Water Treatment Plant Operators

Career summary

Water treatment plant operators control equipment that removes or destroys chemicals, bacteria, or other harmful materials in water. They also operate pumps and valves that move water or wastewater through the treatment processes.

Plant operators read and adjust meters and gauges to make sure the plant equipment is working properly. They may make minor repairs to pumps, valves, and other equipment, using hand and power tools.

Operators run devices that feed chemicals into the water to treat it. They take samples of the water and analyze them in the lab. If necessary, they adjust the amount of chemicals, such as chlorine, in the water. They use a variety of instruments to sample and test water quality.

The specific duties of plant operators depend on the type and size of the plant. In smaller plants, one operator may control all the machinery, run tests, keep records, and do repairs. In larger plants with many employees, operators may control only one process. The staff may also include chemists, engineers, lab technicians, and mechanics.

Sometimes operators must work under emergency conditions. In these cases, operators use special safety equipment and procedures to protect the public health as well as the plant. They may work under pressure to correct the problem quickly.

Operators must be familiar with water pollution laws, and know how they affect their plant. They must also be aware of local and state guidelines.

Related careers

This career is part of the Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Chemical Equipment Operators
• Chemical Plant Operators
• Gas and Oil Plant Operators
• Power Plant Operators
• Printing Press Operators
• Pump Operators
• Ship Engineers
• Stationary Engineers

Military careers

• Water and Sewage Treatment Plant Operators

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to water treatment plant operators.

• Sample and measure water quality and perform lab analyses.
• Read, interpret, and adjust meters and gauges to make sure plant equipment is operating properly.
• Clean tanks and filter beds, using hand and power tools.
• Add chemicals to water and other liquids, such as ammonia.
• Maintain records of operational data, employee attendance, and meter and gauge readings.
• Make minor repairs to valves, pumps, and other equipment, using hand and power tools.
• May direct and coordinate other plant workers.
• May perform all water treatment duties, or monitor only one process.

Common work activities

Water treatment plant operators perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Evaluate information against standards
• Control machines and processes
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Process information
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Document and record information
• Get information needed to do the job
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Analyze data or information
• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Use computers
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Repair and maintain electronic equipment
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Teach others
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Develop goals and strategies
• Perform for or work with the public
• Monitor and control resources
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Handle and move objects
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Think creatively
• Coach others
• Guide, direct, and motivate others
• Assist and care for others
• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Schedule work and activities
• Perform administrative tasks
• Resolve conflicts and negotiate with others

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, water treatment plant operators:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a high level of job-required social contact. They interact with coworkers throughout the day.
• Are responsible for the work done by the workers they supervise.
• Are responsible for the health and safety of the public.
• Communicate with coworkers daily by telephone or in person.
• Work in a group or as part of a team.

Physical work conditions

• Work both indoors and outdoors. They may work in buildings that do not have air conditioning or heat.
• Always wear protective or safety attire, such as gloves.
• Are always exposed to contaminants, such as dangerous gases.
• Are exposed to equipment noise and odors that are distracting and uncomfortable on a daily basis.
• Work in enclosed equipment on a daily basis.
• Are often exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures while working outdoors. They often work outdoors in structures that have a roof, but no walls.
• Are often exposed to hazardous situations which may produce cuts or burns.
• Are often exposed to hazardous equipment or conditions, such as malfunctioning equipment or slippery walkways.
• Are often exposed to diseases or infections from wastewater.
• Are sometimes exposed to cramped work places that require getting into awkward positions.
• Work with other people, but usually have many feet separating them from others.

Work performance

• Must be sure their work is exact. Errors or oversights could seriously endanger the environment or the public's health.
• Repeat the same physical activities.
• Make decisions on a daily basis that strongly impacts the public. They rarely consult a supervisor before making a decision.
• Must sometimes allow the work pace to be set by the speed of the equipment.
• Rarely consult a supervisor before setting tasks for the day.
• Must meet strict deadlines on a weekly basis.

Hours/travel

• Generally do not have a set schedule each week. Their schedules depend on the weather.
• Usually work more than 40 hours a week.
• Usually work one of three eight-hour shifts and weekends and holidays, on a rotating basis.
• May be required to work overtime during emergency conditions.

Physical demands

Water treatment plant operators frequently:

• Stand for long periods of time.

It is important for water treatment plant operators to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for water treatment plant operators to be able to:

• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.

Skills and abilities

Water treatment plant operators need to:

Communicate

• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand spoken information.
• Understand written information.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.

Reason and problem solve

• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Identify what must be changed to reach goals.

Use math and science

• Use math skills to solve problems.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with things

• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Operate and control equipment.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.
• Maintain equipment on a routine basis. Determine when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
• Repair machines or systems.
• Determine the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.

Perceive and visualize

• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Water and Wastewater Treatment Technology

Other programs of study to consider

• Environmental Engineering Technology
• Process Technology
• Water Resources Engineering
• Water, Wetlands, and Marine Resources Management

Training

To work as a water treatment plant operator, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete long-term, on-the-job training; and
• pass state or local licensing exams.

