Is Water Supply a Good Career Path? A Complete Guide

The water industry is a growing and rewarding field. There are many high-paying positions available to graduates with a degree in the water supply field. 

It is an important sector of the economy and there are many opportunities for people who want to be a part of this industry.

But if you are still confused about the options in the water supply industry, we have step by step guide on water supply careers, benefits, and some high-paying jobs in the industry. Let’s begin.

What is the Water Supply?

Water supply is the process of supplying water to homes and commercial establishments. The goal of water supply is to provide an adequate water supply that meets the needs of the people. 

Latin America studied investing in a plan to provide a clean water supply and hygienic sanitation system for 1 billion US dollars. This initiative would create 100,000 jobs.

That shows that water supply is a growing industry and you can make a lot of money with a degree in the water supply. 

So, if you are ready to be a pioneer in the water supply industry, you should enroll in an accredited water supply school or any institution by researching their accreditation and support.

Qualifications Required for Water Supply Jobs

Water supply jobs are some of the most technical and challenging positions in the workforce. Candidates must have strong math skills, experience with water systems, and be able to navigate complex bureaucratic hurdles. There are many different types of water supply jobs, but all require a combination of education and experience.

Here are some levels of education required for specific water supply careers. I have divided it into some sections so that you can get a clear idea.

High School Graduates

In the industry, there are openings for high school graduates. There are different advancement opportunities for high school graduates in the water supply industry. It is an opportunity for you to get training and gain more experience in this field.

Undergraduate level

This is the entry-level position for water supply. You will find a lot of openings for graduates with a degree in the water supply. As you can see from the figure, there are many entry-level jobs in the industry.

Experienced and Completed Graduate

This is the level of qualification needed to work in the water supply. Companies need persons with a high degree of skill, knowledge, and experience to help run the water supply unit or department. 

The companies will train persons who have completed their diplomas and are looking for experience before they pursue a higher qualification. But you will get paid well if you have completed your degree. At this level, a water supply career is a good career choice.

How to Become a Water Supply Worker?

The water supply industry requires many skills such as communication, leadership, and negotiation skills. These skills are essential for any job but can also help you become a strong water supply worker. Here are some of the skills that every water supply worker should have:

1. Mathematics Expertise
2. Good Communication Skills
3. Good knowledge of water supply
4. Writing and Editing Skills
5. Ability to solve problems
6. Knowledge of water treatment processes

You have seen it there is no need for a formal degree in the water supply career. However, you need to have the above-mentioned skills. It is better if you can get a college degree in the water supply field but not mandatory. 

Benefits of Working with a Water Company

That is the question everyone asks. Why should I choose a career in the water supply industry? To give our readers an in-depth analysis of the benefits of working with a water supply company, we have brought together some important facts about the water supply industry. This will help our readers to understand the importance of this field. 

1. Reduce Chemical Risk

Harmful chemicals are often used in the manufacture of water. Since the water supply industry is highly regulated, you will be exposed to these chemicals. But it is not something that you need to worry about. The water supply company is well-equipped with modern equipment and safety measures to ensure that no harmful chemicals are released.

2. Good Pay

The water supply industry is one of the best-paying industries in the world. Water supply workers are generally paid well and have good benefits. If you are looking for a good job, this is the industry for you. According to the research, you make $99,493 per year as a water supply engineer which shows that there is a huge demand for water supply engineers.

3. High Demand for Water Supply Workers

Water is one of the most important things in the world, and there is always a high demand for it. The water supply industry is a fast-growing industry, and this ensures that you will always have job opportunities. You will never have a problem finding a job with a water supply company.

4. Better Job Security

Many government regulations are in place to protect the public from chemical dangers. Therefore, if you work in the water supply industry, there is no need to worry about safety issues. 

There is no need to worry about accidents that might occur during work. Water supply firms are always on the lookout for opportunities to improve their technology and infrastructure. Therefore, your job is safe with the water supply company.

4. Better Job Security

Many government regulations are in place to protect the public from chemical dangers. Therefore, if you work in the water supply industry, there is no need to worry about safety issues. 

