How to Be Sewer Inspector - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 7, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The increasing number of people living in cities has caused a dramatic increase in the amount of sewage that needs to be managed. This, in turn, has led to the creation of a whole new profession - sewer inspectors. Sewer inspectors are responsible for monitoring, inspecting and maintaining the sewer systems in their local area.

They use a variety of tools to check for clogs, breaks, and any other potential problems in the system. By doing this, they can ensure that the sewer system is running effectively, and that there are no potential hazards or risks to public health. Sewer inspectors also perform regular maintenance and repair on the system when necessary.

In addition, they may investigate complaints and do inspections to ensure that the sewer system meets all safety and environmental regulations.

Steps How to Become

Complete a High School Diploma or GED. To become a sewer inspector, you must first complete a high school diploma or GED.
Get Certified. Depending on the state and type of work, some jurisdictions may require sewer inspectors to get certified as a Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator.
Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits. Sewer inspectors may need to obtain licenses and permits from the local government or health department.
Take a Training Course. Many states require sewer inspectors to take a training course in order to become certified. This training course covers topics such as safety, regulations, inspection procedures, and reporting requirements.
Gain Experience. Many employers prefer to hire sewer inspectors with experience. It is a good idea to gain experience by working as an apprentice or laborer at a wastewater treatment plant or another related facility.
Find Employment. Once you have the necessary qualifications, you can search for employment as a sewer inspector. Job postings can be found in newspapers, online job sites, and job fairs.

In order to stay ahead and qualified as a sewer inspector, it is important to stay abreast of advances in the field and to ensure that all necessary certifications are up to date. Regular training and education are key to remaining knowledgeable about the latest regulations, technology, and safety practices. Keeping current with industry trends and participating in professional organizations can help inspectors stay ahead of the curve.

staying connected to other professionals in the field can provide support and feedback to ensure that inspectors are providing accurate information and adhering to all relevant standards. Finally, remaining knowledgeable about the latest technologies and materials used in the industry can help inspectors anticipate potential problems and provide valuable input in decision-making processes.

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Job Description

Inspect and evaluate the condition of sanitary sewers and associated structures within a designated area.
Collect and analyze samples of wastewater and soil to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Identify and report potential sources of pollution and hazardous conditions.
Inspect sewer lines, manholes, catch basins, lateral connections, house connections, lift stations, and other related infrastructure to assess functionality and safety.
Monitor and record the flow of wastewater through sewers to ensure proper operations.
Perform maintenance and repairs on sewer lines, pumps, and other related equipment as necessary.
Inspect construction sites to ensure that all work complies with local regulations and codes.
Prepare detailed reports of inspection results and recommend solutions for any identified problems.
Provide technical guidance and assistance to contractors, engineers, and other personnel as needed.
Maintain records of all inspections, tests, and repairs.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of plumbing and sewer systems and components.
Ability to read and interpret plans and blueprints.
Ability to identify safety hazards and ensure compliance with regulations.
Ability to use specialized tools and equipment for testing and inspecting.
Knowledge of local and state regulations related to sewer systems.
Knowledge of, and ability to use, data management software.
Ability to work independently, multitask, and prioritize tasks effectively.
Physical strength and stamina to climb ladders, crawl in tight spaces, and lift heavy objects.
Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
Ability to provide detailed reports on inspections.

The most important skill for a sewer inspector to have is a keen eye and the ability to identify problems quickly. This skill is essential in order to be able to assess the condition of the sewer system, detect any potential blockages or damage, and take appropriate measures to prevent the system from becoming completely obstructed. sewer inspectors must be able to identify the source of any odours, as these can often indicate a problem that needs to be addressed.

