Updated 2003

Details Report for:
51-8031.00 - Water and Liquid Waste Treatment Plant and System Operators

Operate or control an entire process or system of machines, often through the use of control boards, to transfer or treat water or liquid waste.

Sample of reported job titles: Water Treatment Plant Operator, Operator, Waste Water Operator, Process Operator, SCADA Operator (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Operator), Waste Water Treatment Plant Operator (WWTP Operator), Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator, Water System Operator

View report: Summary  Details  Custom

Tasks  |  Tools & Technology  |  Knowledge  |  Skills  |  Abilities  |  Work Activities  |  Work Context  |  Job Zone  |  Interests  |  Work Styles  |  Work Values  |  Work Needs  |  Related Occupations  |  Education  |  Wages & Employment

Tasks   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Category Task
86   Core Add chemicals such as ammonia, chlorine, or lime to disinfect and deodorize water and other liquids.
84   Core Operate and adjust controls on equipment to purify and clarify water, process or dispose of sewage, and generate power.
82   Core Inspect equipment or monitor operating conditions, meters, and gauges to determine load requirements and detect malfunctions.
79   Core Collect and test water and sewage samples, using test equipment and color analysis standards.
74   Core Record operational data, personnel attendance, or meter and gauge readings on specified forms.
62   Core Maintain, repair, and lubricate equipment, using hand tools and power tools.
59   Core Clean and maintain tanks and filter beds, using hand tools and power tools.
58   Core Direct and coordinate plant workers engaged in routine operations and maintenance activities.

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Tools & Technology   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Tools used in this occupation:

Air samplers or collectors — Air monitoring equipment; Emissions monitoring systems
Bacterial removal equipment — Air strippers; Fixed-film reactors
Chemical pumps — Chemical feed pumps; Chemical feeding equipment
Chlorine handling equipment — Dechlorination equipment; Disinfection chlorinators; Sulphonators
Hydrocarbons analyzers or detectors — Hydrocarbon analyzers; Total petroleum hydrocarbon TPH analyzers
Microcontrollers — Ion exchangers; Remote terminal unit pump control equipment
Mixers or agitators — Aerators; Agitators; Blowers; Flocculators
Nitrogen or nitrate or nitrite analyzer — Ammonium analyzers; Nitrate analyzers
Oil content monitors analyzers — Oil-in-water monitors; Total oil and grease analyzers
Organic carbon analyzers — Carbon analyzers; Total organic carbon TOC analyzers
Oxygen generators — Compressors; Diffusors
Turbidimeters — Suspended solid measurement equipment; Turbidity meters; Turbidity testing equipment
Ultrafiltration equipment — Backwash filters; Microstrainers; Trickling filter beds; Vacuum filters (see all 6 examples)
Water purification equipment — Flotation equipment; Rotating biological contactors
Water samplers — Composite samplers; Wastewater samplers

Technology used in this occupation:

Compliance software — Material safety data sheet MSDS software
Data base user interface and query software — Data logging software; Database software
Document management software — Records management software
Industrial control software — Human machine interface HMI software; Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software; Wastewater expert control systems
Time accounting software — Timekeeping software

See all 60 T2 categories

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Knowledge   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Knowledge
72   Biology — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
70   Chemistry — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
60   Public Safety and Security — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
59   Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
57   English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
51   Mechanical — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
44   Physics — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes.
42   Law and Government — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
40   Computers and Electronics — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
37   Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
35   Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
35   Engineering and Technology — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
33   Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
33   Production and Processing — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
32   Clerical — Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology.
30   Building and Construction — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
27   Geography — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
23   Telecommunications — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
22   Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
20   Communications and Media — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
15   Design — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
14   Medicine and Dentistry — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
14   Transportation — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
12   Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
10   Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
  Sociology and Anthropology — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures and their history and origins.
  History and Archeology — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
  Therapy and Counseling — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.
  Food Production — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
  Foreign Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
  Philosophy and Theology — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
  Sales and Marketing — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
No data available Fine Arts — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

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Skills   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Skill
78   Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
75   Operation and Control — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
72   Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
71   Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
69   Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
68   Operation Monitoring — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
66   Equipment Maintenance — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
66   Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
63   Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
62   Mathematics — Using mathematics to solve problems.
62   Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
61   Active Learning — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
57   Installation — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
57   Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
56   Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
55   Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
53   Instructing — Teaching others how to do something.
53   Management of Material Resources — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
53   Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
51   Complex Problem Solving — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
50   Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
49   Repairing — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
48   Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
47   Operations Analysis — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
47   Systems Analysis — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
45   Equipment Selection — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
44   Technology Design — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
43   Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
41   Time Management — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
40   Science — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
36   Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people.
29   Negotiation — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
29   Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
24   Management of Financial Resources — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
22   Persuasion — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.