There is no need to worry about accidents that might occur during work. Water supply firms are always on the lookout for opportunities to improve their technology and infrastructure. Therefore, your job is safe with the water supply company.

5. Better Working Environment

The water supply companies are some of the best employers. They provide their workers with a safe and good working environment. They encourage employees to strive for the better to fulfill their customers’ needs and accept criticism without fear. The water supply companies also provide their employees with benefits such as healthcare and 401k.

Remember!

Every company needs to pay well and giving you all benefits is not the only factor that keeps you there. You desire to work and help people, and your ability to do so. 

If you have both qualities, then some of the best companies on the planet will be more than happy to hire you. Never underestimate yourself. You might be a great water supply engineer if you try.

9 Highly Paid jobs in Water Supply Industry

Well, we know, you are not here just as a guide. That’s why, we will discuss some high-paying jobs in the water supply industry, and now, a clear picture will be built in your mind to understand how much you can make in this field.

1. Water Distribution Supervisor

Average salary: $59,833/yr

In this position, you are responsible for the daily operations of the water distribution system. You supervise and coordinate the activities of all the workers involved in this field. This is a challenging job, and it is especially rewarding if you are looking for financial rewards. I think that you can get up to $100,000 a year in this position if you are working for a good company.

2. Water Treatment Operator/Technician

Average salary: $39,804/yr

You work in the water treatment plant and you find solutions to minimize the waste created by the water supply system. Your main responsibility is to keep the water safe and pure. Plus, you also have to maintain the equipment and ensure that it is in good working condition. 

As an operator or technician, you have a good chance of getting promoted to upper positions in the water supply industry. The highest paying job for a water treatment operator is a Water Plant Operator.

3. Water Distribution Operator

Average salary: $43,959/yr

You are in charge of water distribution to homes and commercial establishments. You have to monitor the water system and make sure that it is in good condition and can perform its job properly. 

You have to respond to any problems and ensure that the water supply system is running smoothly. Plus, you also have to collect and analyze the samples from the water supply system. If you have the right skill set, you can be promoted to a Water Distribution Supervisor.

4. Water Plant Operator

Average salary: $71,456.77/yr

You are in charge of the water plant and control the flow of water from the main source to all the locations. You also have to ensure that all the equipment is in good working condition. 

If you have good leadership and communication skills, you can be promoted to a Water Treatment Specialist or Operations Manager in this field. I can say this is one of the highest-paying jobs in the water supply industry.

5. Water Resources Design Engineer 

Average salary: $91,127/yr

In this position, you are in charge of the planning of the water resources. You are also responsible for designing the water system and determining how to improve it. you may be working for a State agency or a private company that plans to build a new water system. With this position, you will be able to earn around $100,000 a year. 

6. Water Quality/Analyst Investigator 

Average salary: $61,418 to $74,269/yr

You are responsible for monitoring the water quality and ensuring that it is safe to drink and use. You are responsible for inspecting the water supply system and analyzing the samples to stop any potential health hazards caused by contaminated water. This position is one of the highest-paying jobs, but the competition is also very high.

7. Water Resource Recovery Operator

Average salary: $45,128/yr

If you are good at chemistry or biology, you can take up this position. As a water resource recovery operator, you are in charge of recycling the water and making it safe for drinking again. 

You have to make sure that there is no pollution in the water supply system. You have to analyze the samples from the water supply system and ensure that it is clean before sending them back to the main source or regulators. 

8. Water Conservation Specialist

Average salary: $39,230 – $100,350/yr

In this position, your main responsibility is to promote water conservation in public places like schools and homes. You have to educate people about the benefits of water conservation. 

If you have the right skills and know how to sell, you can become a Trainer or Consultant in this field and makeup up $100,000+ a year. 

It is your job to monitor the water use in homes and commercial establishments. You have to study the ways to reduce water use and find out ways to raise awareness about water conservation.

9. Watershed Coordinator

Average salary: $37,380 to $128,440/yr

You are the one responsible for the protection and management of the watershed area. You work for a government agency or a non-profit agency. As a Watershed Coordinator, you conduct studies on how to protect the watershed area and make sure that there is no pollution in it.

