Experienced operators may transfer to related jobs with industrial wastewater treatment plants, water or wastewater treatment equipment and chemical companies, engineering consulting firms, or vocational-technical schools. Because the number of applicants in this field is normally low, job prospects will be good for qualified applicants. The increasing population and growth of the economy are expected to increase demand for essential water and wastewater treatment services. As new plants are constructed to meet this demand, employment of water and wastewater treatment plant operators will increase. In addition, some job openings will occur as experienced operators transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force.
Local governments are the largest employers of water and wastewater treatment plant operators.
However, industry deregulation has increased reliance on private firms specializing in the operation and management of water and wastewater treatment facilities. As a result, employment in privately owned facilities will grow much faster than the average. Increased pre-treatment activity by manufacturing firms will also create new job opportunities. In addition to their annual salaries, water and wastewater treatment plant operators usually receive benefits that include health and life insurance, a retirement plan, and educational reimbursement for job-related courses. Links to non-BLS Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.