Waterway Maintenance Technician in Ohio Career Overview
As a Waterway Maintenance Technician, you play a vital role in ensuring the proper functioning and sustainability of waterways in Ohio. Your work is essential for maintaining the state’s water infrastructure and protecting natural habitats. Here’s what your career entails:
Responsibilities: You are tasked with inspecting, maintaining, and repairing various waterway systems, including canals, rivers, and lakes. This includes managing sediment, vegetation, and other potential obstructions to ensure safe and efficient water flow.
Impact on Environment: Your efforts directly contribute to the health of aquatic ecosystems. By maintaining clear and functional waterways, you support biodiversity and promote cleaner water, which benefits both wildlife and local communities.
Regulatory Compliance: You ensure that all maintenance work adheres to state and federal regulations designed to protect water quality and aquatic life. This involves collaborating with environmental agencies and stakeholders to maintain compliance.
Community Engagement: You often coordinate with local governments and organizations to educate the community about the importance of waterway preservation. Public outreach and involvement are key to raising awareness and fostering stewardship of water resources.
Technical Skills: Your job involves using specialized tools and methods for waterway assessment and maintenance. This includes operating machinery, conducting surveys, and applying environmentally friendly practices that promote sustainability.
Career Outlook: The demand for skilled Waterway Maintenance Technicians is expected to grow as communities place increasing importance on environmental conservation and infrastructure development.
By engaging in this career, you become an essential part of Ohio’s commitment to maintaining its waterways for future generations while ensuring the health of its ecosystems.
Waterway Maintenance Technician Salary in Ohio
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Waterway Maintenance Technician in Ohio
To become a Waterway Maintenance Technician in Ohio, you need to meet specific educational qualifications and training requirements. Here are the relevant degree programs that can prepare you for this career:
Hydrology and Water Resources Science
- This program focuses on the study of water in the environment, including the movement, distribution, and quality of water. You will learn about water conservation, management practices, and the impacts of human activities on water systems.
Water Quality and Wastewater Treatment Management and Recycling Technology
- This program covers the principles and practices involved in the treatment and management of water and wastewater. You will gain knowledge in effective methods for ensuring water quality and the technologies used in recycling and treating wastewater.
Water Resources Engineering
- This engineering program emphasizes the design and management of systems related to water resources, including stormwater management and flood control. You will develop skills in hydraulic engineering, hydrology, and the sustainable management of waterways.
In addition to obtaining a degree from one of these programs, practical training through internships or hands-on experiences is often beneficial. Staying informed on state regulations and best practices in waterway maintenance will also enhance your qualifications.
Best Schools to become a Waterway Maintenance Technician in Ohio 2024
Santiago Canyon College
Des Moines Area Community College
Mt San Jacinto Community College District
Citrus College
College of the Canyons
Clackamas Community College
- Operate dredge to remove sand, gravel, or other materials in order to excavate and maintain navigable channels in waterways.
Waterway Maintenance Technician Required Skills and Competencies in Ohio
Technical Knowledge: Understand the principles of waterway maintenance, including hydrology, environmental science, and civil engineering basics. Familiarity with relevant laws and regulations governing waterway management is essential.
Mechanical Skills: Proficiency in operating, maintaining, and repairing machinery and equipment used in waterway maintenance, such as excavators, pumps, and boats.
Problem-Solving Abilities: Develop effective solutions for a variety of challenges that may arise in the field, including addressing erosion, sedimentation, and water quality issues.
Attention to Detail: Maintain precise standards in inspections and maintenance tasks to ensure compliance with safety regulations and environmental standards.
Physical Stamina: Demonstrate the ability to engage in physically demanding tasks, often in various weather conditions, such as lifting heavy materials, walking considerable distances, and working in water.
Inspection Skills: Conduct thorough assessments of waterways and associated structures, identifying potential problems with dams, levees, and other infrastructure.
Communication Skills: Exhibit strong interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with team members, stakeholders, and the public. Provide clear explanations of maintenance projects and their impacts.
Safety Awareness: Prioritize workplace safety by understanding and adhering to safety protocols, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and emergency response procedures.
Time Management: Manage multiple tasks and projects effectively, ensuring completion within deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards.
Environmental Awareness: Recognize the ecological impact of maintenance practices and implement strategies that promote the health of the surrounding environment and waterways.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Work well with diverse groups, including government agencies, non-profits, and community organizations, to achieve common objectives in waterway maintenance and enhancement.
Job Duties for Waterway Maintenance Technicians
Move levers to position dredges for excavation, to engage hydraulic pumps, to raise and lower suction booms, and to control rotation of cutterheads.
Start and stop engines to operate equipment.
Start power winches that draw in or let out cables to change positions of dredges, or pull in and let out cables manually.
Data base user interface and query software
- Teledyne Odom Hydrographic ODOM eChart
Industrial control software
- HYPACK DREDGEPACK
- Programmable logic controller PLC software
Mobile location based services software
- Global positioning system GPS software
Basic Skills
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Waterway Maintenance Technician in Ohio
The job market for Waterway Maintenance Technicians in Ohio offers a variety of possibilities driven by both environmental needs and infrastructure development. As awareness of waterway protection and sustainable management continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled technicians in this field.