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Abilities   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Ability
75   Near Vision — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
69   Problem Sensitivity — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem.
63   Control Precision — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
63   Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
60   Arm-Hand Steadiness — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
60   Information Ordering — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
60   Multilimb Coordination — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
60   Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
56   Inductive Reasoning — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
56   Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
53   Far Vision — The ability to see details at a distance.
53   Manual Dexterity — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
53   Selective Attention — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
53   Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
53   Trunk Strength — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without 'giving out' or fatiguing.
50   Category Flexibility — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
50   Depth Perception — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
50   Flexibility of Closure — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
50   Perceptual Speed — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
50   Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
50   Visual Color Discrimination — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
47   Spatial Orientation — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
47   Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
47   Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
44   Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
44   Finger Dexterity — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
44   Rate Control — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
44   Reaction Time — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
44   Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
44   Time Sharing — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
44   Visualization — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
41   Auditory Attention — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
41   Hearing Sensitivity — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
38   Glare Sensitivity — The ability to see objects in the presence of glare or bright lighting.
38   Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
38   Memorization — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
38   Originality — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
38   Response Orientation — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
35   Sound Localization — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
35   Speed of Closure — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
31   Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
31   Gross Body Equilibrium — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
31   Number Facility — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
31   Peripheral Vision — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
31   Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
28   Fluency of Ideas — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
28   Speed of Limb Movement — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
28   Wrist-Finger Speed — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
22   Mathematical Reasoning — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
16   Night Vision — The ability to see under low light conditions.
 Dynamic Flexibility — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
 Explosive Strength — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.

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Work Activities   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Work Activity
87   Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
  • monitor production machinery/equipment operation to detect problems
82   Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
78   Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
  • maintain consistent production quality
76   Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
73   Handling and Moving Objects — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
  • collect samples for testing
  • load or unload material or workpiece into machinery
73   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
73   Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
73   Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
72   Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
  • maintain production or work records
69   Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
67   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
64   Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or water craft.
59   Controlling Machines and Processes — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
  • control operation of compressors
  • operate chemical processing equipment
  • operate power driven pumps
  • operate power generation equipment
  • operate water treatment equipment
  • use hand or power tools
  • use laboratory equipment
  • use pipe fitting equipment
  • use precision measuring tools or equipment
57   Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
56   Analyzing Data or Information — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
  • test materials or solutions
55   Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
55   Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
54   Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
52   Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
52   Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
51   Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
50   Communicating with Persons Outside Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
50   Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
  • adjust production equipment/machinery setup
  • clean equipment or machinery
  • inspect machinery or equipment to determine adjustments or repairs needed
  • install water or sewer treatment plant equipment
  • maintain or repair industrial or related equipment/machinery
48   Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
47   Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
46   Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
44   Scheduling Work and Activities — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
42   Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
40   Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
37   Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
37   Judging the Qualities of Things, Services, or People — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
35   Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
34   Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
31   Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
28   Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  • direct and coordinate activities of workers or staff
27   Provide Consultation and Advice to Others — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
24   Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
24   Performing Administrative Activities — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
23   Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
20   Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
10   Staffing Organizational Units — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.

