Process technician, treatment plant etc.

What does a process technician in a wastewater treatment plant do? – Tasks and work environment

A process technician in a wastewater treatment plant plays a key role in ensuring that water purification processes operate efficiently and environmentally sustainably. Tasks include monitoring, controlling, and optimizing treatment processes, troubleshooting technical problems, as well as regular sampling and analysis of water quality. The job also involves maintenance of machinery and facilities, as well as reporting operational data to management and authorities. The work environment is often varied, combining indoor and outdoor work, with shifts and standby duties. Safety regulations and precision are central, as handling chemicals and advanced technology are part of everyday tasks.

Salary development over time

The profession of process technician in wastewater treatment plants has experienced stable and positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,300 SEK, increasing to 37 100 SEK in 2023 and further to 38 300 SEK in 2024. This represents a salary increase of about 5.5% during the period, slightly above the average growth for similar technical professions. This trend can be explained by a gradually increasing demand for technical expertise in water treatment and higher qualification requirements. Despite automation and technological development in the industry, there remains a continued need for qualified personnel, contributing to salary increases. Regional differences exist, but overall salary development has been similar across the country.

Process technician, wastewater treatment, etc. salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,700 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, post-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 42,200 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 230 SEK/hour (average, hourly worker)
• Gender differences: Men 38 500 SEK, women 36 600 SEK (women earn 95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Present but generally similar development across the country

Education and qualifications

To work as a process technician in a wastewater treatment plant, a technical high school diploma with specialization in process technology, industry, or environmental technology is usually required. Many employers also prefer post-secondary education, such as YH training in process technology or equivalent technical education. Practical experience and certifications in water treatment, automation, or operational technology are often advantageous. The educational path may vary depending on the employer and the technical level of the facility.

• High school education: Technology, industry, or natural sciences programs
• Post-secondary education: YH training in process technology (1.5–2 years) or equivalent technical education
• Certifications: Courses in water treatment, automation, or safety
• Internship: On-site learning during education is common
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of chemistry, mathematics, and technology is an advantage

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for process technicians in wastewater treatment plants include shift and standby allowances, extra vacation days, wellness contributions, and occupational pension. In some cases, further training, work clothes, and flexible working hours are also offered. Additional allowances may apply for inconvenient working hours or on-call duties.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a process technician in wastewater treatment plants is considered moderate, with a recruitment situation characterized by a balance between supply and demand. Over the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, partly due to technological development and increased automation in the industry. A challenge is to stay updated on new technical solutions and environmental regulations, while employers seek broad technical competence and flexibility. Attracting more women to the profession is also an ongoing challenge, as salary differences and gender distribution are still noticeable.

Tips for those who want to become a process technician in a wastewater treatment plant

To succeed as a process technician in a wastewater treatment plant, it is good to be curious about technology and have a genuine interest in environmental issues, as the work often involves problem-solving and development of treatment processes. Precision and responsibility are crucial qualities, especially when following safety routines and handling chemicals correctly. The ability to work independently and in teams facilitates daily tasks, which vary between monitoring, maintenance, and collaboration with colleagues. Flexibility is important since shift work and standby duties may occur, requiring adaptability. Continuously furthering your education and staying updated on new technology and environmental regulations makes it easier to tackle new challenges and develop in the profession. Good communication skills are also valuable, as reporting and collaboration with other professional groups are part of the job. Lastly, a solution-oriented approach contributes to effective handling of operational disruptions and technical challenges.

Key facts about process technicians in wastewater treatment plants

• Education level: High school or post-secondary technical education
• Work environment: Combined indoor and outdoor environment, often shift work
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 481 available jobs nationwide
• Special knowledge: Water treatment, process control, and chemical handling
• Gender distribution: Still male-dominated, but the proportion of women is increasing

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the role of process technician in a wastewater treatment plant, opportunities open up to advance to roles such as operations supervisor, team leader, or specialized process engineer. There is also the possibility to further educate in environmental technology or automation, which can lead to expert roles within larger facilities or consultancy. According to the latest forecast from the Employment Service, job opportunities are medium-sized and expected to remain stable over the next five years, partly due to ongoing technological development and automation. The industry offers stable employment conditions, and demand is largely driven by society’s need for clean water and sustainable development. With experience and further education, pathways to project management roles or work within authorities and environmental organizations are also possible.

Frequently asked questions about process technicians in wastewater treatment plants

• What does a process technician in a wastewater treatment plant earn?
  - The average salary is 38 300 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 230 SEK for hourly workers.
• What education is required to become a process technician in a wastewater treatment plant?
  - Usually, a technical high school diploma and preferably post-secondary education such as YH training in process technology are required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 95% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What is the job market like for process technicians in wastewater treatment plants?
  - The job market is balanced with medium-sized opportunities and approximately 481 available positions nationwide.
• What are the tasks of a process technician in a wastewater treatment plant?
  - Monitoring and controlling treatment processes, maintenance, sampling, and reporting are central tasks.
• What are the future prospects?
  - Demand for process technicians in wastewater treatment plants is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - Highest salary: 42,200 SEK, lowest salary: 30,700 SEK, depending on gender, sector, and education.