Water operators are responsible for running pump stations and water treatment facilities, and oversee that our tap water---which comes from streams, reservoirs and the ground---is sanitized and safe to drink. The specific duties a water operator performs depend on a number of factors, including the size of the plant or facility, and the amount of experience the operator has. However, general duties can be specified that most, if not all, water operators can be expected to perform.
Monitoring
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics at BLS.gov, water operators are responsible for monitoring the meters and gauges of various motors and pumps, as well as the overall performance of equipment. This monitoring process also involves the regular recording of the data they gather. Even slight errors in equipment performance could result in microorganisms, chemicals and other potentially harmful materials contaminating water supplies, which makes monitoring an extremely important duty.
Testing
In addition to monitoring, water operators are also responsible for performing various tests to ensure that all treatment processes are functioning properly. According to the Minnesota Rural Water Association, this involves gathering and testing wastewater samples for their compositional characteristics, as well as charting lab results so that data can be easily analyzed. The main goal of testing is to determine the quality of the water, so that any necessary adjustments can be made.
Operating and Maintaining Machinery
Water operators, as the job title suggests, are also responsible for the regular operating of machinery, which---according to the Minnesota Rural Water Association---includes instrumentation for pumps, valves, motors and filters, as well as flow meters and recorders. Often, the adjustments that are made depend on monitoring and testing results. In addition, water operators are responsible for maintaining equipment, which involves cleaning wet wells and pump stations, as well as making general repairs.
Responding to Emergencies
According to BLS.gov, water operators may occasionally be called in for emergencies. These might include rain or snow storms that cause sewer systems to overflow, or equipment malfunctions inside of facilities that result in a chemical leaks or other hazards. According to the above source, most water operators are specially trained to respond to such emergencies, and are required to utilize the appropriate safety equipment (which might include a hazmat suit).
Adhering to Regulations
Almost all jobs require that you adhere to a specific set of rules or regulations as your perform your duties (which is a duty in itself). For water operators, this means adhering to the standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which regulates the quality of wastewater and tap water. According to BLS.gov, all water operates must become certified or licensed through state-specific programs and, in some instances, are required to keep records to document their adherence to the EPA regulations.
