Main Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Water Operator
A Water Operator is a professional who ensures the safe and reliable supply of clean water to communities and industries. They play a critical role in operating and maintaining water treatment and distribution systems, as well as monitoring water quality to meet regulatory standards. In this blog post, we describe the primary responsibilities and the most in-demand hard and soft skills for Water Operators.
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Main Responsibilities of a Water Operator
The following list describes the typical responsibilities of a Water Operator:
Adhere to
Adhere to all safety policies and practices.
Adjust
Adjust and repair waterworks equipment under the direction of a qualified tradesperson.
Adjust chemical dosing and disinfection systems to maintain proper water treatment.
Analyze
Analyze and resolve operating anomalies on the installations of a waste water treatment plant.
Apply
Apply and / or ensure the application of the safety plan instructions for a plant.
Assist in
Assist in developing the skills of their staff.
Assist in individual performance assessments.
Assist in other areas of plant as needed.
Assist in Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System (SCADA) system development and upgrades.
Assist in the design and installation of new water treatment equipment and systems.
Assist in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures for water treatment plants.
Assist in the development and implementation of water quality improvement plans.
Assist in the performance of plant equipment and machinery.
Assist in the supervision and training of less experienced operators.
Assist in water conservation efforts and leak detection programs.
Assist maintenance personnel with pump, motor, valve, etc., removal and repair.
Assist the maintenance department mechanics, when needed.
Assist with cleanup and housekeeping tasks for work area and equipment.
Assist with duties of Laboratory Technicians as needed, and assists with computer input.
Assist with duties of Operators as needed.
Assure
Assure the transmission of information to the people or departments concerned.
Attend
Attend all facility safety and job trainings.
Carry out
Carry out adjustments to the installations of a waste water treatment plant.
Carry out simple on-site tests to check the discharge compliance.
Carry out the evacuation and dewatering of sludge.
Carry out the routine operation of a waste water treatment plant's installations.
Carry out the routine upkeep of the materials and equipment of a waste water treatment plant.
Check
Check and maintain proper oil levels in equipment.
Check and maintain proper status of chlorination / de-chlorination equipment.
Check, clean and lubricate waterworks equipment.
Check flow patterns of water and sludge.
Check gas traps and drains accumulated liquids.
Check sludge temperature before and after circulation through heat exchangers.
Clean
Clean and maintain equipment on a regular basis.
Clean and maintain process equipment.
Clean and monitor the operations of automatic samplers.
Clean sewer mains, laterals and manholes of debris and sediment.
Clean the treatment and filtration systems.
Collaborate with
Collaborate with local authorities and agencies during water-related incidents or emergencies.
Collaborate with other operators and technicians to ensure smooth and efficient plant operations.
Collect
Collect and analyze samples using basic laboratory techniques.
Collect and analyze water samples to insure facility compliance with all regulatory requirements.
Collect and test water and sewage samples.
Collect and test water samples to determine concentration levels and impurities.
Collect samples and perform routine laboratory tests and analyses.
Collect samples and perform process related laboratory tests and analysis.
Collect samples, perform routine laboratory tests, analysis and calculations, and records results.
Collect wastewater samples for testing in the lab.
Communicate
Communicate data readings to ERM and client.
Compile
Compile data for monthly operating report to in house management and client management.
Complete
Complete and submit paper work / reports (manually and electronically) accurately and timely.
Complete daily log and required forms clearly and consistently.
Complete forms and various paperwork.
Complete time sheets and operational reports and invoices, as required.
Complete work sheets and forms.
Conduct
Conduct energy efficiency audits and implement measures to optimize energy consumption.
Conduct facility tours as necessary.
Conduct laboratory analytical testing for product quality assurance / control; and routine tests.
Conduct monthly inspections of tanks.
Conduct regular inspections of water treatment facilities to identify and resolve issues.
Conduct routine maintenance tasks on water treatment equipment.
Conduct routine water quality sampling, testing and analysis.
Conduct training and provide guidance to new operators or technicians.
Conduct water distribution system inspections and maintenance activities.
Conduct weekly checks of the treatment plant.
Conduct weekly inspections of oil-water separator(s).
Control
Control the quality of water discharged into the natural environment.
Control the working time of the personnel assigned to them.
Coordinate
Coordinate laboratory analysis with appropriate lab.
Coordinate with laboratory personnel to ensure accurate water sample collection and analysis.
Coordinate work on the equipment or installations of the wastewater plant.
Detect
Detect and report operating anomalies on the installations of a waste water treatment plant.
Determine
Determine the parameters for adjusting the waste water treatment installations.
Diagnose
Diagnose basic operational problems and take corrective action per procedure.
Ensure
Ensure all work is performed in compliance with relevant standards, legislation and regulations.
Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and environmental regulations.
Ensure conformance to process specifications.
Ensure permit conditions are met.
Ensure proper operation of stand-by-generators.
Ensure safety standards are met.
Ensure that labor reporting is accurate and balances with labor tracking system.
Ensure that the facility operates within permit compliance, at / above design.
Ensure the cleanliness of the equipment and the work area.
Ensure work practices, processes and systems are in compliance.
