A wastewater treatment plant operator works at a waterplant. Some work in government-controlled facilities while others are employed in the private sector. Every sanitary company requires a wastewater treatment plant operator, which makes this career one of the highest in demand within the wastewater management field. Since most companies require a high school diploma, training is usually provided on the job. Due to today's high pollution control and sanitary standards, postsecondary training for wastewater treatment plant operators is becoming increasingly important. Although it's still common to get this job with a high school diploma, having postsecondary training makes employees much more desirable. Furthermore, forty-nine states require wastewater treatment plant operators to pass exams to prove that they are qualified for the job.
Although wastewater treatment plant operators are not required to have advanced education degrees, their jobs are extremely important. In today's world, clean water is a necessity. It keeps people healthy and maintains a safe environment for fish and wildlife. Clean water is also used in every industry from the hospitals to manufacturing plants. For this reason, wastewater treatment plant operators need to be responsible and knowledgeable individuals that take their responsibilities seriously. They are on the frontlines of keeping water clean and disposing of waste without harming the environment.
The specific daily duties of a wastewater treatment plant operator vary depending on the waterplant where they work. In general, they oversee daily operations and ensure that treatment processes are completed according to strict guidelines. Wastewater treatment plant operators check meters and gauges on a daily basis, often several times a day. They are responsible for reading them, interpreting the results correctly, and adjusting them when necessary. The goal is to keep equipment working correctly. In addition to keeping an eye on the machinery, they also test water to make sure that it is clean and safe.
Wastewater treatment plant operators are trained to spot technical breakdowns, and make minor repairs. They are required to know how to respond to an emergency and what steps must be taken if one does occur. They know how to use special equipment should an emergency arise and how to remain calm and collected under stressful conditions.
Wastewater treatment plant operators work with a variety of equipment. Today, most rely on computers to aid them in their tasks. They are basically responsible for running the waterplant where they work according to sanitary and technical guidelines. Hardworking employees are often rewarded with higher positions as they gain experience. Due to the demand for wastewater treatment plant operators and the nature of the work, it is one of the most popular and rewarding careers in the wastewater management industry today.
