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C
CSWR
Water/Wastewater Operations & Maintenance Technician
Career Insights for Water Treatment Specialist / Waste Water Operator
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Based on Louisiana data
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What they do
A Water Treatment Specialist or Waste Water Operator operates and monitors equipment in facilities that treat wastewater. Monitors treatment processes so that water is cleaned to meet public health and environmental standards and is safe for drinking or releasing into the environment.
$51,308 / year median in Louisiana
-0% projected decline
Job Description
Position Summary The O&M Technician is responsible for inspecting, maintaining, troubleshooting, repairing, and installing mechanical, electrical, electromechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic equipment at water and wastewater treatment plants and pump stations. This position requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently while following established safety, operational, and environmental procedures. The O&M Technician may also serve as a lead and assist with training less experienced maintenance personnel. Major Job Duties Inspect, troubleshoot, repair, maintain, and install plant and pump station equipment. Diagnose mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic equipment problems and determine appropriate corrective action. Work with equipment including pumps, engines, generators, valves, gates, mixers, conveyors, blowers, dryers, chemical feed and odor control equipment, centrifuges, gearboxes, and other treatment equipment. Perform preventive and corrective maintenance, lubrication, adjustments, and equipment testing. Inspect flow meters, gauges, pressures, controls, instrument panels, computer terminals, and programmable logic control systems. Perform instrument calibration for portable meters, including dissolved oxygen, pH, H2S, percent oxygen, and lower explosive limit meters. Dismantle, repair, reassemble, and test equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation. Use hand tools, power tools, precision measuring equipment, and testing devices. Fabricate equipment and assemblies as needed; welding, pipe threading, and soldering may be required. Identify equipment malfunctions and report significant issues or variances to the appropriate supervisor. Perform general facility and grounds maintenance, cleaning, and waste disposal in accordance with safety and environmental requirements. Maintain accurate records and operate a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS). Travel frequently to perform equipment repairs, replacements, maintenance, and fabrication. Assist with maintenance inventory, parts, and spares as needed. Assist with orienting and training new or less experienced maintenance personnel. Perform other duties as assigned. Education, Experience & Requirements High school diploma or GED required. Vocational training and strong mechanical aptitude required. 10+ years of related experience in a similar environment preferred/required based on position level. Ability to read, understand, and follow operational, process, safety, and quality instructions. Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations. Ability to read and interpret specifications, blueprints, manuals, meters, gauges, panels, and other technical information. Experience maintaining, installing, and repairing mechanical, electromechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic equipment. Ability to use required PPE, including respirators, gas detectors, and confined-space equipment. Experience with CMMS or computerized maintenance management systems. Valid driver's license and safe driving record required. Commercial driver's license and heavy equipment operator license are desirable. Work Environment & Physical Requirements Work is performed primarily in an operations environment, including water and wastewater treatment facilities and pump stations. Frequent travel is required, with travel for the position expected to exceed 75%. May work outdoors and in inclement weather. Exposure to fumes, dust, chemicals, noise, rotating machinery, high-pressure equipment, extreme temperatures, slippery surfaces, water, and electrical hazards may occur. Ability to walk, stand, climb ladders and catwalks, and work at elevated heights. Ability to work in confined spaces when required. Ability to frequently use hand tools and work with hands extended above and below the head and body. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly and occasionally up to 60 pounds.