Industrial technicians are responsible for the planning and design of storage dams, canals, tunnels, pipelines and pumping and irrigation schemes. They are also responsible for the preparation of cost estimates, economic calculations and reports on water schemes and for the measuring and computing of hydrological data.
Industrial technicians give advice to irrigation boards, municipalities and farmers on irrigation matters. They survey the sites for new hydrological measuring stations and are involved in the design, maintenance and improvement of existing measuring structures and instruments.
Industrial technicians prepare and survey sites for flood calculations and make flow measurements, using instruments to calibrate measuring points. They assist engineers and hydrologists and spend a great deal of time out of the office collecting and processing data.
Satisfying Aspects
- being responsible for feasible usage of water in an efficient and safe manner
- working mostly outdoors and in rural areas
- some possibility of self-employment
Demanding aspects
- lots of on-site work where overnight stays might be necessary
- working in adverse weather conditions
Requirements
An industrial technician in hydrometry should:
- have mathematical and scientific aptitude;
- have good observation and supervisory skills;
- have good interpersonal relations;
- able to work independently and as part of a team;
- be computer literate;
- be willing to work outdoors and even live in the field, if necessary.
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Geography, Mechanical Technology
Training
Diploma: N.Dip: Civil Engineering - CPUT, CUT, DUT, TUT, VUT.
Employer
- Department of Water Affairs
- agricultural unions
- self-employment, as a consultant
Contact
The Deputy Director: Hydrometry
Department of Water Affairs
Private Bag X313
Pretoria, 0001
Tel. (012) 338-7949