Industry Profile -- by Erin Ryan-Walsh

Also known as H2O, aqua, eau and the elixir of life, water is a necessary element for human survival. Because water is so essential it is important to understand how water works. From the taps to the toilet, there are a wide variety of people who work with water ensuring our water is palatable and that our sewage system is sanitary.

Positions in the water/wastewater industry range from plumbers to ecologists to hydrometric technicians. Although all of these positions involve manual dexterity, mechanical aptitude and good communication skills, the required level of education varies. Most of these positions requires a post-secondary degree or at the very least an apprenticeship. The following is a brief overview of positions available in the water/wastewater industry.

Water Well Drillers set up and operate mobile rotary, boring or cable tool drilling rigs used to drill residential, commercial or industrial water wells. These people work indoors and outdoors and sometimes their work is noisy and dirty. In order to work in this industry you need to be strong, have mechanical aptitude and the ability to work alone or with others. Water well drillers are often trained on the job and through an apprenticeship.

Hydrometric Technicians provide technological support for hydrologists and related scientists or engineers. Often these people, also called water quality technicians, work independently and alternate between office work and field work. To work in this field you need the ability to record detailed material in an organized and detailed fashion, have good communication skills, be able to work well independently and enjoy working outdoors. Most hydrometric technicians have related post-secondary education.

Hydrologists study the movement and distribution of water on land, under ground, and in the atmosphere. Also called water scientists, hydrologists may spend as much time on field work as they will in a lab. These people must be able to deal with complex scientific details and concepts, and be able to work individually or in a team environment. A four-year bachelor degree is a minimum requirement.

Civil Engineers work in a variety of areas one of which is as water resource engineers. These people design systems that collect, store and distribute water. In order to work in this field you should have good communication skills and the ability to analyze data. In order to be a civil engineer you must obtain a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering.

Ecologists, also known as habitat biologists, study the relationships of living things to one another and to their environment. Ecologists need to have excellent communication skills, an interest in nature and the ability to learn quickly. This position requires at least one university degree, and because of the variety of work in ecology, the specialization of the degree varies.

Environmental Engineers design systems, processes and equipment for air, water and soil quality control, solid waste disposal, and the remediation of contaminated soil, air and water. These people, sometimes called water and wastewater engineers, need the abilities to think logically and solve problems, work independently and value decision-making opportunities.

Water Treatment Plant Operators monitor and operate control systems and equipment in water purification and treatment plants. People in this industry need to have mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity and good health and stamina. Most plant operators should have a high school diploma and should attend post-secondary programs in water treatment.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators monitor and operate control systems and equipment in plants dealing with wastewater, sewage treatment and liquid waste. People in this industry need to have mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity and good health and stamina. Most plant operators should have a high school diploma and should attend post-secondary programs in water treatment.

Plumbers plan, install and service plumbing systems, fixtures, piping equipment and controls. These piping systems may be used to transport water, waste, gases or hot liquids. In order to work in this industry you need to have mechanical aptitude and the ability to work independently. In order to work in this industry you must be a journeyman or apprentice plumber.