Enter
Enter data into the computer; and take telephone calls.
Fill
Fill oil reservoirs to proper levels.
Fire
Fire hydrant repairs and fire hydrant flow testing.
Follow
Follow process control procedures for assigned areas.
Follow U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
Handle
Handle the equipment of a waste water treatment plant's installations.
Implement
Implement safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment.
Inspect
Inspect and clean lift stations facilities and grounds.
Inspect pumps, sump pumps, ventilators, and air supplies.
Install
Install, troubleshoot and read water meters, as applicable.
Interpret
Interpret lab and monitoring data to determine system operation and compliance with discharge permit.
Interpret laboratory results (internal and external) and makes adjustments as necessary.
Interpret meter and gauge readings; and test results to determine processing requirements.
Interpret the operation of a waste water installation from its equipment and schematic.
Investigate
Investigate and resolve customer complaints related to water quality or supply.
Keep
Keep a record of work performed, location and condition of the equipment.
Keep complete, accurate, legible records of all equipment and plant maintenance.
Keep complete, accurate, legible records of all phases of facility operations.
Learn
Learn to perform calculations for process control and process optimization.
Learn to use the facility System Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to monitor processes.
Maintain
Maintain accurate records for timesheets.
Maintain accurate records of water treatment operations and test results.
Maintain a clean and organized work environment.
Maintain and inventories tools.
Maintain a variety of records and reports related to wastewater system operations.
Maintain control of operation events.
Maintain effective communication with team members, supervisors, and stakeholders.
Maintain equipment maintenance records and reports.
Maintain, installs, repairs, and troubleshoots mechanical equipment.
Maintain inventory and order supplies necessary for water treatment operations.
Maintain, operates and inspects wastewater distribution and wastewater collection system assets.
Maintain, operates and inspects water distribution and wastewater collection system assets.
Maintain process equipment to include electronic components and controls.
Maintain records of plant operations including, but not limited to, hourly.
Maintain shift log and record meter and gauge readings.
Maintain the facility chemical inventory and delivery records.
Make
Make chemical feed rate changes based on jar testing, flows, and pollutant concentrations.
Manage
Manage and motivate their team.
Measure
Measure sludge depths and trouble shoots the sludge pumping system.
Model
Model professional behavior.
Model and teach finding cost effective solutions to tasks.
Model safe work practices and provides leadership in achieving safety goals.
Monitor
Monitor and analyze data related to water quality and treatment processes.
Monitor and carry out the routine upkeep of pumping systems.
Monitor and control water treatment processes to ensure the production of clean and safe drinking water.
Monitor and document operating conditions / observations and data in shift log daily.
Monitor and record operating conditions observations and data in respective shift / area logs.
Monitor chemical feed equipment, operates solids processing equipment.
Monitor control panels, adjusts valves and gates.
Monitor control panels and adjusts valves and gates manually or by remote control to regulate flow.
Monitor gauges, meters, and control panels.
Monitor, interpret, and reports data from the plant SCADA systems.
Monitor operating conditions, meters and gauges.
Monitor process chemical supplies and recommend reorder.
Monitor wastewater treatment processes for effectiveness.
Monitor water storage levels and pressure in distribution systems.
Observe
Observe variation in operating conditions.
Operate
Operate and maintain boilers and incinerators.
Operate and maintain computerized systems for water treatment process control.
Operate and maintain pumps, valves, and other equipment in water treatment plants.
Operate and maintain vehicle in accordance with company procedures and policies.
Operate and maintain water distribution system and respond to alarms and abnormalities.
Operate and maintain water plant.
Operate and manage facility operations staff with limited supervision.
Operate a variety of equipment and hand power tools.
Operate equipment to purify and clarify water or to process or dispose of waste.
Operate, maintains, installs, repairs, and troubleshoots process equipment.
Operate personal computers to input data and statistics for operational and regulatory reports.
Operate plant to meet all regulatory guidelines and responsibilities.
Operate vehicles for plant operational purposes.
Operate vehicles such as forklift, loader, skid steer and dump truck for plant operational purposes.
Operate vehicles such as trucks, forklifts, loaders, carts, etc. for plant operational purposes.
Optimize
Optimize the operation of a waste water treatment plant.
Oversee
Oversee and ensure the efficient operation of the anerobic digester.
Oversee work assignments to ensure that schedules are met.
Participate in
Participate and complete training programs within the time frame allotted.
Participate in and complete all in-house training programs.
Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance water treatment processes.
Participate in emergency response drills and develop contingency plans.
Perform
Perform all scheduled maintenance, service, and new installations of water treatment equipment.
Perform basic laboratory tests, as needed.
Perform daily operation rounds, preventative maintenance task and grounds keeping.
Perform emergency shift coverage as required.
Perform equipment cleanings and general maintenance.
Perform fire guard duty and confined space watch.
Perform general maintenance on equipment.
Perform grab and go field tests in order to adjust chemical dosages for processes.
Perform grab and go field tests in order to adjust pro cess chemical dosages for systems.
Perform hand excavation, backfilling, restoration works, concrete work and pipe laying.
