Efficient water and wastewater treatment plant operations rely heavily on experienced and knowledgeable staff. Operators’ expertise drives day-to-day processes, preventative maintenance, and reactions to unforeseen problems. This critical knowledge comes through consistent training and on-site experience. Losing an experienced operator can disrupt operations, as they often handle essential tasks such as data collection, sample analysis, chemical inventory, preventative maintenance, and system adjustments. These operators are vital during non-routine events like process upsets, equipment failures, and adverse weather conditions.
According to 2024 USEPA data, the water and wastewater industry faces a 20% average turnover rate, with high-performing employees leaving at a rate of 47%. This, combined with a 6% decline in new industry entrants over the last two decades, intensifies competition for qualified operators. For wastewater treatment plant owners who have invested millions in high-tech systems, retaining skilled staff is essential. The departure of key staff can lead to inefficiencies and unplanned costs, including:
- Shift coverage by senior personnel or external contractors
- Per diem and travel expenses for temporary replacements
- Increased overtime for remaining staff
- Reduced efficiency due to diverted management focus
When an operator vacancy arises, plant managers or senior staff often step in, detracting from higher-level responsibilities like project management and strategic oversight. This not only drives up labor costs but can also lead to burnout and missed opportunities for process improvements. The cumulative impact of turnover can strain budgets and impede long-term performance. Furthermore, training new employees who lack prior wastewater experience can take twice as long, highlighting the need and importance of retention strategies.
Strategies to Retain Staff and Minimize Turnover
Retaining top-performing employees is one of the challenges companies face in all industries, particularly in the water and wastewater industry. Turnover disrupts operations, increases costs, and can negatively impact team morale. High turnover may also damage a utility’s reputation, as outsiders may perceive it as an undesirable workplace. While some turnover is inevitable (e.g., retirement, relocation), competition for talent is increasing. Employees are prioritizing work-life balance, competitive pay, and positive work environments more than ever.
To sustain efficient operations and mitigate risks associated with staff turnover, U.S. Water implements these proactive strategies that have shown to be effective in sustaining our operations:
- Foster Open Communication
Regularly engage with operators to address concerns early. Transparent and responsive leadership can improve job satisfaction and enhance retention. - Establish Clear Performance Goals
Conduct regular performance reviews with defined goals and development pathways. This demonstrates investment in employee growth and aligns personal objectives with plant performance. - Address Gaps with Training and Support
Identify performance deficiencies and correct them through targeted training or mentorship. Supplement staff during training to avoid overburdening existing employees. - Develop Comprehensive Training Resources
Maintain a library of training materials, including videos, presentations, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Accessible resources empower staff to build skills independently. - Leverage Experienced Staff for Training
Assign senior operators as mentors. Their expertise accelerates onboarding and fosters a collaborative environment. - Implement Structured Onboarding Plans
Create detailed onboarding programs with competency milestones. Address underperformance early to prevent long-term inefficiencies. - Automate Routine Processes
Invest in automation to handle repetitive tasks, reducing manual errors and freeing staff for higher-value responsibilities. Innovative technology, such as U.S. Water’s Process Control & Monitoring (PC&M) system, can enhance efficiency and ensure consistent performance across operations.
By implementing these strategies, U.S. Water helps clients maintain stable, reliable operations, reducing the hidden costs of turnover and protecting long-term investments. Contact U.S. Water today to learn more about how we can support your facility’s success.
