Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Ernie Poling has retired after 25 years of service with Greenville Utilities. Operators keep a constant watch on the plant along with 37 remote sites. Ernie helped monitor all aspects of the biological treatment process, which also included collecting samples from different points in the system for laboratory testing.

Ernie also assisted with the Dewatering Facility. Biosolids, the residue from the treatment process, are handled at this facility. It is an economical way to recycle our biosolids, which are transported to a company that mixes it with organic materials to produce environmentally-friendly compost.

Operators are required to go through a rigorous State certification process. Ernie is a Grade 4 (highest) Certified Wastewater Treatment Operator, Certified Land Application Operator, Certified Spray Irrigation Operator, and Licensed Plumbing and Heating Contractor.

Ernie says he not only enjoyed the people he worked with at the plant, but he liked that his “office” was both inside and outside. “I will certainly miss the comradery with the folks here at the plant,” said Ernie. “In all seriousness, we’re a tight-knit group, helping each other out when needed. It’s been pretty neat working here.”

Ernie’s wife, Sharon, also recently retired. They plan to spend more time traveling, especially to the beach, and visiting with their four children and nine grandchildren, all of whom live in North Carolina. Ernie also plans to enjoy more fishing and woodworking.

Good luck in retirement, Ernie. You will be missed!