Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Job Outlook
Employment of water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators is projected to grow 6 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
A growing population and increased demand for water and wastewater treatment services will drive employment growth. Population growth, particularly in suburban areas, will require new plants or increased capacity at current plants. As existing plants expand and new plants are built to meet this demand, new operator jobs will be created.
New regulations often require plants to install new systems or features that operators need to control. As plants become more advanced with automated systems to manage treatment processes, fewer workers may be needed in plants. Although some work can be automated, plants will still need skilled workers to operate increasingly complex controls and water and wastewater systems.
Job Prospects
Job prospects for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators should be excellent. Positions of older water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators who retire will need to be filled. Job prospects will be best for those with training or education in water or wastewater systems and good mechanical skills.
Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Total, all occupations
7%
Water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators
6%
Plant and system operators
0%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program