A water plant manager is in charge of the operation of the water treatment plants as well as the water pollution control plant systems through subordinate engineering and technical supervisors. A water plant manager is also in charge of devising a maintenance program which plant facilities will adhere to and also makes sure that water treatment processes being used abide with legal and environmental standards.
The academic requirements needed in order to become a water plant manager is a bachelor's degree program with major course work in sanitary, civil, chemical, electrical, or mechanical engineering. The degree must come from an accredited college or university in order for it to be considered.
In order to be an efficient and effective water plant manager, knowing the basics of controlling water pollution, the processing operations of water treatment plants and equipment are also a must. Knowing the basic principles of administration and practices related to operating a large water utility plant is also a must. Knowing federal and state rules which are related to water and waste water treatment is also needed for the job.
Knowing and practicing principles on sanitation as well as the roles and functions of a supervisor, supervisory principles and practices are needed in order to be a water plant manager. Other skills needed for the job include a working knowledge of employee and labor relations, how to operate and manage a large water utility, as well as knowing the different methods of processing bio-solids and their effects on the environment.
A successful water plant manager must also posses the knowledge and skills in applying engineering and administrative knowledge to complex engineering and operational problems, is always ready to prepare and discuss engineering reports, as well as create and maintain effective working relationships with people involved in the operation of the water plant well as the general public.
Usually, a water plant manager needs to undergo training as needed in order to be able to perform the tasks necessary for the position. Before applying for the position of a water plant manager, it is important to know what duties and responsibilities are involved in the position. Being honest with your boss about unfamiliar aspects of the work will help you and your boss. You'll be able to transition into the position much, much, easier and your boss will be able to identify strengths and weaknesses that are related to the position. You and your boss will also be able to communicate better on what is expected of you from the job and what you can and cannot do but are willing to learn about.
Some companies require that an applicant for the water plant manager position have at least 5 years of related experience, especially in the field of engineering, or could be from the construction or renovation of water treatment plants.
Some companies also require that the water plant manager has at least 2 years of secondary supervisory experience or have experience in overseeing the plant operant operation or maintenance of a water treatment plant.
Not a lot of people know that a water plant manager is a job that is wanted and in high demand all over the world. The United Kingdom, Qatar, and the United States are just some of the countries where there is high demand for a skilled and experienced water plant manager.
A wastewater treatment plant manager in the United States can expect an average salary of around $66,000 to $85,000. Some states in the United States pay more depending on the person's experience and years of service.