Water treatment technician

water treatment operative process controller process operator water quality technician water treatment operator water treatment worker
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Construction and building
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Career outlook for water treatment technician

UK Salary Ranges

Entry-level

£17,000

Experienced

£32,000


Currently employed in Scotland

1,200

Salary information is provided by the "National Careers Service". "Oxford Economics" supplies job forecasts and employment figures. Due to COVID-19 the jobs market is constantly changing. Some of the information may not reflect the current situation.

What's it like?

You would use the equipment in a water treatment plant to make water clean and safe for people to drink.

You could also process sewage, chemicals and other waste to make it safe.

You would:

  • Use equipment such as sludge processing and pumping stations
  • Clean and look after septic tanks, filters and other equipment
  • Make small repairs and report major problems to engineers
  • Add chemicals to treat the water
  • Check and record water and gas levels

You would need to be willing to work difficult hours, and to follow strict health and safety rules at all times.

Working conditions

Hours

You would usually work 37 hours a week, often as part of a shift pattern including nights and weekends. Overtime may be available.

Environment

You may work in a control room, or in water treatment areas which could be indoors or outside. The job can be physically demanding and may involve working at heights or in confined spaces. Conditions may be wet, dirty and smelly, although you would be provided with protective clothing and equipment.

UK employment status

Full-time

100%

Part-time

0%

Self employed

0%

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  • Resourceful
  • Observation
  • Attention to detail
  • Implementing ideas
  • Taking initiative
  • Analysing

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Entry requirements for courses can change. Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you'll need.

Qualifications

There are no formal qualifications required to enter this role, however a good general education may be useful.

You may undertake a Modern Apprenticeship leading to a relevant Scottish Vocational Qualification Water Industry Operations (SCQF level 3). Entry requirements for a Modern Apprenticeship vary but employers may ask for qualifications at SCQF level 4/5. 

Useful subjects

  • English
  • Maths
  • Science subjects, in particular chemistry
  • Technologies subjects such as engineering science

You will also need

if you are to operate machinery as part of your role, you will need to be at least 18 years old.

You should be physically fit.

Helpful to have

A driving licence.