Before liquid waste is released back into the environment, wastewater treatment plants remove harmful contaminants. Sewage from private residences and industrial waste are both examples of liquid waste. Introduction to and supervisory wastewater operator positions in wastewater treatment plants involve the use of chemical and biological processes, as well as various equipment, to treat wastewater. This type of job can be found at both public and private wastewater treatment plants, such as small municipal water districts or commercial businesses that are required to send liquid waste to a wastewater treatment plant due to local and federal regulations like the Clean Water Act.
An entry-level wastewater operator will most likely have completed high school and received on-the-job training. At this level of the wastewater treatment plant, jobs may include reading meters and gauges, as well as working with the pumps and valves that move sewage through the system. Under the supervision of a more experienced wastewater operator, entry-level workers may also perform sample testing in the lab to ensure contaminants have been removed. Wastewater operators are in charge of repairing equipment and pipes. Small municipal wastewater treatment plants will likely handle a wide range of tasks, whereas larger facilities will have more focused responsibilities.
More education is beneficial for those seeking advanced wastewater treatment plant jobs. There are one-year certificates as well as two-year associate degrees available. Wastewater operators with more experience and education can take on supervisory roles, directing the tasks of novice operators. Upper-level positions carry a great deal of responsibility, as wastewater treatment is a precise science that necessitates great caution in order to protect the health and safety of both wastewater workers and the general public. Chemicals must be properly adjusted, and safety precautions must be strictly followed. Job opportunities in wastewater treatment plants are available at all levels, from operator to plant superintendent. Superintendents are in charge of ensuring that the entire plant is well-maintained and operated.
Work at a wastewater treatment plant frequently necessitates certification. The state regulates this certification, which typically requires continuing education credits and a passing score on a state exam. Wastewater jobs necessitate renewed certification and continuing education because wastewater treatment must be adjusted on a regular basis based on current environmental conditions. State and local regulations will require a different type of certification for some wastewater treatment plant jobs. To meet these requirements, professional organizations and public colleges may offer continuing education classes.