Equipment Operator / Loader Operator

Loader Operator

The Equipment Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of wastewater, septic, and used cooking oil (UCO) processing systems. This role supports daily facility operations, including receiving, processing, separation, and transfer of materials while maintaining compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards.

The ideal candidate has a strong mechanical aptitude, enjoys hands-on industrial work, and takes ownership of the operation by monitoring equipment performance, identifying issues before they become problems, and maintaining a safe, clean, and organized work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate facility processing equipment, including pumps, valves, DAF systems, shaker screens, trommel screening equipment, screw press, and transfer systems.
• Receive and safely offload incoming septic, grease trap, and UCO loads following established procedures.
• Monitor tank levels, flow rates, and treatment system performance to maximize throughput while preventing downtime or overflows.
• Adjust chemical dosing systems (lime, coagulant, polymer, and other treatment chemicals) to support proper wastewater treatment and separation.
• Manage sludge, fats, oils, grease (FOG), and solids handling, including transfer to designated storage or disposal areas.
• Perform routine inspections of pumps, piping, hoses, valves, tanks, and processing equipment to ensure reliable operation.
• Operate forklifts to unload pallets, move treatment chemicals, and stage materials.
• Operate skid steers, compact loaders, and front-end loaders for general material handling.
• Assist with tanker offloading and product transfer operations.
• Operate truck scales and the EveryWeigh scale system.
• Cross-train on UCO processing equipment, including centrifuge/tri-canter and boiler systems, as needed.
• Maintain clean, organized work areas following 5S housekeeping standards.
• Complete daily operational logs, production reports, scale tickets, and equipment inspections.
• Communicate equipment failures, maintenance needs, spills, and safety concerns immediately.
• Receive and inspect incoming tanker loads.
• May be required to obtain and maintain an Arizona Weighmaster License to weigh inbound and outbound vehicles.

Equipment & Systems Operated

Operators will be expected to operate or receive training on:

• Forklifts for unloading pallets, moving treatment chemicals, and staging materials
• Skid steers and front-end loaders for general material handling
• Wastewater transfer pumps, hoses, valves, piping, and tank systems
• Shaker screens and trommel screening equipment
• Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) treatment systems
• Screw press and sludge dewatering equipment
• Chemical dosing systems for lime, polymer, coagulants, and other treatment chemicals
• Tanker offloading and liquid transfer systems
• Truck scales and EveryWeigh scale system
• UCO processing equipment, including centrifuge/tri-canter and boiler systems (cross-training provided)

Direct experience with every system is not required. Candidates with strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to quickly learn industrial processes are encouraged to apply.

Safety & Compliance

• Follow all safety procedures, PPE requirements, and environmental regulations.
• Ensure proper handling and containment of wastewater, sludge, grease, and other waste streams.
• Identify and immediately report spills, equipment failures, near misses, or unsafe conditions.
• Support compliance with facility operating procedures, discharge permits, and environmental requirements.
• Follow all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company safety policies.

Qualifications

Preferred Experience

• Forklift operation
• Skid steer or compact loader operation
• Tanker loading, unloading, pump, hose, and liquid transfer operations
• Industrial processing or material handling equipment
• Wastewater, sludge, grease trap, FOG, or organic waste handling
• Mechanical troubleshooting and minor equipment repairs

Preferred Industry Background

Experience in one or more of the following industries is highly preferred:

• Industrial or municipal wastewater treatment
• Septic or grease trap services
• Food or beverage manufacturing
• Used cooking oil (UCO), rendering, or recycling operations
• Industrial manufacturing
• Chemical processing
• Composting or landfill operations
• Tanker transportation or liquid material handling

A hands-on industrial background is strongly preferred. Candidates should be comfortable working around wastewater, treatment chemicals, outdoor conditions, odors, and physically demanding operations.

Preferred Skills & Qualifications

Candidates with experience in any of the following are highly desirable:

• Operating DAF systems, screw presses, centrifuges, or similar separation equipment
• Knowledge of pumps, valves, piping, hoses, and tank systems
• Adjusting chemical dosing based on treatment performance
• Wastewater sampling, pH testing, and operational recordkeeping
• Mechanical troubleshooting and preventative maintenance
• Receiving and inspecting tanker loads
• Forklift certification or documented industrial equipment experience
• Strong housekeeping and 5S practices
• Ability to work independently and proactively identify operational issues before downtime occurs
• Strong communication skills with the ability to report operational concerns promptly

Schedule

• Facility operates primarily Monday through Friday.
• Typical shift start times are approximately 2:00 AM or 6:00 AM, depending on operational needs.
• Candidates should be available for occasional overtime, schedule adjustments, limited Saturday work, and emergency coverage when required.

Work Environment

This position works in an industrial processing facility handling wastewater, septic, grease trap waste, and used cooking oil (UCO). Employees should be comfortable working around odors, treatment chemicals, outdoor weather conditions, wet environments, and industrial processing equipment.

The work is physically demanding and may require standing for extended periods, lifting, climbing, and working in a fast-paced operational environment.

What We're Looking For

The strongest candidates demonstrate ownership of the operationnot just the ability to operate equipment. We are looking for someone who will proactively monitor tank levels and treatment performance, maintain production throughput, identify issues before they cause downtime or overflows, keep the facility clean and organized, and communicate effectively with leadership to ensure safe and efficient operations.

What we offer:

• Mission-driven work in a rapidly growing sustainability company
• Opportunities for professional growth and learning
• Collaborative, values-driven team culture
• Competitive salary and benefits

Why You'll Love Working at Denali- Benefits & Perks

At Denali, the work we do begins and ends with you our employees. That's why we strive to ELEVATE you to be your best, both at work and at home. Our benefits aren't just about compensation; they're part of a broader commitment to helping you thrive in all aspects of life. Here's how we live out our values every day:

• E Employee : At Denali, we believe in offering competitive compensation packages that include not only great benefits but also a strong focus on safety, flexibility , and rewards and recognition . You are the backbone of our success, and we make sure you're valued every step of the way.
• L Learning : We're committed to your growth and development . Our