Filtration Plant Operators - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, water treatment plant operators:

Have a high level of job-required social contact. They interact with coworkers throughout the day.
Are responsible for the work done by the workers they supervise.
Are responsible for the health and safety of the public.
Communicate with coworkers daily by telephone or in person.
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Work in a group or as part of a team.

Work both indoors and outdoors. They may work in buildings that do not have air conditioning or heat.
Always wear protective or safety attire, such as gloves.
Are always exposed to contaminants, such as dangerous gases.
Are exposed to equipment noise and odors that are distracting and uncomfortable on a daily basis.
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Work in enclosed equipment on a daily basis.
Are often exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures while working outdoors. They often work outdoors in structures that have a roof, but no walls.
Are often exposed to hazardous situations which may produce cuts or burns.
Are often exposed to hazardous equipment or conditions, such as malfunctioning equipment or slippery walkways.
Are often exposed to diseases or infections from wastewater.
Are sometimes exposed to cramped work places that require getting into awkward positions.
Work with other people, but usually have many feet separating them from others.

Must be sure their work is exact. Errors or oversights could seriously endanger the environment or the public's health.
Repeat the same physical activities.
Make decisions on a daily basis that strongly impacts the public. They rarely consult a supervisor before making a decision.
Must sometimes allow the work pace to be set by the speed of the equipment.
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Rarely consult a supervisor before setting tasks for the day.
Must meet strict deadlines on a weekly basis.

Generally do not have a set schedule each week. Their schedules depend on the weather.
Usually work more than 40 hours a week.
Usually work one of three eight-hour shifts and weekends and holidays, on a rotating basis.
May be required to work overtime during emergency conditions.