Program Overview
Growing populations increase the demand for water supply and wastewater treatment. New technology is increasing the demand for trained professionals. Enroll now for training in a technical career which protects the environment, and provides safe, clean water for drinking and recreation.
The Water Supply Technology and Wastewater Technology Programs at Green River Community College prepare students for entry-level employment as water supply or wastewater technicians. Professionals in these fields make daily decisions that affect public health and the environment. Graduates are primarily employed by cities, counties, federal agencies and industry that operate and maintain water treatment, water distribution, wastewater collection and/or wastewater treatment systems. They may also find employment in support roles such as equipment sales.
Water Supply Technicians are responsible for purification and distribution of drinking water that is taken from a natural source. There are two major careers in this field:
A Water Treatment Operator operates and maintains drinking water purification plants. Duties include maintenance of equipment including pumps, valves and mechanical devices; conducting chemical analyses of water to assess the effectiveness of the treatment process; and maintaining related treatment records.
Water Distribution Technician is responsible for seeing that treated drinking water is distributed to where it will be used by the public, by industry and for fire fighting. Drinking water reaches its destination through a broad network of pipes under cities and towns. Additional responsibilities include installation, maintenance and repair of this primarily underground equipment.
Wastewater Technologists
are responsible for the operation and maintenance
of wastewater collection systems and/or
wastewater treatment plants - facilities
where wastes are removed to make water suitable
for return to the environment. There are
two major careers in this field:
A Wastewater Collection System Technician
operates and maintains wastewater pumping
stations and inspects, maintains and repairs
underground pipelines that carry wastewater
to treatment plants. They utilize specialized
equipment including high-pressure pipeline
cleaning machinery and closed-circuit television
pipeline inspection devices.
Wastewater Treatment Operators monitor,
operate and maintain treatment plant equipment,
perform laboratory analyses of wastewater,
and utilize a variety of information to
control the wastewater treatment process.
Maintenance of equipment including pumps,
valves, and mechanical drivers is also included
in operator responsibilities. Generating
written reports and maintaining records
is also important.
The first step for a new student is to apply for admission. Students can apply:
- On-line at the Web Admissions Center
- In person, stop by Enrollment Services
- By mail, call (253) 833-9111, ext. 2500 to request an application
Once you have applied, you will be mailed an acceptance packet within 2-4 business days. The packet will include your student identification number and a helpful checklist to guide you through the process.
Students may begin the certificate programs during fall quarter and the degree programs during any quarter.
The employment outlook in the water/wastewater field is growing. The entry-level salary range in the Everett-Seattle-Tacoma metropolitan area is $26,000 to $49,000 annually. Check out Access Washington's Job Training Results for more detailed information.