Water Plant Operator Assistant Courses
A Water Plant Operator Assistant helps treat and test water, maintains equipment, and performs various tasks, requiring teamwork and adherence to procedures.
AI Exposure
Low

Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Water Plant Operator Assistant
Get qualified to work as a Water Plant Operator Assistant with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
NWP30222
Get a job at a water treatment plant with the NWP30222 Certificate III in Water Industry Operations (Water Treatment). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to operate and maintain drinking water treatment systems. The course covers: work health and safety, environmental compliance, sampling and testing drinking water, carrying out laboratory testing, implementing water industry legislation and standards, responding to blue-green algae outbreaks. You’ll also gain experience with a wi...
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NWP30222
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
Seeking an operational role in the Australian water industry? Try the the NWP30222 Certificate III in Water Industry Operations. This nationally recognised qualification is for water industry operators who need hands-on technical skills and operational competencies. The course covers: WHS and risk control processes, environmental compliance, chemical safety, teamwork and communication, using SCADA systems, applying the principles of chemistry to water systems and processes, grounds and vegetation maintena...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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NWP20122
The NWP20122 certificate II in Water Industry Operations 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...
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NWP30222
The NWP30222 Certificate III in Water Industry Operations (Catchment and Dams) is a nationally recognised qualification that will teach you how to operate and maintain water catchment and dam operations. The course begins with the critical safety and environmental Regulations that impact the water industry. You’ll then learn how to identify and respond to blue-green algae outbreaks, monitor and coordinate dam operations and maintenance, inspect and report on concrete and embankment safety, route floods th...
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Common questions

How much does a Water Plant Operator Assistant earn?
In Australia, a full time Water Plant Operator Assistant generally earns $1,100 per week ($57,200 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.

What are the job opportunities for a Water Plant Operator Assistant?
The number of people working in this industry has increased slightly over the last five years. There are currently 4,200 people employed in this sector and many of them specialise as a Water Plant Operator Assistant. Water Plant Operator Assistants may be employed across all regions of Australia.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become a Water Plant Operator Assistant?
If you’re interested in a career as a Water Plant Operator Assistant, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in Water Industry Operations. You’ll learn to take water samples, respond to blue-green algae outbreaks and perform 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).
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More information
A Water Plant Operator Assistant is part of the team at a water treatment or processing facility. You might be involved with treating water for further use, testing water to check it meets regulations or monitoring water supply levels. Water Plant Operator Assistants ensure equipment, tanks and pumps are properly cleaned and maintained and organise repairs when needed. You might assist with the filtration or chemical treatment of water and wastewater supplies.
Water Plant Operator Assistants might perform a range of duties during their day. You’ll need to be able to follow instructions and complete your tasks according to correct procedures. Water Plant Operator Assistants should be capable of completing physical tasks when required. You’ll need to be flexible and able to work as part of a team.
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