The 3 Best-Paying Jobs in Electric Utilities Central: If you love to work with electricity, you’ll be happy to know that there are many different careers available in the electric utilities central industry, and they all offer great salaries and benefits.
The following list ranks 3 of the highest-paying jobs in this sector based on salary data compiled by the U.S.
1. Chemical Equipment Operators
It’s one of several jobs that are expected to grow as much as 14% through 2024, according to BLS data.
The role requires a high school diploma and at least six months of on-the-job training.
Responsibilities include monitoring and controlling equipment used in manufacturing or processing chemicals, gases, and other materials; maintaining records; keeping production areas clean; ensuring compliance with environmental regulations; and conducting inspections to ensure safety rules are followed.
According to Payscale, chemical equipment operators earn an average salary of $65,000 per year.
2. Gas Compressor and Gas Pumping Station Operators
$64,000. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment for gas compressor and pumping station operators will increase 8% by 2022.
These workers operate or control gas compressors at natural gas processing plants or natural gas storage facilities.
They also may start or stop compressors to regulate pressure in pipelines and move gases from one location to another. Some workers test equipment to make sure it is operating correctly, using instruments such as pressure gauges.
Gas compressor and pumping station operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training.
Most states require certification from a nationally recognized testing organization such as the Natural Gas Compressor Operator Certification Board (NGCOB).
Workers must be able to work alone with minimal supervision while maintaining strict safety standards.
They may have to stand for long periods of time and lift heavy equipment weighing up to 100 pounds (45 kilograms).
3. Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operators
$56,990 per year ($26.73 per hour) Water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators control valves, switches, and other mechanisms to distribute water or remove waste from sewage systems.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that these workers typically need an associate’s degree for entry-level positions, but many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree.
The BLS also notes that wages for these workers have increased over time in fact, they grew by 11 percent between 2010 and 2015 alone.
However, as is true with most careers in utilities central, competition is stiff. In 2014 there were only 3 job openings for every 10 applicants who wanted to work as a water and wastewater treatment plant operator.
To land one of these jobs you will likely need at least some experience working on a utility crew either through an internship or volunteer work and strong customer service skills are always important when dealing with members of your community.
Conclusion
Most of all, remember that your career is a marathon, not a sprint. The best thing you can do for yourself is to keep learning and developing your skill set.
It’s easy to get discouraged when we’re stuck in a rut or feel like we’re underpaid; but if you can keep pushing forward and remain open to opportunities, there’s no limit to what you can achieve. Good luck!
