Water and waste treatment plant operators

Example job titles

• environmental systems operator - water treatment
• liquid waste process operator
• sewage plant operator
• waste treatment plant operator
• wastewater treatment plant operator
• water filtration plant operator
• water purification plant operator
• water treatment plant operator

Main duties

• This group performs some or all of the following duties:
• Water treatment plant operators
• Operate and monitor computerized control systems and related equipment in water filtration and treatment plants to regulate the treatment and distribution of water
• Monitor and inspect plant equipment and systems to detect equipment malfunctions and to ensure plant systems are operating normally
• Read flow meters, gauges and other recording instruments to measure water output and consumption levels, bacterial content, chlorine and fluoride levels
• Collect and test water samples for chemical and bacterial content, analyze test results and instrument readings and make adjustments to plant equipment and systems to ensure quality control
• Provide verbal or written instructions for process control changes to waterworks system to ensure water produced meets standardized quality requirements
• Perform security checks in plant and on grounds
• Respond to public enquiries regarding water quality issues and emergencies
• Complete and maintain plant logs, reports and statistics

Employment requirements

• Completion of secondary school is required.
• College or industry training courses in chemistry, pollution control or related subjects are usually required.
• Certification in water treatment and distribution (level according to the classification of the plant) is required for water treatment plant operators.
• Drinking water certification is required in Quebec and Ontario for operators whose work involves water treatment and distribution.
• Certification in wastewater collection and wastewater treatment (level according to the classification of the plant) is required for wastewater treatment plant operators.
• Solid waste, landfill or compost facility operator certification may be required for operators in waste treatment plants.
• Certification in workplace hazardous materials information system (WHMIS), transportation of dangerous goods (TDG), and courses in safety practices may be required.
• On-the-job training is provided.

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