Operations technician, waterworks salary

Occupational Profile: Water Treatment Plant Operator

Water treatment plant operators play a crucial role in society's infrastructure by ensuring that the water supply is clean, safe, and reliable. Their responsibilities include monitoring water treatment systems, maintaining pumps and pipelines, and promptly addressing any operational disruptions or water quality issues.

Salary and Salary Development

The average salary for a water treatment plant operator in Sweden is currently 36 300 SEK per month. There has been an increase from the previous year when the average salary was 35 300 SEK. There is a noticeable gender pay gap where men earn an average of 36 500 SEK while women earn 34 300 SEK, meaning that women earn 94% of what men do.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a water treatment plant operator, a technical education is often required, typically at the vocational college level or equivalent, with a focus on process technology or plumbing technology. Knowledge of mechanics, hydraulics, and chemical water treatment is important. It is also advantageous to have good knowledge of automation and IT-related systems as many processes today are automated.

Employment Requirements

In addition to relevant education, practical experience is highly valued. Many employers prefer candidates who have worked on similar tasks, either through internships or previous positions. Skills such as problem-solving, decision-making, and the ability to work under pressure are necessary as the work environment can often be fast-paced and demanding.

Considerations

Working as a water treatment plant operator requires readiness to handle emergencies and operational disruptions even during inconvenient working hours. It is also important to be prepared to constantly update technical skills to keep pace with technological advancements in water treatment and system monitoring.

Benefits in the Profession

Many employers offer specific benefits to attract and retain qualified water treatment plant operators. These may include paid further education, which is particularly valuable in a technical and rapidly changing field like water treatment. Other benefits may include a work phone and the opportunity for flexible working hours, depending on the nature and requirements of the workplace.