Water and Wastewater Plant Operator
Water and wastewater plant operators control the pumping of water for supply and storage. They treat water to purify it or to remove waste in order to meet various national standards.
Water and wastewater plant operators may perform the following tasks:
- operate pumps, valves and gates to control the flow of water or effluent
- regulate water flow through stages of the treatment such as filtering, the addition of chemicals (e.g. polymers) and aeration
- receive, load and unload chemicals
- monitor flow meters, pressure gauges, power usage and effluent water quality
- take samples and carry out routine analysis
- prepare reports and log details of plant operation
- perform routine servicing and cleaning of water storage facilities, plants and pipes, and repair faults in water supply and storage systems
- service the distribution system leading from the treatment plant
- operate and maintain facilities of the plant, reservoirs and dams
- supervise staff and assist with training of new operators
- conduct school and visitor inspections
- receive, monitor and respond to remote alarms
- operate waste disposal or water purification equipment
- operate locks and adjust the water level in weirs
- control and monitor the biological treatment plant process.
Specialisations:
With experience and sometimes further training, it is possible to become a leading hand, supervisor or manager.
Water and wastewater plant operators may specialise in the fields of water treatment, wastewater treatment or maintenance of distribution and collection systems.
Water and wastewater plant operators often work outdoors and sometimes work in remote areas. In treatment plants, which are 24-hour operations, shift work is required.
Personal Requirements:
- enjoy technical and engineering activities
- physically fit.
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