Operating staff, water purification

What does a water treatment operational staff do? – Tasks and work environment

Water treatment operational staff are responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining facilities that purify drinking water and wastewater. Tasks include daily operational checks, sampling, troubleshooting technical issues, and adjusting process parameters to ensure water quality meets environmental and health standards. The work is often performed in shifts, both day and night, involving physical activity and work in technical environments with advanced equipment. Safety and precision are crucial, as well as good teamwork skills, since the work is often carried out in teams.

Salary development over time

The salary for water treatment operational staff has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,300 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 37 100 SEK, reflecting an increase of approximately 2.2%. For 2024, the average salary has risen further to 38 300 SEK, corresponding to an approximate increase of 3.2% from the previous year. Overall, this represents a total salary increase of nearly 6% over the three-year period. This development reflects continued demand for qualified operational staff and increased complexity in tasks, driven by technological advancements and higher water quality requirements, which raise competence and salary levels within the profession.

Water treatment operational staff salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,700 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 42,200 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 230 SEK/hour
• Women: 36 600 SEK/month
• Men: 38 500 SEK/month
• Women earn: 95% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur, especially between larger cities and smaller towns.

Education and qualifications

To work as a water treatment operational staff, a technical high school education is usually required, preferably with specialization in process technology, environmental engineering, or similar. Many employers also seek post-secondary education in operation and maintenance technology, along with experience working in technical environments. Internships or trainee programs can be advantageous, and some employers offer internal training programs.

• High school education: Technical program or VVS and property management program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH training in operation and maintenance (2 years)
• Certifications: Some employers require certificates in areas such as occupational safety or process safety
• Internships/trainee: Practical experience through internships or trainee programs is often advantageous
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and some experience in operational work are common requirements

Common benefits and compensations

Water treatment operational staff are often offered benefits such as shift or overtime allowances, wellness contributions, work clothing, and sometimes extra vacation days. Some employers provide skills development, training, and opportunities for further education within technical or environmental fields. Occupational pension schemes and insurance coverage are standard in both municipal and private sectors.

Competition and challenges

The job market for water treatment operational staff is characterized by balance, according to the Swedish Employment Agency. There are medium opportunities for employment and approximately 481 available jobs nationwide. Over the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, largely due to technological development and increased automation. Challenges may include requirements for broad technical competence and the ability to quickly handle operational disruptions. Digitalization and new environmental standards also mean that the profession is evolving, placing higher demands on education and adaptability.

Tips for those who want to become water treatment operational staff

To succeed as a water treatment operational staff, it is good to combine technical interest with a practical work attitude. Attention to detail is crucial, as small mistakes can have significant consequences for water quality. Being resilient under stress helps when unexpected operational issues occur or when workload is high. Good teamwork skills are necessary since work is often performed in teams and requires smooth communication. Being solution-oriented helps you quickly identify and resolve problems, while an interest in environmental issues provides extra motivation. For those looking to develop in the profession, it is wise to take the initiative for further training and stay updated on new water treatment technologies.

Key facts about Water Treatment Operational Staff

• Education level: High school or YH education, often with a technical focus
• Work environment: Shift work in technical facilities
• Demand: Medium opportunities for employment, 481 available jobs nationwide
• Special skills: Process technology, environmental legislation, troubleshooting
• Typical employment type: Permanent or hourly employment

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a water treatment operational staff, opportunities open up to advance to roles such as process manager, supervisor, or process technician with specialized responsibilities, e.g., automation or environmental management. Some choose to further their education towards engineering roles or move into consultancy within water and wastewater technology. According to the Swedish Employment Agency's forecasts, the job market remains stable with unchanged demand over the next five years, despite some influence from technological development and automation. For those open to further education and new tasks, there are good chances for long-term career development within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about Water Treatment Operational Staff

• What does a water treatment operational staff earn?
  - The average salary is 38 300 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• What education is required to become a water treatment operational staff?
  - Usually, a technical high school or YH education in operation and maintenance is required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women have an average salary of 36 600 SEK, which is 95% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market outlook for the profession?
  - There are medium opportunities for employment and 481 available jobs nationwide.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries within the profession?
  - The highest salary is 42,200 SEK and the lowest 30,700 SEK per month.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, stress resilience, technical interest, and teamwork skills are central qualities.
• Is shift work necessary?
  - Yes, shift work is common as facilities are often staffed around the clock.