Salary Breakdown
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Average
$47,890
ANNUAL
$23.02
HOURLY
Entry Level
$36,600
ANNUAL
$17.60
HOURLY
Mid Level
$47,330
ANNUAL
$22.75
HOURLY
Expert Level
$61,350
ANNUAL
$29.50
HOURLY
Projected Jobs
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
3,200
Projected job openings through 2030
Sample Career Roadmap
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Supporting Programs
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Top Expected Tasks
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
01
Add chemicals, such as ammonia, chlorine, or lime, to disinfect and deodorize water and other liquids.
02
Collect and test water and sewage samples, using test equipment and color analysis standards.
03
Record operational data, personnel attendance, or meter and gauge readings on specified forms.
04
Operate and adjust controls on equipment to purify and clarify water, process or dispose of sewage, and generate power.
05
Inspect equipment or monitor operating conditions, meters, and gauges to determine load requirements and detect malfunctions.
06
Maintain, repair, and lubricate equipment, using hand tools and power tools.
07
Clean and maintain tanks, filter beds, and other work areas, using hand tools and power tools.
08
Direct and coordinate plant workers engaged in routine operations and maintenance activities.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Common knowledge, skills & abilities needed to get a foot in the door.
KNOWLEDGE
Chemistry
KNOWLEDGE
Biology
KNOWLEDGE
Mechanical
KNOWLEDGE
Mathematics
KNOWLEDGE
Public Safety and Security
SKILL
Operations Monitoring
SKILL
Operation and Control
SKILL
Monitoring
SKILL
Active Listening
SKILL
Quality Control Analysis
ABILITY
Oral Comprehension
ABILITY
Oral Expression
ABILITY
Near Vision
ABILITY
Written Comprehension
ABILITY
Deductive Reasoning
Related Careers
Energy & Utilities
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