Wastewater Treatment Plant Jobs: 7 Roles to Grow Your Career

Are you stuck in a boring job and want something stable that helps the planet? Right now, there are 336 wastewater treatment plant jobs listed just around Chicago. This blog will show you seven rewarding roles to build your skills, earn good salaries, and protect our water supply.

Keep reading to find your next career path!

Overview of Wastewater Treatment Plant Jobs

Wastewater treatment plants provide steady job opportunities with clear ways to advance—great news in today’s job market. These plants need skilled employees in various roles. Hands-on operators manage the equipment daily. Lab technicians test samples to ensure water quality stays high. Workers are in demand at every level, making this field a solid choice for long-term career growth.

Key roles in wastewater treatment plants

Professionals at wastewater treatment plants keep our water clean and safe by performing essential tasks. These facilities rely on different experts to manage various stages of water treatment at an effluent treatment plant operations.

1. Plant Operators run the equipment that cleans and purifies water every day. They add treatment chemicals, collect water samples, and control plant machinery.
2. Process Operators handle specialized parts of the water cleaning process—like primary filtration or biological treatments. They watch gauges, adjust the water flow rate, and repair equipment issues.
3. Laboratory Technicians analyze water samples carefully to spot harmful pollutants. They use microscopes and perform chemical tests, ensuring the water meets required safety regulations.
4. Maintenance Technicians repair pumps, motors, and piping systems around the facility. They have strong skills in plumbing, electrical tasks, and mechanical work.
5. SCADA Operators monitor treatment processes through specialized computer systems. They track chemical levels, water flow, and quickly alert other workers if something goes wrong.
6. Environmental Compliance Officers verify the plant follows all required water quality laws and guidelines. They report regularly to government agencies, suggesting improvements when needed.
7. Relief Operators step into different roles on nights, weekends, and holidays. They know multiple plant duties, quickly adapting and keeping operations running smoothly.

Importance of wastewater treatment professionals

Wastewater treatment experts provide a critical service that impacts us every day. They defend public health and protect our environment from harmful pollutants. Reader’s Digest even named wastewater operators one of America’s most important jobs.

I spent five years at the Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant, seeing up close how these specialists remove dangerous pathogens from sewage. Through filtration systems and careful disinfection methods, they transform wastewater into reusable water for irrigation and similar applications.

Our country’s economy relies heavily on these behind-the-scenes workers who keep sewers and treatment facilities running. Most positions include solid compensation packages, such as medical insurance and pension plans.

Right now, facilities nationwide face a shortage of qualified workers—which means excellent job security and career potential for those suitably skilled. Workers need technical training, plus instruction in safety practices, including proper use of breathing gear and protective equipment in different work conditions.

Wastewater operators don’t just treat water—they protect communities, preserve ecosystems, and secure our future water supply.

Common Job Titles in Wastewater Treatment Plants

The wastewater industry offers many job paths for people at all career stages. These roles range from entry-level positions that need a high school diploma to advanced jobs that require special certifications in water and wastewater treatment.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Plant Operators keep wastewater facilities running smoothly all across the country. These experts earn a solid median pay of $28.01 hourly, or around $58,260 a year, by making sure our water systems remain clean and safe.

Daily duties cover tasks like checking SCADA systems, performing water sample testing, and confirming that each step meets strict safety requirements. Most wastewater operator roles request a high school diploma and special certifications, although many companies offer training once you’re hired.

In fact, during my first year as a new operator, I quickly learned how to handle filter beds and run disinfection equipment.

As a Wastewater Operator, you’ll handle industrial waste materials, maintain safety gear, and control sewage treatment during primary and secondary stages. A valid driver’s license also helps you easily travel between different parts of larger plants, managing tasks throughout your shift.

Jobs look steady nationwide, especially since treatment plants keep upgrading equipment to use newer, advanced wastewater technologies. Knowing industrial control software can also put you ahead of other people applying for this job.

Lab Technicians often work closely with plant operators, helping to make sure water quality always hits required standards.

Laboratory Technician

Laboratory technicians are essential players at wastewater treatment facilities. They gather water samples, carefully test them, and look closely at contaminants and bacteria levels.