Education after high school

Some water treatment plant operators complete a formal training program. Professional-technical schools and two-year colleges offer programs in water quality. In this type of program you learn the basics of water and liquid waste treatment. Training programs offer a certificate or associate degree.

On-the-job training

Most water treatment plant operators learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. Even if you complete a formal training program, you also need to complete on-the-job training. As a trainee, you begin by recording meter readings and testing water samples. As you gain experience, you learn to maintain and repair pumps and valves. You also learn safety procedures. Training may last up to two years.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently set minimum standards for certification of drinking water treatment plant operators. Most state drinking water and water pollution control agencies offer training courses to improve your skills and knowledge.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be water and sewage treatment plant operators. Training lasts eight to ten weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate. Try to take as many Chemistry classes as you can.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Computer Fundamentals
• Equipment Maintenance and Repair
• Natural Resource Management

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Most employers require plant operators to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Most prefer applicants who are competent in math, chemistry, and biology. Formal training may increase an applicant's chances of being hired. Employers look for applicants who have completed an associate degree or one-year certificate in water quality and wastewater treatment technology.

Some positions, especially in larger cities and towns, are covered by civil service regulations. Applicants for these jobs may be required to pass a written exam. This exam tests basic math skills, mechanical aptitude, and general intelligence.

Operators must understand biological, physical, and chemical characteristics of wastewater. Experience reading and interpreting government regulations is useful. A background or familiarity with motors, pumps, and electronics is helpful. Employers may also look for candidates who are interested in learning and who get along well with others. A valid Washington driver's license or Commercial Driver's License (CDL) may be required for some jobs.

Tips

Those willing to volunteer or work less desirable shifts, and work in smaller communities or outside Washington, may have better employment prospects. Technical training that includes hands-on experience is helpful. A bachelor of science degree with coursework in microbiology, environmental science, biology, chemistry, geology, and geography can be helpful. Experience working in a related field, such as with a contractor or in a large mobile home park, may also be helpful.

Maintain a balance between classroom/book knowledge and experience. Enhance your technical skills. Become fluent in the use of the most common types of software.

For entry into the field, the following is recommended: one year of formal education in waste water technology, certification as a wastewater treatment plant operator in training by the Washington Department of Ecology, current first-aid/CPR certification, current flagging certification, and traffic control certification. For advancement in the field, work in a number of different positions and facilities, especially those with a variety of wastewater treatment methods. Use continuing education to advance your knowledge and obtain higher degrees.

Costs to workers

Some workers are required to join a union and pay an initiation fee and monthly dues.

#Took over national content to delete comments that basic computer skills are usually needed. Seems like a general job requirement now, 2/28/17 cj.

Licensing/certification

Certification by the State of Washington is required. The level of certification depends on the size and classification of the treatment plant. To become certified, appropriate education or training, work experience, and passing a written examination are necessary. Continuing education is required for the certificate renewal.

For more information, contact:

Washington State Department of Ecology 
PO Box 47696
Olympia, WA 98504-7696
360.407.6449

#2/18/20

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Water and Liquid Waste Treatment Plant and System Operators 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Wages vary by area of the country. Operators who work at water treatment plants in big cities tend to earn more. The operator's level of experience and training also affect wages.

Operators usually receive benefits that include health and life insurance, paid vacation, and a retirement plan. Some employers also pay for job-related training courses.

Employment and outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Local government agencies (water treatment agencies)
• Water supply services

National outlook

Demand for this occupation will decline. As water and wastewater treatment plants become more advanced with automated systems to manage treatment processes, fewer workers may be needed. However, plants will still need skilled workers to operate increasingly complex controls.

While this occupation has a low turnover rate, it also has a low number of applicants for jobs. Thus, qualified applicants should have good job prospects.

Other resources

American Water Works Association 
6666 West Quincy Avenue
Denver, CO 80235
800.926.7337
303.794.7711

International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials 
4755 East Philadelphia Street
Ontario, CA 91761
909.472.4100

National Association of Wastewater Technicians 
2800 W. Higgins Rd. Suite 440
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169

National Ground Water Association 
601 Dempsey Road
Westerville, OH 43081
800.551.7379

Technology Student Association 
1904 Association Drive
Reston, VA 20191-1540
888.860.9010

Washington Business Week 
PO Box 1170
Renton, WA 98057
253.237.3545

Water Environment Federation 
601 Wythe Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
800.666.0206

References

Career cluster

• Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupation

• Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators (51-8031.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

DOT occupations

• Clarifying-plant Operator (955.382-010) 
• Pump-station Operator, Waterworks (954.382-010) 
• Waste-treatment Operator (955.382-014) 
• Wastewater-treatment-plant Operator (955.362-010) 
• Water-treatment-plant Operator (954.382-014) 

Holland occupational cluster

• Realistic/Conventional/Investigative

COPSystem

• Science Skilled