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Water Treatment Plant and System Operators
Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Water Treatment Plant
and System Operators and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
control the equipment that helps keep our water useable. Water Treatment Plant
and System Operators treat water to make it drinkable. Wastewater Treatment
Plant and System Operators treat water to make it safe to release back into the
environment. Operators have to be able to read, interpret, and adjust meters
and gauges on the equipment they work with. They also are responsible for
taking samples, chemically testing the water, adding the proper mix of
chemicals, and make minor repairs to equipment. Computers are becoming an
integral part of this occupation. Operators now use them to help monitor
equipment and water, write reports, manage office work, and diagnose problems
with the system. To become a Waster or Wastewater Treatment Plant and System
Operator you need at least a High School diploma. A general knowledge of Math,
Chemistry, and Biology are necessary and for some positions you might have to
take a written exam that tests math skills, mechanical aptitude, and general
intelligence. They have to be able to apply data to formulas of treatment
requirements, flow levels and concentration levels. New employees usually learn
their skills on the job under the direction of another employee. If you earn an
Associates Degree or complete a 1 year certificate program in water quality and
wastewater treatment technology you will increase your chances of being hired
and promoted. Local governments employ most Plant and system operators and the
median salary in 2000 was $31,380.
Image used with permission from
Advanced Pollution Control Technology, Inc.
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