Operates plant to store, distribute and treat water including purifying water for human consumption and removing wastes from sewage.

• Controls flow of raw water into plant, by regulating electric motors, pumps and valves; adds specified amounts of chemicals and activates agitators to mix chemicals. carries out such tests as are required in accordance with training given; allows impurities to settle and removes them by filtering water through filtering material; pumps purified water into mains, monitors flow and distribution; cleans tanks and maintains equipment, and makes minor repairs; pumps waste water into oxidation/settling ponds; removes sludge; burns off gases, treats and discharges waste water when it reaches the required levels of purity.

• Works inside or outside the waste water or water treatment plant to regulate inflows and outflows and carry out other required tasks.
• Works in all weathers in conditions that may include strong odours and chemical fumes. Protective safety equipment will be worn as necessary.

• Medium physical work demand
• Stands frequently while operating pumps, filters or other equipment or performing maintenance. Walks frequently to ensure pumps and other equipment are functioning properly and valves or other controls are adjusted correctly.
• Occasionally stretches up or across to complete some tasks.
• Squatting, crouching kneeling is occasionally necessary when working at pumps, adjusting valves, carrying out maintenance work or collecting samples.
• Twisting of the body or neck is not required.
• Skin irritation or breathing problems may occur in reaction to some of the chemicals used for water purification and treatment.
• Occasionally lifts and carries chemicals, tools and other equipment when carrying out maintenance work, adjustments to controls, or cleaning.
• Bending is occasionally needed to check equipment, control valves or take samples.
• Repetitive movements may be required in the operation of machinery, maintenance work or the keeping of records.
• Driving is not required.
• Uses hand tools, both manual and mechanical when adjusting the treatment equipment and for maintenance tasks.
• Mental skills needed are practical, technical, recording and problem-solving skills.

An NZQF Level 4 qualification, or at least three years of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 3). In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification. Registration or licensing may be required.

• There are opportunities for flexibility of movement but they are limited.