The Role of a Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator

Water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators play a crucial role in ensuring clean drinking water and proper disposal of wastewater. The job involves operating and maintaining treatment equipment and processes to purify water and remove contaminants before distribution.

Job examples

There are different types of treatment plants that operators can work in, serving different populations. Some examples include:

• Drinking water treatment plants
• Wastewater treatment plants
• Industrial water treatment facilities
• Potable water distribution systems

Some of the tasks a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operator may carry out include:

• Monitor equipment and perform routine maintenance checks
• Adjust valves and controls to regulate water flow and chemical levels
• Analyze water samples for quality assurance and control
• Follow safety procedures to avoid accidents or environmental damage
• Ensure all systems comply with state and federal regulations

Educational Requirements

Most water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators obtain an associate’s or vocational degree from a community college or technical school that offers classes in water treatment, chemistry, mathematics, and environmental studies. Some states may require additional certifications or licenses to operate and maintain treatment plants, while others may only require on-the-job training.

The requirements for becoming a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operator may vary by state and employer. In some instances, a high school diploma with extensive experience in manufacturing or skilled trades may be enough to qualify.

Career Progression

Operators can progress between the levels of their career as they gain more knowledge and experience. Here are some of the common levels:

• Entry-level Operator
• Plant Operator
• Senior Plant Operator
• Lead Operator/Supervisor
• Plant Manager/Director

To advance to the next level, an operator may need to complete additional training, obtain a higher level of certification or license, or gain several years of on-the-job experience. Some positions may also require formal education in management or business.

Getting Started

If you’re interested in a career as a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operator, there are a few steps you can take to prepare for the job:

• Attend a community college or technical training program that offers courses in water treatment and environmental studies.
• Consider completing an apprenticeship program or on-the-job training to gain practical experience and skills.
• Obtain any necessary certifications or licenses required by your state or employer.
• Volunteer or intern at a water treatment facility to gain hands-on experience.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and regulations by attending conferences and workshops.

Overall, becoming a water and wastewater treatment plant and system operator requires a combination of education, experience, and certifications. The role is critical for public health and the environment, providing a rewarding career option for those interested in science, technology, and environmental management.

Water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators are responsible for the operation and maintenance of facilities that treat and distribute water and/or processes wastewater. Their main duties include monitoring equipment, adjusting chemical treatments, and performing routine maintenance tasks. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the national average salary for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators is $51,563.20 to $69,596.80, depending on level of experience and whether they are in a union or nonunion position.

Unionization in this occupation can have a significant impact on job benefits and salary. Unionized workers in this field earn on average $64,417.60 to $65,187.20, while nonunion workers earn an average salary of $50,148.80 to $43,742.40. Full-time workers generally earn more than part-time workers, with an annual salary range of $55,806.40 to $69,576.00 depending on level and type of employment.

The geography in which a water and wastewater treatment plant operator works can also impact their salary. For example, those working in the New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA metropolitan area earn a significantly higher average salary of $82,368.00 for unionized workers. In contrast, those working in Mississippi earn a lower average salary of $38,542.40 for nonunion operators.

Below is a data table summarizing the salary data for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators in the United States:

| Salary Data | Average Salary (per year) |
|———————————————————————-|——————————|
| Level 05 (All workers) | $51,563.20 to $47,632.00 |
| Level 06 (All workers) | $69,326.40 to $64,792.00 |
| Level 07 (All workers) | $68,577.60 to $69,243.20 |
| Not able to be leveled (All workers) | $52,998.40 to $49,836.80 |
| Entry (All workers) | $48,838.40 |
| Experienced (All workers) | $69,596.80 |
| Union (All levels) | $64,417.60 to $65,187.20 |
| Nonunion (All levels) | $50,148.80 to $43,742.40 |
| Full-time (All levels) | $55,806.40 to $52,416.00 |
| Full-time Level 05 | $51,563.20 to $47,777.60 |
| Full-time Level 06 | $69,326.40 to $64,792.00 |
| Full-time Level 07 | $68,577.60 to $69,243.20 |
| Full-time Not able to be leveled | $53,081.60 to $50,211.20 |
| Full-time Entry | $49,046.40 |
| Full-time Experienced | $69,576.00 |
| Time-based pay (All levels) | $55,619.20 to $51,875.20 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA (Union, All levels) | $82,368.00 to $81,369.60 |
| Mississippi (Nonunion, All levels) | $38,542.40 |