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Work Context   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Context
Work Context
97   Outdoors, Exposed to Weather — How often does this job require working outdoors, exposed to all weather conditions?
94   Freedom to Make Decisions — How much decision making freedom, without supervision, does the job offer?
93   In an Enclosed Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in a closed vehicle or equipment (e.g., car)?
92   Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets — How much does this job require wearing common protective or safety equipment such as safety shoes, glasses, gloves, hard hats or life jackets?
88   Structured versus Unstructured Work — To what extent is this job structured for the worker, rather than allowing the worker to determine tasks, priorities, and goals?
84   Face-to-Face Discussions — How often do you have to have face-to-face discussions with individuals or teams in this job?
84   Frequency of Decision Making — How frequently is the worker required to make decisions that affect other people, the financial resources, and/or the image and reputation of the organization?
84   Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results — How do the decisions an employee makes impact the results of co-workers, clients or the company?
83   Exposed to Contaminants — How often does this job require working exposed to contaminants (such as pollutants, gases, dust or odors)?
83   Indoors, Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions?
80   Duration of Typical Work Week — Number of hours typically worked in one week.
80   Importance of Being Exact or Accurate — How important is being very exact or highly accurate in performing this job?
78   Sounds, Noise Levels Are Distracting or Uncomfortable — How often does this job require working exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting or uncomfortable?
77   Telephone — How often do you have telephone conversations in this job?
74   Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled — How often does this job require working indoors in non-controlled environmental conditions (e.g., warehouse without heat)?
73   Consequence of Error — How serious would the result usually be if the worker made a mistake that was not readily correctable?
69   Responsibility for Outcomes and Results — How responsible is the worker for work outcomes and results of other workers?
67   Very Hot or Cold Temperatures — How often does this job require working in very hot (above 90 F degrees) or very cold (below 32 F degrees) temperatures?
65   Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings — How often does this job require exposure to minor burns, cuts, bites, or stings?
65   Responsible for Others' Health and Safety — How much responsibility is there for the health and safety of others in this job?
64   Spend Time Standing — How much does this job require standing?
63   Exposed to Hazardous Conditions — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous conditions?
63   Exposed to Hazardous Equipment — How often does this job require exposure to hazardous equipment?
62   Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls — How much does this job require using your hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools or controls?
61   Exposed to Disease or Infections — How often does this job require exposure to disease/infections?
61   Importance of Repeating Same Tasks — How important is repeating the same physical activities (e.g., key entry) or mental activities (e.g., checking entries in a ledger) over and over, without stopping, to performing this job?
61   Time Pressure — How often does this job require the worker to meet strict deadlines?
61   Work With Work Group or Team — How important is it to work with others in a group or team in this job?
59   Contact With Others — How much does this job require the worker to be in contact with others (face-to-face, by telephone, or otherwise) in order to perform it?
59   Exposed to High Places — How often does this job require exposure to high places?
58   Spend Time Walking and Running — How much does this job require walking and running?
57   Coordinate or Lead Others — How important is it to coordinate or lead others in accomplishing work activities in this job?
56   Degree of Automation — How automated is the job?
52   Letters and Memos — How often does the job require written letters and memos?
52   Outdoors, Under Cover — How often does this job require working outdoors, under cover (e.g., structure with roof but no walls)?
50   Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions — How often does this job require working in cramped work spaces that requires getting into awkward positions?
46   Deal With External Customers — How important is it to work with external customers or the public in this job?
43   Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting — How often does this job require working in extremely bright or inadequate lighting conditions?
43   Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment — How important is it to this job that the pace is determined by the speed of equipment or machinery? (This does not refer to keeping busy at all times on this job.)
40   Deal With Unpleasant or Angry People — How frequently does the worker have to deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous individuals as part of the job requirements?
40   Electronic Mail — How often do you use electronic mail in this job?
40   Spend Time Sitting — How much does this job require sitting?
38   Physical Proximity — To what extent does this job require the worker to perform job tasks in close physical proximity to other people?
37   Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions — How much does this job require making repetitive motions?
36   Frequency of Conflict Situations — How often are there conflict situations the employee has to face in this job?
36   Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles — How much does this job require climbing ladders, scaffolds, or poles?
35   Level of Competition — To what extent does this job require the worker to compete or to be aware of competitive pressures?
31   In an Open Vehicle or Equipment — How often does this job require working in an open vehicle or equipment (e.g., tractor)?
31   Spend Time Bending or Twisting the Body — How much does this job require bending or twisting your body?
29   Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection — How much does this job require wearing specialized protective or safety equipment such as breathing apparatus, safety harness, full protection suits, or radiation protection?
28   Work Schedules — How regular are the work schedules for this job?
26   Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance — How much does this job require keeping or regaining your balance?
24   Exposed to Whole Body Vibration — How often does this job require exposure to whole body vibration (e.g., operate a jackhammer)?
22   Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling — How much does this job require kneeling, crouching, stooping or crawling?
15   Public Speaking — How often do you have to perform public speaking in this job?
  Deal With Physically Aggressive People — How frequently does this job require the worker to deal with physical aggression of violent individuals?
No data available Exposed to Radiation — How often does this job require exposure to radiation?

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Job Zone   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

Component Description
Title Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed
 
Overall Experience Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
 
Job Training Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.
 
Job Zone Examples These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include funeral directors, electricians, forest and conservation technicians, legal secretaries, interviewers, and insurance sales agents.
 