You are in charge of the land use and development planning in the watershed. You are responsible for developing an assessment known as Water Quality Improvement Plan or WQIP. 

This plan will help you determine what needs to be done for a particular watershed. 

You should have at least a bachelor’s degree in Natural resources or Forestry and experience working with watersheds or regulations. 

These are some of the highest-paying jobs in the water supply field that can guarantee you a comfortable lifestyle. 

But if you have an interest in this field, there are many other intermediate positions with good salaries like Water Distribution Technician, Senior Operator, Water Treatment Operator, and many more. 

If you have a successful career in any of these positions, you can be promoted to higher positions with more responsibility and better salaries. It’s all up to your talent.

Tips for Finding a Career in a Water Supply Company

You can work in a water supply company by considering your educational background, and work experience, and taking some courses. But you also need some useful tips to get hired. The tips are mentioned below:

1. Check out the job description of a job before applying. It will help you to see the career path that you can take, and decide on whether working in a water supply company is your cup of tea.
2. Be patient and persistent. Remember, it can take some time before you get a job in the water supply industry.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your professors and seniors. They will be more than happy to guide you at every step in your career.
4. Do some research and make connections within the industry to find out about how things work.
5. Join a networking group and make some connections in the industry.
6. Never give up. Your attitude will determine your future.
7. Work above your level of experience. If you want to be a boss someday, start working harder than your peers.
8. Take challenging classes in college or any institute which will help you to develop skills that are in demand in the water supply industry.

Future of the Water Supply Industry

Water and wastewater treatment technologies are constantly advancing and improving. Newer, cleaner technologies are being implemented all the time and replacing old ones. The potential for further progress is limitless. 

According to IBISWorld, annually, revenue for the Water Supply and Irrigation Systems industry is anticipated to grow by 1.8% to $91.3 billion over the five years from 2018 to 2022. Industry growth will be fueled by a rise in water sales, as well as increasing demand.

Hence, the water supply industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world. The water industry is growing at a rapid rate and will continue to grow in the future. The potential for destruction is also limitless. As the water supply field progresses, so do the challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions About Water Supply Career Path

Is water supply a good career path in the world?

Yes, water supply is a good career path. If you are considering a career in water supply, it means that you are interested in working to ensure that people have access to clean and safe water. 

This is a noble cause, as we cannot live without water. There are a variety of positions that you can take in the water supply industry, ranging from low to high-paying. 

If you have a great interest in the field and have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, you can find quite good-paying jobs. 

How much is the water industry worth?

The water industry is a growing and highly rewarding industry. Water demand is on the rise and has been since the early 20th century. This industry is making USD 283.01 billion since 2021. It is expected that even more money will be made in the future, leading to more high-paying positions.

Why work in the water industry?

There are a variety of benefits to working in the water supply industry. If you are interested in making a difference, working in the water supply is an excellent career choice. You get to apply your knowledge and skills to help the community. 

You will have the chance to solve problems and make a real difference in people’s lives. If you are earning good money, you can also give back by helping out those who are less fortunate than you.

What kind of jobs are there in the water supply?

Water supply jobs are many. It depends on the section or department in the industry that you work for. Water supply is a growing and ever-changing industry. There are many opportunities for you to pursue a different career in this field.

1. Water Supply Engineer
2. Water Treatment and Distribution Specialist
3. Water Quality Specialist
4. Water Supply Manager
5. Water Supply Technician
6. Water Distribution Mechanic
7. Water Treatment Plant Operator

And many more…..

Final Thoughts

As the population grows and people are increasingly aware of their need for clean drinking water, water supply is emerging as a possible career path. There are many opportunities for water professionals in the field of water supply, as there is a huge need for it, especially in developing countries.

With the right skills, there is no limit to what someone can do with a career in the water supply.

The water supply industry can be one of the top earning industries at different levels. In the future, you can expect higher earnings and new jobs in the water supply industry.

Now it’s opinion time. What do you think of the career path? Is it worth enrolling in the water supply program? Why? 

Do you know about any other career paths in the water industry that are paying well and have a high growth potential? Please write down your experience and expertise in working within this industry so we can compile it here. We will love to hear from you.