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A Surface Water Operator is involved with the management of water supplies and distribution. You might monitor supply levels and arrange for water to be transported through distribution networks as required. You’ll check surface water levels in your catchment and help make decisions about collection and release strategies.
Surface Water Operators should have excellent attention to detail and be able to use their analytical skills as required. It’s important that you can communicate well and work as part of a larger team. Surface Water Operators should be able to follow directions and perform their duties according to correct procedures.
There are 2 courses available for people who want to become a Surface Water Operator.
Possible job outcomes:
Need the skills to develop operational plans for inland water management systems? Try the NWP40120 Certificate IV in Water Industry Operations (Hydrometric Monitoring). This nationally recognised qualification will advance your data collection and processing skills while teaching you how to develop water management plans for rivers, lakes, stormwater, and sewage. The course covers: sampling and testing water, monitoring groundwater system usage, laboratory testing, measuring discharge, processing and interpreting data. Enquire now for entry requirements, hydrometric monitoring skills, and upcoming enrolment dates..
Average duration: 24 months.
The certificate II in Water Industry Operations (NWP20119) will give you the skills needed to work at water treatment and distribution plants (irrigation, wastewater, drinking water). This is a nationally recognised qualification that takes 6 months to complete. You will learn how to take water samples and present the data, respond to blue-green algae outbreaks, operate and control a range of water treatments including fluoride, disinfection chemicals, and UV processes. Enquire now for the course prospectus and the list of upcoming training dates..
Average duration: 6 months.
In Australia, a full time Surface Water Operator generally earns $1,050 per week ($54,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
This sector has seen a slight increase in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 4,200 people employed in this industry in Australia and many of them specialise as a Surface Water Operator. Surface Water Operators may be employed across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
If you’re interested in a career as a Surface Water Operator, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in Water Industry Operations. This course looks at topics including taking water samples, responding to blue-green algae outbreaks and performing a range of water treatments. You could also consider a Certificate II in Water Industry Operations (Networks) or a Certificate II in Water Industry Operations (Treatment).
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within water management. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Water Management
Construction Worker (Water Infrastructure)
$960 weekly pay
Surface Water Operator
$1,050 weekly pay
Wastewater Plant Operator Assistant
Water Plant Operator Assistant
Water Treatment Technician
Catchment Officer
$1,250 weekly pay
Hydrographer
$1,400 weekly pay
Irrigation Field Officer
Trade Waste Officer
$1,340 weekly pay
Wastewater Plant Operator
Water Networks Operator
Water Plant Operator
Dam Operations Manager
$1,540 weekly pay
Irrigation Water Supervisor
Water Networks Supervisor
Water Treatment Supervisor
Learn more about Surface Water Operator courses in your area.