Furthermore, it is important for sewer inspectors to have knowledge of the various types of equipment and tools necessary for carrying out inspections, such as cameras, detectors and cleaning agents. Lastly, good communication skills are also essential for effective collaboration with other professionals, such as engineers and other contractors involved in the systems maintenance. All of these skills combined will help to ensure that the sewer system is suitably maintained and any potential problems are identified and resolved quickly and efficiently.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in sewer inspection?
What safety protocols do you follow while inspecting sewers?
How do you identify and address potential hazards?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex issue with a sewer system.
How do you stay up-to-date on changes in sewer inspection technologies?
How would you handle a situation in which a customer refuses to comply with your recommendations?
How do you ensure accuracy when taking measurements and recording data?
What steps do you take to analyze and interpret the information gathered during an inspection?
Describe the process of preparing written reports on sewer inspections.
How do you maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with regulations?

Common Tools in Industry

Sewer Camera. This tool is used to inspect drains and sewer lines for blockages and potential problems. Example: An inspector would use a sewer camera to check for blockages in a sewer line.
Pressure Gauges. These are used to measure water pressure in various areas of the sewer system. Example: An inspector may use a pressure gauge to measure the pressure in a pipe to ensure it is not compromised.
Flow Meters. These devices are used to measure the flow of wastewater in a sewer system. Example: An inspector may use a flow meter to measure the rate at which water is flowing through a pipe.
Manhole Covers. These covers are used to access manholes, allowing an inspector to safely enter the area and inspect it. Example: An inspector may remove a manhole cover to access a pipe and look for signs of damage or blockages.
Smoke Detection Equipment. This equipment can be used to detect gases and vapors that may be present in a sewer system, such as methane and carbon monoxide. Example: An inspector may deploy smoke detection equipment to identify any hazardous gases present in a sewer system.

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association of Sewer Service Companies (NASSCO)
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Water Environment Federation (WEF)
American Public Works Association (APWA)
National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association (NOWRA)
National Association of Wastewater Technicians (NAWT)
American Water Works Association (AWWA)
American Concrete Pipe Association (ACPA)
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
Association of State and Interstate Water Pollution Control Administrators (ASIWPCA)

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Common Important Terms

Sewer System. A system of pipes, pumps, and other infrastructure used to collect and transport wastewater from residential, commercial, and industrial sources to a treatment plant.
Sewer Line. A line of pipes that carries wastewater from building and other sources to a wastewater collection system or treatment facility.
Sewage Treatment Plant. A facility that removes pollutants from wastewater before it is discharged into the environment.
Septic Tank. A tank designed to store and treat solid and liquid waste from a single-family residence or small business.
Rainwater Harvesting. The collection and storage of water runoff from roofs or other surfaces for reuse.
Stormwater Drainage System. A system of pipes, channels, and other infrastructure used to collect, convey, and discharge stormwater runoff.
Wastewater Treatment Plant. A facility that removes pollutants from wastewater before it is discharged into the environment.
Leak Detection. The process of locating, diagnosing, and repairing leaks in a plumbing system or sewer line.
Sewer Mapping. The process of creating an accurate map of a sewer system, including its pipes, valves, manholes, and other infrastructure components.
Sewer Cleaning. The process of removing debris and obstructions from sewer lines to prevent blockages and improve flow capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Sewer Inspector?

A Sewer Inspector is a professional who inspects and evaluates sewers and related infrastructure such as manholes, catch basins and drainage systems.

What qualifications are required to become a Sewer Inspector?

To become a Sewer Inspector, applicants typically need to have experience in the construction or plumbing industry, and may need to possess a valid drivers license, a high school diploma or GED, and specialized certifications or licenses.

What duties does a Sewer Inspector typically carry out?

Duties of a Sewer Inspector include performing inspections of sewers, manholes, catch basins, and other structures; recording measurements of pipes and other drainage systems; analyzing drainage systems for potential problems; preparing reports; and providing recommendations for repairs.

What tools does a Sewer Inspector use?

A Sewer Inspector typically uses tools such as cameras, GPS, laser measuring devices, and computers to evaluate sewer systems.

What safety precautions should be taken when carrying out sewer inspections?

When carrying out sewer inspections, safety precautions should include wearing personal protective equipment such as boots, gloves, and goggles; using breathing apparatus when entering confined spaces; and following all safety protocols.