How to Be Septic Tank Technician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 27, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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FAQ

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Septic tank technicians are responsible for the proper operation and maintenance of septic tanks and systems. Without properly trained and knowledgeable technicians, these systems could become clogged, damaged, or contaminated, leading to costly repairs and health risks. Additionally, if the tank is not regularly emptied and maintained, the tank can reach capacity and cause sewage to overflow onto the property and surrounding areas, leading to property damage and contamination of groundwater, which can have long-lasting effects on the environment. By ensuring septic tanks are regularly serviced, technicians can help to prevent these issues from occurring.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Most employers prefer to hire technicians who have at least a high school education.
Complete a formal training program. Most employers prefer to hire technicians who have completed a formal training program in septic tank maintenance and repair. Formal training programs are available at community colleges and technical schools, and can take anywhere from several months to 2 years to complete.
Obtain a license. Depending on the state you live in, you may need to obtain a license in order to work as a septic tank technician. The licensing requirements vary from state to state, so check with your local licensing board to see what is required.
Obtain on-the-job experience. Most employers prefer to hire technicians who have at least some prior experience in the field. Consider working as an apprentice for a local septic tank installation or repair service to gain experience.
Consider obtaining additional certifications. Certifications from organizations such as the National Association of Wastewater Technicians can help demonstrate your proficiency in the field and make you more attractive to employers.

Septic tank technicians are essential in ensuring a healthy, safe, and functioning septic system. Without proper maintenance, a septic tank can quickly become clogged, leading to more serious problems such as backflow, flooding, and even contamination of drinking water. To be an ideal and capable septic tank technician, there are several essential skills that must be developed.

First and foremost, a technician must be knowledgeable in the area of septic tank maintenance, including how to properly diagnose and repair any problems that may arise. they should be experienced in handling the chemicals and tools necessary to complete the job, as well as have the ability to troubleshoot any issues that may arise. Finally, a technician needs to be familiar with local laws and regulations related to septic tanks and systems, so that they can ensure their services meet all necessary codes.

With these skills combined, a technician can be sure to provide quality service for any septic system.

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Job Description

Diagnose and repair malfunctioning septic systems.
Inspect, test, and diagnose septic systems.
Install, replace, and upgrade septic systems and components.
Perform maintenance on septic tanks, including cleaning, pumping, and de-sludging.
Advise customers on proper use and maintenance of septic systems.
Keep detailed records of maintenance tasks, repairs, and inspections.
Troubleshoot and repair issues with septic tanks, such as clogs, leaks, and damage.
Install and repair pipes and fixtures for septic systems.
Monitor the operation of septic tanks to ensure optimal performance.
Provide estimates for septic system repairs and replacements.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of septic system components and their functions
Understanding of local and state regulations pertaining to septic systems
Ability to use diagnostic tools such as a sewer camera
Proficiency in using pumps and other septic system equipment
Experience in safely handling hazardous materials
Excellent problem-solving skills
Ability to work in confined spaces
Knowledge of general construction and maintenance techniques
Good communication and customer service skills
Ability to work independently and in a team environment

The most important skill for a septic tank technician is problem solving. Being able to identify and address any issues that may arise with a septic tank is essential to their job. In order to solve septic tank problems, technicians must possess a thorough understanding of the system, its components, and how they all interact.

They must also be able to identify potential issues, diagnose existing problems, and develop and execute a plan of action. This requires knowledge of the local environment, regulations, and safety procedures. Furthermore, technicians must be able to communicate effectively with customers and other professionals, so that any issues can be addressed quickly and effectively.

Without the ability to accurately identify and address the problems that may arise with a septic tank, a technician can quickly become overwhelmed and unable to perform their job.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in septic tank installation and repair?
How would you handle a difficult situation with a customer regarding a septic issue?
What safety protocols do you follow when working on septic tanks?
How do you stay up to date on industry trends and regulations?
Describe a challenging project you worked on involving a septic tank.
What do you find most rewarding about working as a septic tank technician?
What steps do you take to prevent clogs and overflow problems in septic tanks?
Can you explain the basics of a septic system to a customer in a clear and concise way?
How do you troubleshoot a septic tank issue to determine the cause of the problem?
What qualifications do you have that make you an ideal candidate for this job?

Common Tools in Industry

Septic Tank Pump. Used to remove septic tank waste and solids (eg: a submersible pump).
Inspection Camera. Used to inspect and diagnose septic tank issues (eg: an endoscopic camera).
Vacuum Truck. Used to remove sludge and water from septic tanks (eg: a tank truck with a vacuum pump).
Manual Rodding Tools. Used to clear blocked septic tanks and lines (eg: a long metal rod with a hook at the end).
Septic Tank Cleaners. Used to clean out septic tanks (eg: a biodegradable solution).
Compaction Equipment. Used to compact soil after digging around the septic tank (eg: a compactor plate).
Safety Gear. Used to protect the technician while working (eg: gloves, goggles, and a hard hat).

Professional Organizations to Know

National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA)
National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWT)
American Association of Wastewater Technicians (AAWT)
The Septic Tank & Drainage Council (STDC)
The National Association of Wastewater Transporters (NAWTT)
Association of Home Sewer Contractors (AHSC)
Association of State Onsite Wastewater Professionals (ASOWP)
North American Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NAOWRA)

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Common Important Terms

Septic System. A septic system is an on-site wastewater treatment system used for the disposal of domestic sewage. It is composed of a septic tank, a drainfield, and other components.
Septic Tank. A septic tank is a large, watertight container that holds the waste from a households plumbing. It separates the solid waste from the liquid waste and allows the liquid to pass into an absorption field.
Drainfield. A drainfield is a network of underground pipes and trenches filled with gravel that transports wastewater away from the septic tank and into the soil.
Leachfield. A leachfield is a type of drainfield that uses leaching chambers or drainpipes to distribute wastewater into the soil.
Soil Absorption System. A soil absorption system is an on-site wastewater treatment system that uses the absorption capacity of the soil to treat wastewater.
Septic System Design. Septic system design is the process of designing a septic system that meets the needs of a specific property and local regulations.
Septic Tank Pumping. Septic tank pumping is the process of removing accumulated solids from a septic tank.
Septic Tank Cleaning. Septic tank cleaning is the process of removing accumulated solids from a septic tank and its associated components.
Septic Tank Inspection. Septic tank inspection is the process of inspecting a septic tank to ensure it is functioning properly.
Wastewater Treatment. Wastewater treatment is the process of removing contaminants from wastewater to make it suitable for reuse or discharge into the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of certification is required to become a Septic Tank Technician?

In order to become a Septic Tank Technician, you must obtain a certification from the National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWT).

How long does it take to become certified as a Septic Tank Technician?

It typically takes between 6 and 12 months to become certified as a Septic Tank Technician.

What are the duties of a Septic Tank Technician?

The primary duties of a Septic Tank Technician include installing, repairing, and maintaining septic systems and related equipment. They must also be able to assess and diagnose system failures, and provide preventative maintenance services.

What salary can a Septic Tank Technician expect to earn?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Septic Tank Technician is $35,477 per year.

What type of safety precautions must a Septic Tank Technician take?

Septic Tank Technicians must adhere to strict safety protocols, including wearing protective gear such as gloves, masks, and safety glasses when working with hazardous materials. They must also be aware of potential hazards such as high levels of methane gas and toxic chemicals.