Demand for Waterway Maintenance Technicians:
- Increased investment in infrastructure and environmental conservation efforts is leading to a steady demand for professionals who can manage and maintain waterways.
- Local governments, environmental organizations, and private sector companies are actively seeking technicians to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to preserve natural water resources.
Growth Potential:
- The trend towards more comprehensive waterway management programs indicates a promising growth potential for this career. As state and federal funding for waterway improvements increases, job opportunities are expected to rise.
- The push for sustainable practices and eco-friendly initiatives also creates roles that focus on innovative maintenance techniques and technologies, expanding career prospects within the sector.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Urban areas such as Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati are key locations where demand for Waterway Maintenance Technicians is pronounced due to their large waterways and need for maintenance and rehabilitation.
- Regions with significant agricultural activity, like the Western and Central parts of Ohio, often require technicians to manage the impacts of farming on nearby rivers and lakes.
- Ohio's rich natural resources and tourism appeal also contribute to the need for professionals tasked with maintaining riverways, lakes, and wetlands, particularly in popular recreational areas such as the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and near Lake Erie.
Staying informed about local regulations, environmental projects, and funding opportunities in these hotspots can aid your career trajectory in the field of waterway maintenance. This expanding market provides an excellent landscape for aspiring technicians to seek employment and build a rewarding career.
Top Related Careers to Waterway Maintenance Technician 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Waterway Maintenance Technician in Ohio
Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)
- Website: odnr.gov
- This state agency manages Ohio's natural resources and provides valuable information on waterway management, conservation practices, and regulations.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
- Website: usace.army.mil
- This federal agency oversees navigation and flood risk management on waterways throughout the United States, including those in Ohio. They offer resources related to waterway maintenance and management.
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) – Ohio Section
- Website: asceohio.org
- Join this professional organization for networking opportunities and access to educational resources about civil engineering practices relevant to waterway maintenance.
Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA)
- Website: epa.ohio.gov
- This agency implements regulations aimed at protecting Ohio's water resources. They provide guidelines, permits, and data relevant to waterway management.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – National Marine Fisheries Service
- Website: noaa.gov
- NOAA provides reliable data and research on waterway ecosystems, fisheries, and conservation efforts that are crucial for effective waterway maintenance.
Ohio State University Extension – Water Quality Program
- Website: extension.osu.edu
- The OSU Extension offers programs and resources focused on water quality and management, providing research-based information on best practices in maintenance and conservation.
Environmental Protection Agency – Water Resource Centers
- Website: epa.gov
- The EPA's water resource sections provide guidelines, strategies, and information on best practices for waterway maintenance and management on a national level.
National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA)
- Website: nasbla.org
- This organization focuses on boating safety and education, providing resources that contribute to the safe management of waterways.
The Great Lakes Commission
- Website: glc.org
- This regional agency works to protect and manage the Great Lakes ecosystem, offering resources and collaboration opportunities for waterway technicians focused on these significant waterways.
Water Environment Federation (WEF)
- Website: wef.org
- A global network of water quality professionals that offers resources, training, and publications related to water quality and management practices, relevant for anyone involved in waterway maintenance.
By utilizing these resources, you can enhance your knowledge and skills as a Waterway Maintenance Technician while also staying updated on industry standards and regulations in Ohio.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Waterway Maintenance Technician in Ohio
What does a Waterway Maintenance Technician do?
A Waterway Maintenance Technician is responsible for the upkeep and repair of navigable waterways. This includes tasks such as inspecting waterways, clearing debris, maintaining locks and dams, and ensuring that water flow is unobstructed.What qualifications do I need to become a Waterway Maintenance Technician in Ohio?
While specific qualifications may vary by employer, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Additional experience in marine, environmental, or construction fields can be beneficial. Certifications in related areas, such as safety procedures or equipment operation, are also advantageous.Are there any specific skills required for this role?
Yes, essential skills include mechanical aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and physical fitness. Familiarity with heavy machinery and maintenance equipment, as well as knowledge of environmental regulations, is also important.What type of work environment can I expect?
Most of your work will take place outdoors on or near bodies of water. This can include conditions that vary with the weather and may involve working in remote or isolated areas.Is there any safety training involved?
Yes, safety training is a critical component of this job. You'll likely receive training on how to operate machinery safely, handle hazardous materials, and respond to emergencies in aquatic environments.Do Waterway Maintenance Technicians work alone or as part of a team?
You can expect to work both independently and as part of a team. Many tasks require coordination with other technicians, engineers, and local authorities.What are the typical work hours for this position?
Work hours can vary but may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, especially during peak seasons when maintenance activities are more frequent.What career advancement opportunities are available?
There are numerous pathways for advancement, including moving into supervisory or managerial roles. Specialized certifications and additional training can also enable you to take on more complex tasks or transition into related fields.What is the job outlook for Waterway Maintenance Technicians in Ohio?
The job outlook is generally stable, as the maintenance of waterways remains a priority for environmental and transportation agencies. Demand may fluctuate based on funding, local initiatives, and climate-related changes.How much can I expect to earn in this position?
Salaries can vary widely depending on experience, location, and the specific employer. On average, Waterway Maintenance Technicians in Ohio can expect to earn a competitive wage, with opportunities for overtime and benefits.