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Water Treatment/Sewage Works Operator

Do you want to become a Water Treatment/Sewage Works Operator? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Water distribution or sewerage operatives install, repair and maintain the water distribution and sewerage systems which take water into peoples' homes and businesses, and sewage and wastewater away. Their role involves:

• planned maintenance work

• responding to emergencies, eg burst mains pipes and major leaks.

Operatives' duties involve:

• digging holes using machines and hand tools

• mending and cleaning pipes

• using CCTV to check pipes

• dealing with the public

• maintaining vehicles and equipment

• recording the details of jobs

• installing water meters, hydrants and stopcocks.

They will usually work 37 hours a week, and a shift system may operate. They will be required to work outside in all weathers and in cramped spaces, such as trenches and sewers. This involves contact with unpleasant smells and substances, and protective clothing must be worn.

Starting salaries are around £9,500, and experienced operators can earn about £15,000.

A water distribution/sewerage process operator should:

• be physically fit and prepared to work outside in all weathers

• have some numerical skills

• be able to use a computer when necessary

• be reliable and able to work unsupervised

• be able to use a variety of tools and machinery.

Qualifications are not always required, but some companies ask for GCSEs/S grades (A-E/1-5). There are no upper age limits for this type of work.

The water industry employs more than 27,000 people. Many jobs are contracted out by the large water companies to smaller firms. Opportunities exist throughout the UK.

Promotion is possible to supervisor or team leader, and involves being responsible for a small group of operators.

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