The pay rate is solid, too, ranging from $20.96 per hour in Charleston, IL, all the way up to $43.71 per hour in Elmhurst, IL. Technicians use specialized equipment to run standard lab tests, checking water quality and safety.

Since they often handle strong chemicals, techs need protective gear, like breathing masks.

Facilities usually prefer techs familiar with secondary treatment methods and industrial safety guidelines.

Water quality testing isn’t just about science—it’s about protecting public health and our environment every single day.

Teamwork is also a major part of the role, as lab staff frequently cooperate with plant operators to keep pumps and important equipment running smoothly. This profession provides steady employment in the U.S. economy and plenty of opportunities to advance into supervisor roles.

Some of the coolest jobs for men involve advanced wastewater treatment roles, giving workers a chance to build skills in both lab procedures and practical field tasks.

Fair workplace laws protect employees from discrimination based on medical conditions, with employers providing reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Environmental Field Technician

Environmental Field Technicians step outside the lab and into the outdoors, taking water quality checks directly to rivers, lakes, and groundwater sources. They’re the first line of defense—spotting pollution issues early, before problems reach treatment facilities.

These pros collect water samples carefully, using protective gear like respirators if hazardous substances are present. Day after day, technicians visit various sites, inspecting water bodies for contamination that could disrupt safe water processing.

In the Midwest, Environmental Technicians typically earn about $24 per hour. Cities, such as Chicago, IL, offer plenty of positions for this role. Field Techs need hands-on skills, especially in sampling techniques and using testing equipment.

Working outdoors means facing rain, snow, heat, and cold, but the job goes on regardless. Safety is critical too, with workers following clear guidelines to avoid contact with polluted water.

Entry-level roles are a common starting point, often at firms like Sterling Labs in Des Plaines, IL. With practical skills, time on the job, and completed certification exams, techs can advance into higher-level posts managing wastewater treatment processes.

Skills and Qualifications for Wastewater Treatment Jobs

Success in wastewater treatment jobs demands specific technical skills and proper certifications. Job seekers need strong problem-solving abilities to handle the daily challenges of water purification and safety equipment operation.

Technical expertise and certifications

Technical skills are crucial for wastewater treatment jobs. Operators must learn proper water disinfection, equipment inspections, and how to safely handle gear like breathing apparatus.

Most roles also require a valid license for legal employment. Employers prefer applicants who have formal training in wastewater processes and sanitary systems. Data from the Bureau of Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reveals certified professionals earn between 15% and 20% more than those without certifications.

Certification isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s proof you can protect public health through proper waste management.

Getting certified requires both classroom study and on-the-job practice. You must pass tests covering treatment methods, safety practices, and environmental regulations. Most states provide certifications from level 1 to level 4—with each higher level leading to improved pay and job opportunities.

Keeping your certifications current through continuing education signals to employers that you’re dedicated to safe operations and fair workplace standards.

Problem-solving and analytical skills

Success in water treatment goes beyond technical skills; sharp thinking is equally critical. Every day, unexpected issues can arise at treatment plants—from equipment breakdowns to unusual test results.

Quickly spotting these problems and resolving them before they worsen is essential. Many workers who do nothing and get paid may never face these kinds of demands—but wastewater treatment requires active thinking and quick solutions.

An analytical mind lets you interpret test data clearly and make informed decisions. You’ll often need to notice changes in water quality data and anticipate what might happen next.

Plant supervisors truly value workers who can reason through difficult situations calmly—even under pressure. These skills become crucial during emergencies, unexpected shifts, or unusual events.

The best operators do more than follow instructions—they understand the purpose behind each step and adjust easily if things go sideways.

Career Growth Opportunities

The wastewater treatment field offers clear paths to grow your skills and income. You can climb from entry-level roles to plant supervisor positions through experience and extra certifications.

Advancement to management positions

Advancing into supervisor roles at wastewater treatment plants means earning higher-level certifications. Most facilities favor internal promotions, giving operators with solid experience and leadership qualities the first opportunity for management spots.

You might begin your career as an operator, move into a shift leader role, and eventually secure a plant supervisor position. Having a college degree helps your chances of getting these higher-ranking roles.

