Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
SOC: 51-8031.00 · Job Zone 3 (Medium preparation)
Operate or control an entire process or system of machines, often through the use of control boards, to transfer or treat water or wastewater.
Wage & Employment (2024)
Median Wage
$58,260
per year
Mean Wage
$60,620
per year
Employment
127K
workers
Wage Range
$37,870 - $86,160
10th - 90th pct
Wage Distribution
Task Breakdown
8 tasks analyzed
Add chemicals, such as ammonia, chlorine, or lime, to disinfect and deodorize water and other liquids.
Collect and test water and sewage samples, using test equipment and color analysis standards.
Record operational data, personnel attendance, or meter and gauge readings on specified forms.
Operate and adjust controls on equipment to purify and clarify water, process or dispose of sewage, and generate power.
Inspect equipment or monitor operating conditions, meters, and gauges to determine load requirements and detect malfunctions.
Maintain, repair, and lubricate equipment, using hand tools and power tools.
Clean and maintain tanks, filter beds, and other work areas, using hand tools and power tools.
Direct and coordinate plant workers engaged in routine operations and maintenance activities.
| Task | Category | AI Capability | Risk Score | Time % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Add chemicals, such as ammonia, chlorine, or lime, to disinfect and deodorize water and other liquids. | - | - | - | |
| Collect and test water and sewage samples, using test equipment and color analysis standards. | - | - | - | |
| Record operational data, personnel attendance, or meter and gauge readings on specified forms. | - | - | - | |
| Operate and adjust controls on equipment to purify and clarify water, process or dispose of sewage, and generate power. | - | - | - | |
| Inspect equipment or monitor operating conditions, meters, and gauges to determine load requirements and detect malfunctions. | - | - | - | |
| Maintain, repair, and lubricate equipment, using hand tools and power tools. | - | - | - | |
| Clean and maintain tanks, filter beds, and other work areas, using hand tools and power tools. | - | - | - | |
| Direct and coordinate plant workers engaged in routine operations and maintenance activities. | - | - | - |
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