If you’re driven to preserve the environment by keeping contaminants out of the water, becoming a wastewater operator might be your calling. We all need clean water to survive. Water treatment professionals have a responsibility to see that we receive it. Read on to find out how to become a water treatment operator and what it’s like to work at a water treatment plant if you’re thinking about pursuing this career.
Wastewater treatment involves the cleaning of contaminated water. To ensure that customers receive safe, clean water in their homes and places of business, many moving parts collaborate to break down contaminants in wastewater. Wastewater operators oversee operations at water treatment plants. They control other plant workers, run machinery, and oversee the facility’s general operations.
How to become a wastewater technician
It takes a combination of education, certification, and training to become a wastewater technician. There are several common steps you can take to start your career as a wastewater technician even though there isn’t just one way to do it. Think about the following actions before deciding whether to pursue a career as a wastewater technician:
1. Earn your high school diploma
The majority of employers believe that a high school diploma is the minimum level of education needed to become a wastewater technician. They typically also accept diploma equivalents, such as a GED. You could become a technician with some training and no additional education.
2. Attain an associate or bachelors degree
Some employers prefer their wastewater technicians to have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field, though it’s not always required. Having a college degree can often reduce the amount of training you might need in the workplace. Wastewater management, environmental engineering, and environmental sciences are a few majors that are helpful for beginning a career as a wastewater technician, though many science and engineering majors can provide the knowledge and training required for the position. Check out the job descriptions at a nearby treatment plant because educational requirements can change.
3. Acquire a certification or license
Your training can be even shorter by obtaining a wastewater technician or operator certification or license. Although there are certifications and licenses available, each state has different requirements and titles. Finding out the precise requirements for your potential employer through research is helpful. Additionally, it can aid in locating the certification courses and programs that are best for you.
Consider learning about the licensing requirements in the state where you intend to work since each state has its own requirements. Some states permit the transfer of licenses between states. However, some states demand that you obtain a local license before becoming a wastewater technician if you relocate there.
4. Join a professional organization
Professional associations can facilitate your networking with people in your field. By joining one, you can increase your network in the sector. This can have several benefits, including:
5. Find wastewater treatment employment
Look for jobs as a wastewater technician at nearby treatment facilities, or in areas where you might commute or relocate. Remember to look for entry-level positions at the plant as well if you are just starting out or are finding fewer opportunities. Many treatment facilities offer entry-level jobs that only call for a high school diploma, but they also provide the chance to train for and advance into more responsible positions, like wastewater technician.
6. Gain on-the-job training
Before working as a wastewater technician, it can be helpful to get on-the-job training regardless of your level of education. After being hired by a treatment plant, you can receive on-the-job training that includes shadowing or assisting experienced technicians to learn the best ways to complete the necessary daily tasks. Most employers still demand this training even if you have a college degree, certification, or both, though frequently they demand less of it.
What is a wastewater technician?
A wastewater operator, also known as a wastewater technician, performs a variety of tasks during the wastewater treatment process. They primarily concentrate on ensuring that the machinery and procedures used to treat wastewater function as intended. A thorough understanding of the treatment procedure is used by technicians to ensure that their team operates accurately and safely. They do this by accomplishing several daily tasks, including:
Wastewater specialists make sure that people have access to clean, safe water in their homes. For the benefit of their community and the environment, they also assist with the treatment and disposal of wastewater that is drained from homes. Depending on the size and location of the treatment plant, the specific responsibilities in these processes can change. While technicians in larger plants may share their responsibilities with other technicians, those in smaller plants may have more responsibilities.
Salary for a wastewater technician
Being a wastewater technician requires a variety of skills. Most of these focus on scientific comprehension and mechanical knowledge. Consider the following when looking for abilities that will advance your career as a wastewater technician:
Wastewater technician education
Wastewater technicians have several educational options available to them. Although a high school diploma is generally regarded as the minimum requirement by employers, some prefer an associate’s or bachelor’s degree Although it is not required, a master’s degree can help you advance beyond the position of wastewater technician. A degree and a certification together can help you complete your training even faster.
What does it take to be a water treatment plant operator?
FAQ
Is water treatment a good career?
Fortunately for you, a career in water treatment or distribution can provide you with this level of financial independence along with great pay. The median annual salary for a Water Treatment Plant Operator in 2010 was $40,770, which equates to about $19 per hour. 60 per hour.
What state pays wastewater operators the most?
Our research put California at no. One of the highest paying states for waste water plant operators is California.
What is STP technician?
Operate or manage an entire procedure or network of devices, frequently with the aid of control boards, in order to transfer or treat water or wastewater. Sewage Treatment Plant Operator Career Job Description for Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators.
How do I become a wastewater operator in California?
You must satisfy the minimal education and experience prerequisites, pass a written test, and be awarded a certificate. For a summary of the training and education required for each grade, please see the Certification Requirements. Please consult the exam schedule for information about upcoming exam dates.