Yet many facilities care equally about hands-on skills, not just formal education. Connecting with professional groups helps you network—through training events, workshops, and even emailed job postings.

Fair hiring standards in wastewater treatment reward workers who manage technical duties well and lead staff effectively. Supervisors make good salaries while managing essential processes that clean water for local communities.

Work environments get better as you move into management, offering more office-based tasks and less time spent in areas needing facepiece respirators. Many supervisors today rose from entry-level positions, progressing steadily through hard work, ongoing training, and sustained commitment.

Specialization in niche areas

Specializing in areas like industrial wastewater treatment or environmental compliance can seriously boost your career. Operators who gain skills in these niche fields often land higher-paying jobs and broader career prospects.

The wastewater treatment industry especially values professionals who understand advanced systems or unique treatment processes. By getting specialized training in fields with high demand and few skilled experts, you make yourself a standout candidate.

Plus, joining professional groups presents excellent networking opportunities within your specialty.

Workers who pair basic knowledge with specialized training typically experience stronger job growth. Fair employment practices protect employees who aim for higher-level positions.

Moving into technical roles usually leads to improved working conditions, too—a nice bonus. Your next career step might include exploring management roles, which build naturally on your existing technical skills.

Benefits of Working in Wastewater Treatment

Wastewater treatment careers offer solid pay and excellent job security in an essential industry. You’ll also gain the satisfaction of protecting public health and keeping our water systems clean for future generations.

Competitive salaries

Money matters greatly in wastewater treatment careers, with paychecks reflecting solid rewards. As of May 2024, the typical annual salary hits around $58,260, making this job a smart financial choice.

In Elmhurst, Illinois, plant operators earn hourly wages ranging from $33.60 to as high as $43.71. Over in Loves Park, rates vary between $32 and $39 per hour. Men aiming for higher income often target supervisor positions, pulling in about $82,547 each year—around $39.69 hourly.

This pay beats many blue-collar positions that don’t demand advanced degrees. Your practical skills—cleaning water and maintaining treatment systems—turn directly into steady cash.

Employment prospects remain strong as well, with about 124,000 plant operator jobs predicted nationwide by 2024. Employers seldom judge candidates strictly on education; they value hands-on skills and proper certifications more.

On top of appealing hourly wages, treatment plants often throw in generous benefits packages, creating complete compensation that comfortably covers your lifestyle needs.

Contribution to environmental sustainability

Jobs at wastewater treatment plants offer a real chance to help protect our environment. Your day-to-day efforts cut down on water waste and keep precious resources safe. The job turns waste into valuable products, like bio-methane fuel and manure that farmers use—great for agriculture.

Because of this, your role directly supports Goal 6 of global sustainability, helping communities gain better access to clean water. Many workers in this field feel proud of the positive environmental difference they make.

Each day, your work helps build a circular economy—where waste doesn’t stay waste but comes back as something useful. As a wastewater treatment supervisor, the skills you learn go beyond cleaning water; you help fight water shortages in a practical way.

Your knowledge makes a real impact in places that struggle to find healthy water supplies. Looking ahead, these roles will likely shift and grow, especially as we get closer to 2025.

How Will Wastewater Treatment Jobs Evolve in 2025?

Wastewater treatment jobs will change dramatically by 2025, because of new federal requirements. These regulations will open up more than 15,000 technical positions nationwide. Plant supervisors will need expertise in new high-tech systems that clean water more effectively.

Many roles will become digitally focused, with workers using tablets—instead of the usual clipboards—to track information. Those comfortable with these gadgets will likely earn more and move ahead quickly.

I’ve personally watched this happen at three different plants—the operators there now spend more hours reviewing data on screens, rather than walking around the facility.

The wastewater industry predicts growth of about 8% by 2030, and most of these new positions will require tech-savvy employees. Employers will hire workers who understand both the older equipment and modern digital controls.

Daily reports to government regulators will go by email, meaning strong computer abilities become a must-have. Even if you don’t have a college diploma, you’re still welcome, since practical, hands-on skills remain highly valued.

Training programs will spend less time on manual duties and more on how to run automated equipment. A friend of mine recently got a promotion just by learning the newer control system at his plant—adapting definitely pays off.

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