Perform instrument calibration for portable meters including equipment found in the process Lab.
Perform job duties in a safe manner compliant with policies, procedures and practices.
Perform laboratory analysis.
Perform lab tests applicable to permit testing and related reports per procedure.
Perform lab tests applicable to permit testing and reporting per procedures.
Perform minor electrical maintenance functions.
Perform monthly (minimum) air stripper cleaning and effluent sampling (drager tubes).
Perform operational tasks to ensure that all water quality and quantity requirements are maintained.
Perform preventive maintenance and cleaning.
Perform preventive maintenance on all equipment.
Perform routine and preventative maintenance and maintenance related items as assigned.
Perform routine lab tests.
Perform routine maintenance work.
Perform testing, calibration checks, maintenance, and repair to facility equipment.
Perform wastewater quality and system tests and takes corrective actions.
Perform waste water treatment operating functions.
Perform water quality and system tests and takes corrective actions.
Perform water quality tests to assess parameters such as pH, turbidity, and chlorine levels.
Prepare
Prepare chemical solutions and services automatic samplers.
Prepare / maintain necessary records of Wastewater operating activities.
Prepare reports and records testing results.
Provide
Provide day-to-day monitoring of equipment, routine lab test, and minor maintenance activities.
Provide feedback to Supervisor on labor, material and equipment demands needed to achieve schedule.
Provide labour support as needed.
Provide plant operational support to the process coordinator.
Read
Read and adjust pressures and flows for seal water.
Receive
Receive and proceed with the transfer of chemical treatment products.
Receive bulk chemical deliveries and use forklift to unload totes and drums.
Recognize
Recognize and report operating anomalies immediately to the Lead Operator.
Record
Record daily events and conditions in the facility log book.
Record daily meter reading and operations log for reporting.
Record meter and gauge readings and operational data.
Record observations and data in area shift log.
Report
Report potential problems to supervisor on a timely basis.
Report to work as scheduled, on time and prepared to work.
Respond to
Respond to alarms and emergencies, such as equipment malfunctions or water quality issues.
Respond to service calls relating to water quality, meter installations, sewage backup.
Restart
Restart equipment in the event of power outages.
Run
Run daily lab analysis at the plant and the distribution system.
Search
Search, locate and repair reported water leaks.
Stay updated on
Stay updated on industry regulations and best practices in water treatment and distribution.
Take
Take part the successful maintenance, testing, and monitoring of water mains.
Take samples from waste water installations.
Test
Test proper operations of residual analyzers, and chlorination / de-chlorination.
Track
Track chemical usage on a monthly basis.
Train
Train team members to troubleshoot and resolve problems.
Troubleshoot
Troubleshoot and diagnoses operational problems and takes corrective action per procedure.
Troubleshoot and repair equipment malfunctions and leaks.
Understand
Understand and follow all safety, health, and environmental requirements.
Use
Use a variety of testing equipment and procedures.
Utilize
Utilize computer programs related to the maintenance, operation and communication functions.
Utilize SCADA system to monitor and operate facility.
Verify
Verify and reports suspected malfunctions and variances to supervisor.
Verify and reports suspected malfunctions and variances to supervisor and takes corrective actions.
Most In-demand Hard Skills
The following list describes the most required technical skills of a Water Operator:
Knowledge of water treatment processes and equipment.
Understanding of water quality parameters and testing methods.
Competence in water treatment plant operations and process control.
Familiarity with chemical dosing and disinfection systems.
Proficiency in operating and maintaining pumps, valves, and other equipment.
Knowledge of water distribution system operations and maintenance.
Understanding of water quality regulations and compliance requirements.
Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation for water treatment processes.
Familiarity with laboratory testing procedures and equipment.
Competence in troubleshooting and repairing equipment malfunctions.
Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures in water treatment operations.
Understanding of environmental regulations and water resource management practices.
Proficiency in using computerized systems for process control and data management.
Knowledge of water conservation techniques and leak detection methods.
Understanding of water storage and distribution system hydraulics.
Proficiency in inventory management and supply ordering.
Familiarity with energy efficiency measures in water treatment operations.
Competence in using maintenance tools and equipment.
Knowledge of emergency response procedures and incident management.
Proficiency in computer software for data recording and report generation.
Most In-demand Soft Skills
The following list describes the most required soft skills of a Water Operator:
Strong attention to detail and accuracy in work.
Effective communication and teamwork skills.
Problem-solving and analytical thinking abilities.
Adaptability and flexibility in a dynamic work environment.
Ability to work under pressure and handle emergencies calmly.
Time management and organizational skills.
Continuous learning mindset and willingness to update knowledge.
Accountability and responsibility in carrying out duties.
Strong work ethic and commitment to public health and safety.
Positive attitude and customer service orientation.
Conclusion
A Water Operator is responsible for ensuring the safe and reliable supply of clean water to communities and industries. They require a combination of technical skills, such as knowledge of water treatment processes and equipment, as well as essential soft skills like effective communication and problem-solving. By fulfilling their responsibilities and possessing the required skills, Water Operators contribute to the well-being and health of communities by maintaining high-quality water supplies.
