Top 5 Careers in the Water/Wastewater Industry

The water and wastewater treatment industry is crucial in Canada’s natural resources sector and the world market.

Canada is the 8th-largest water market globally with a global reputation for excellent water quality and technologically advanced water and wastewater technologies.

To meet the growing water demand, there needs to be spots filled for various types of positions in the water and wastewater industry.

Below are my top 5 highlighted career paths in the water and wastewater industry that make an essential impact on water quality and availability in Canada.

1. Water Treatment Plant Operator

• Median salary CAD: $65,894/year
• Job description: Water treatment plant operators control and monitor the flow and processing of water or wastewater by operating equipment such as valves, pumps, and generators. They adjust treatment processes based on test results and operating conditions, collect samples, perform laboratory analyses, and maintain water treatment equipment.
• Some required skills:
  • SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) Systems
  • Reverse osmosis
  • Equipment operation and maintenance

2. Water Resources Engineer

• Median salary (CAD): $93,600/year
• Job description: Water resources engineers plan and manage sustainable water systems by assessing water availability, modelling flow dynamics, and designing water supply and treatment systems to address community and environmental needs. They conduct environmental impact assessments, ensure regulatory compliance, and develop strategies to minimize ecological risks while optimizing water resource usage. They also analyze the effects of population growth and climate change to inform long-term plans for resilient water infrastructure.
• Some required skills:
  • HEC-RAS (Hydrologic Engineering Centers River Analysis System)
  • AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • GIS (Geographic Information Systems)

3. Water and Wastewater Technician

• Median salary (CAD):  $65,894/year
• Job description: Water and wastewater technicians are responsible for ensuring the efficient operation of water supply, distribution, and wastewater treatment systems to provide safe potable water and effective wastewater management in compliance with regulatory standards and industry best practices. Key duties include performing maintenance and preventative inspections of facilities and equipment, maintaining accurate operational records, and conducting laboratory tests to monitor water quality and process control. Technicians may also assist in training junior staff, developing operational procedures, and ensuring the cleanliness and safety of facilities under their care.
• Some required skills: 
  • Water quality control analysis
  • Preventative maintenance
  • Pipe maintenance and repairs

4. Water and Wastewater Laboratory Technologist

• Median salary (CAD):  $65,894/year
• Job description: Water and wastewater laboratory technologists develop comprehensive water quality monitoring plans, inspect sites for contamination, and collect and analyze water samples to ensure regulatory compliance. They operate and maintain sampling equipment, interpret water quality data, and adjust treatment processes such as chemical feed rates to optimize disinfection and suppress taste and odour issues. Additionally, they manage treatment and distribution systems, prepare detailed reports, monitor compliance with environmental standards, and engage with the public on water quality concerns and emergencies.
• Some required skills: 
  • Gas chromatography
  • Field sampling and monitoring
  • Data interpretation and reporting

5. Manufacturer Technician

• Median salary (CAD): $65,520/year
• Job description: Manufacturer technicians in the water/wastewater treatment industry play a crucial role in producing, testing, and inspecting equipment to ensure quality and functionality. They document production processes, troubleshoot issues, and contribute to operational efficiency, often supporting advancements in technology and prototype development. Moreover, they provide essential technical support to service technicians and water treatment specialists, enabling efficient system maintenance and innovation.
• Some required skills: 
  • Mechanical assembly and fabrication
  • Statistical process control
  • PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) Programming

The water and wastewater treatment industry is essential to the Canadian natural resources sector. The careers shown in this blog that contribute to Canada’s strong reputation in this industry are only a glimpse of the various types of careers that the water and wastewater industry has to offer. As demand for water services rises, more water/wastewater careers will need to be fulfilled to foster resilient water systems and provide clean drinking water to Canadians.

NOTE: Please note that the job requirements for each highlighted career path may vary depending on the company that is offering opportunities for these career paths. Moreover, the salaries for these career paths depend on the city or province you are located in, educational attainment, and the companies’ stated salaries for these job opportunities.