Water and Sewage Treatment Plant Operators (Enlisted)
Opportunities
Military bases operate their own water treatment plants, which provide drinking water and safely dispose of sewage when public facilities cannot be used. Water and sewage treatment plant operators control processes and equipment that remove pollutants from the water so that it is safe to drink and can be returned safely to natural areas or be reused. Water and sewage treatment plant operators run the equipment, control the processes, and monitor the plants that treat the water.
Training Provided
Water and sewage treatment plant operators in the Military will gain skills through classroom study and on-the-job experience.
- Operation of water and sewage treatment systems
- Water testing and analysis
- Maintenance and repair of pumps, compressors, and other equipment
- Identification of health hazards
- Inspection of food products, food service operations, wastewater, and waste disposal facilities
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.
Earnings
Military pay and benefits are set by Congress, which normally grants a cost-of-living pay increase once each year. All members of the military receive "basic pay," which is the largest component of a member's pay. A member's grade (usually the same as rank) and years of service determines the amount of basic pay received. Enlisted members can progress through nine enlisted pay grades during their careers. In 2023, most enlisted personnel started as recruits at Grade E-1 ($23,011/year basic pay); however, those with special skills or above average education started as high as Grade E-4 ($30,042/year basic pay). In addition to pay, the military provides many of life's necessities, such as food, clothing, and housing, or pays allowances for them. Other benefits include health care, 30 days paid vacation, legal assistance, recreational programs, education assistance, and military store privileges.
Services offering this occupation
Air Force
Army
Marine Corps
Navy