Wastewater Technical Officer Review

I am the technical officer for around 200 treatment works. I have to ensure that all sites remain compliant whilst analysing the data to look for issues or any emerging risks. I will also liaise closely with our head office to minimise risk, schedule jobs and maintain sludge movements across the region.

Yes I feel I have developed my communication skills and my ability to build data backed arguments. Using operations management I am better equipped to look at waste within a process and optimise for efficiency. I understand fiances better and how these are used to drive business decisions and maintain solvency.

I find the programme useful and I am able to relate many of the different components to my organisation. I find mixing with other industries useful as I can see how they deal with issues and improve their ways of working. Having expert teachers is also helpful for guidance and development

The programme is well run however at times there is a lot of repetitive sessions. These can be frustrating and feel like a waste of time. The days can be quite long too and focusing on one subject for 7 hours is often too much to fully take in and.

My employer gives me the time I need both on and off the job. Management are often very helpful in terms of permitting the time to focus on essays and projects. I wouldnt say that there is a great deal of interest in the programme. I think the support in terms of development and opportunity is poor.

MMU are always on hand to provide support should you ask for it. The regular reviews keep everything on track and prevent key issues from slipping. Staff are always available should students need them and there are various different support functions across the university as a whole and in class.

I think elements of it help, being able to identify issues as said earlier. However a lot of it is theoretically based which is useful in terms of awareness but the ability to practically apply these models in the workplace would be useful. I think more engagement between the university and managers would help.

Yes there lots of varying ranges of social activities both formal or informal. There are industry led bodies that allow for professional networking. ANd for different communities to socialise, break out areas and learning and information sessions. There is an onsite gym and various classes and groups that take part in local activities.

Yes

There are lots of opportunities for development with a variety of roles. Pay is fair and the work is interesting should you go to the right department. There are lots of facilities that make life and work a lot easier and there is room for progression and expert training a.

Learn about the company and what it does. Make sure you a prepared and interested in the work and where possible shadow someone. There are a variety of roles from office to technical engineering so it is worth understanding what skills are required and the knowledge that is expected from you