SVP Range (6.0 to < 7.0)
 
Education Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree.

There are 4 recognized apprenticeable specialties associated with this occupation:
Clarifying-Plant Operator; Wastewater-Treatment-Plant Operator; Waste-Treatment Operator; Water-Treatment-Plant Operator

To learn about specific apprenticeship opportunities, please consult the U.S. Department of Labor State Apprenticeship Information external site website.

For general information about apprenticeships, training, and partnerships with business, visit the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeship external site website.

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Interests   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Occupational Interest
Interest
94   Realistic — Realistic occupations frequently involve work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions. They often deal with plants, animals, and real-world materials like wood, tools, and machinery. Many of the occupations require working outside, and do not involve a lot of paperwork or working closely with others.
44   Conventional — Conventional occupations frequently involve following set procedures and routines. These occupations can include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually there is a clear line of authority to follow.
28   Investigative — Investigative occupations frequently involve working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. These occupations can involve searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally.
22   Enterprising — Enterprising occupations frequently involve starting up and carrying out projects. These occupations can involve leading people and making many decisions. Sometimes they require risk taking and often deal with business.
17   Artistic — Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.
11   Social — Social occupations frequently involve working with, communicating with, and teaching people. These occupations often involve helping or providing service to others.

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Work Styles   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Importance
Work Style
75   Dependability — Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
73   Attention to Detail — Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
68   Cooperation — Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
68   Self Control — Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
67   Analytical Thinking — Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
64   Integrity — Job requires being honest and ethical.
63   Initiative — Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
59   Leadership — Job requires a willingness to lead, take charge, and offer opinions and direction.
58   Adaptability/Flexibility — Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
56   Independence — Job requires developing one's own ways of doing things, guiding oneself with little or no supervision, and depending on oneself to get things done.
56   Persistence — Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.
55   Stress Tolerance — Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.
53   Achievement/Effort — Job requires establishing and maintaining personally challenging achievement goals and exerting effort toward mastering tasks.
48   Concern for Others — Job requires being sensitive to others' needs and feelings and being understanding and helpful on the job.
46   Innovation — Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
39   Social Orientation — Job requires preferring to work with others rather than alone, and being personally connected with others on the job.

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Work Values   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Extent
Work Value
59   Support — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.
49   Working Conditions — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.
47   Relationships — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.
44   Achievement — Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.
42   Independence — Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employs to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.
42   Recognition — Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

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Work Needs   Save Table (XLS/CSV)


Extent
Work Need
72   Moral Values — Workers on this job are never pressured to do things that go against their sense of right and wrong.
69   Security — Workers on this job have steady employment.
66   Company Policies and Practices — Workers on this job are treated fairly by the company.
59   Supervision, Human Relations — Workers on this job have supervisors who back up their workers with management.
56   Activity — Workers on this job are busy all the time.
56   Co-workers — Workers on this job have co-workers who are easy to get along with.
53   Supervision, Technical — Workers on this job have supervisors who train their workers well.
50   Autonomy — Workers on this job plan their work with little supervision.
50   Independence — Workers on this job do their work alone.
50   Responsibility — Workers on this job make decisions on their own.
47   Advancement — Workers on this job have opportunities for advancement.
47   Authority — Workers on this job give directions and instructions to others.
47   Compensation — Workers on this job are paid well in comparison with other workers.
44   Ability Utilization — Workers on this job make use of their individual abilities.
44   Achievement — Workers on this job get a feeling of accomplishment.
41   Recognition — Workers on this job receive recognition for the work they do.
41   Working Conditions — Workers on this job have good working conditions.
34   Social Status — Workers on this job are looked up to by others in their company and their community.
31   Variety — Workers on this job have something different to do every day.
25   Creativity — Workers on this job try out their own ideas.
13   Social Service — Workers on this job have work where they do things for other people.

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Related Occupations   Save Table (XLS/CSV)

49-9043.00 Maintenance Workers, Machinery
51-4193.00 Plating and Coating Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic
51-6061.00 Textile Bleaching and Dyeing Machine Operators and Tenders
51-8091.00 Chemical Plant and System Operators
51-8092.00 Gas Plant Operators
51-8093.00 Petroleum Pump System Operators, Refinery Operators, and Gaugers
51-9011.00 Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders
51-9132.00 Photographic Processing Machine Operators
53-7072.00 Pump Operators, Except Wellhead Pumpers

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Education


Percentage of Respondents
Education Level Attained