HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A typical path is to finish secondary school with courses in math, science, and computer or technology subjects, then look for a college or technical program related to water and waste treatment, such as land and water resources. Some employers may also accept related on-the-job training or a mix of classroom learning and work experience. After hiring, new workers usually learn plant systems, safety rules, sampling, record-keeping, and equipment checks under supervision. Requirements can vary by province, employer, and plant type, and some roles may expect prior experience in industrial or municipal operations.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Operate and monitor computerized control systems and related equipment in wastewater treatment, sewage treatment and liquid waste plants to regulate the flow of sewage through settling, aeration and digestion tanks, and to treat and dispose of sewage and wastes
- Patrol plant to check pumps, motors, filters, chlorinators and other plant equipment, monitor and read gauges, meters and other recording instruments to detect equipment malfunctions and ensure plant systems and equipment are operating within prescribed limits
- Collect waste and sewage samples, test and analyze results and make adjustments to plant equipment and systems as required
- Perform security checks in plant and on grounds
- Complete and maintain plant logs and reports
- May perform minor maintenance or assist skilled tradespersons with installation and repair of plant machinery.
SKILLS TO BUILD
Skills used in this Career
Attention to DetailsComputer LiteracyMachineryMonitoring