Wastewater Plant Operator
Wastewater plant operators play an essential role in water and wastewater treatment for communities. They ensure that the water is safe for citizens to use by purifying and clarifying water or disposing of sewage.
Career Details
Wastewater plant operators are involved in several tasks such as repairing, cleaning, maintaining, and inspecting equipment to ensure that all systems are functioning properly. They collect and test samples of water and sewage, employing analysis standards and testing equipment, to ensure treated water meets the EPA standards.
When you choose this career know that a plant operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you work for a small plant, you will likely work during the day and be on call at night and weekends.
For big plant employees, big plants require constant monitoring, so the plant operators will have to work in shifts.
Skills required for this career:
- Strong attention to detail
- Ability to work independently
- Excellent analytical skills
- Organizational skills
Study options:
- National Certificate: Water and Wastewater Treatment Process Operations (NQF Level 2)
- National Certificate: Water and Wastewater Process Control (NQF Level 3)
- Further Education and Training Certificate: Water and Wastewater Treatment Process Control Supervision (NQF Level 4)
- Water and Sanitation (N1-N3)
Employers:
- Government departments
- Water and wastewater treatment plants
- Utility companies