How To Get A Job As A Sewer Inspector
Sewer Inspectors have an important job. They are responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining sewer systems. They may work for a specific company or a municipality. The work of Sewer Inspectors may not be glamorous, but it is essential for the safety and welfare of the population.
Sewer Inspectors must be detail oriented, alert, conscientious, hard working, and health and safety conscious. They must be able to work in unpleasant surroundings, possibly filled with rats, cockroaches and other vermin, noxious gases, and disease. They must be physically fit and comfortable working in confined spaces.
Although much of their work is carried on above ground, on occasion, Sewer Inspectors may need to work below ground, wearing protective gear, including water repellant clothing, steel-toed boots, waders, helmets, helmet-lights, and goggles. They may need to carry and use oxygen. Areas of inspection may be underwater, and slippery. Care must be taken to avoid sudden increases of flowing water and debris.
The job of a Sewer Inspector can be a dirty one. It can also be a dangerous one. If gas builds up because of a cracked pipe, there is the risk of fire or explosion. It is the job of the Sewer Inspector to prevent these possibilities.
Although they usually work a regular forty hour week, if emergencies arise, Sewer Inspectors may be required to work overtime.
Sewer Inspectors check the city sewers on a regular basis. They are looking for pipes that may be cracked or in need of maintenance. They are also looking for pipes that are clogged with waste or debris, possibly discarded by residents. Tree roots can easily crack sewer pipes. All smaller pipes are regularly monitored, from above ground, by means of remote cameras within the sewer system. Cleaning or unclogging these pipes is done almost exclusively with high pressure water equipment. Large pipes are subjected to clogging from large items introduced into the system either by nature or thoughtless individuals. These must be located and removed. Sewer Inspectors also check out reports of problems that are reported by the public sector.
Side sewers, that are on private property, and take waste from the home to the main system, are the responsibility of the property owner. Sewer Inspectors that work for private companies inspect and repair these sewers. They may also do inspections for prospective home-buyers.
Education
If you are interested in getting a job as a sewer inspector, start by getting a high school diploma. Take courses in English, mathematics, computers, and science.
While still in high school, try to get some experience working for a utility company, or construction company. Learn how to read blue prints, and use a television camera, and video equipment. Choose the program that best serves your needs and future ambitions.
You may now get an apprenticeship with an established inspection facility, where you will learn the skills needed, under an guidance and supervision of an experienced sewer inspector. Inquire about apprenticeships from all the facilities in your area, and choose the program that best serves your needs and future ambitions.
Once you have completed your apprenticeship, you can look for a permanent job either with a private company, or with the municipality. Municipal governments may require applicants to pass an exam.
