence.
Rich Products is a family-owned, global food company with over 80 years of legacy and leadership. Founded on the revolutionary idea of the non-dairy whipped topping, that same spirit of innovation fuels everything we do—from the plant floor to the boardroom. With operations in 100+ countries and a portfolio spanning foodservice, in-store bakery, and retail, Rich’s is more than a food company—we’re a people-first organization committed to doing what’s right, the Rich Way.
2nd shift 4:00pm - 2:30am Mon-Thu
Key Accountabilities and Outcomes
- Operate, monitor, and maintain the wastewater pretreatment system, ensuring compliance with all local, state, and federal environmental regulations.
- Perform daily inspections, sampling, testing, and documentation of wastewater systems, including flow rates, chemical levels, and discharge quality.
- Maintain and operate Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) systems, sludge tanks, and associated equipment.
- Conduct basic chemical testing and titrations to assess system performance and adjust treatment processes as required.
- Accurately document operational data, maintenance activities, and compliance records in accordance with regulatory and company standards.
- Perform preventive maintenance and minor repairs on wastewater equipment and related systems.
- Safely handle treatment chemicals and consistently follow PPE and safety protocols.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives related to water conservation, environmental sustainability, and system efficiency.
- Communicate system status, abnormalities, and maintenance needs to Maintenance, Production, and leadership teams.
- Provide limited general building and grounds maintenance support as needed, without compromising wastewater compliance priorities.
- Maintain housekeeping and organization standards within wastewater and utility areas
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Ability to perform physical job requirements including lifting up to 55 lbs, standing, walking, climbing, reaching, stooping, pushing, pulling, and working in industrial environments.
- Working knowledge of environmental safety practices and regulated manufacturing environments.
- Ability to accurately follow procedures, maintain detailed records, and respond to system alarms or process deviations.
- Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced, 24/7 operation.
- Comfort working independently during assigned shifts and responding to off-hour system needs.
Preferred:
- Technical training or coursework in wastewater treatment, environmental science, or industrial utilities.
- 1 to 2 years of experience in industrial or manufacturing wastewater operations, or willingness to complete training and certification.
- Experience with DAF systems, sludge handling, and chemical treatment processes.
- Familiarity with computerized systems, data logging, and reporting tools.
- Possession of a Class K wastewater license or ability to obtain one within a defined timeframe.
COMPENSATION
In accordance with state law, the rate or range provided is Rich Products Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates ("Rich's"), reasonable estimate of the base compensation for this role. The actual amount may be higher or lower, based on non-discriminatory factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, shift differential, and location.
Annual Range/Hourly Rate
$22.00 - $22.00

Rich Products Corporation, its subsidiaries and affiliates (“Rich’s”), are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity, standing up for fairness and maintaining a culture of belonging, to provide an exceptional experience for all. We will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, military or veteran status, or any other Federal or State legally protected classes. The information collected by this application is solely to determine suitability for employment, verify identity, and maintain employment statistics on applicants.
Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way things are normally done which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on Rich’s. Please contact Rich’s Associate Experience Network at hrhelp@rich.com if you need assistance completing this application or to otherwise participate in the application process.
Nearest Major Market: Chicago