If the question, “Is public utilities a good career path?” is also of interest to you, then this post will show you all you need to know about the careers public utilities industry offers.
But first, let’s start with an overview of public utilities.
What are Public Utilities?
They are entities that provide essential services to the public.
In other words, these businesses make available necessary services to the general populace.
These essential services include the supply of electricity, gas, water, waste disposal, telecommunications, public warehouses, television cable system, bus transportation or the train network.
Public utilities can be small business outfits providing services in a local community. They can also be large corporations owned by a government of a state or a country.
The word “utilities” connotes the services provided by these businesses.
Is public utilities a good career path?
Reiterating what has been established, public utilities play a critical role in the economy and in our everyday lives.
They are responsible for providing essential services, such as electricity, water, and gas. Also, they provide a range of other services, such as transportation and waste management.
However, there is no one right answer when it comes to whether or not public utilities are the best career path for you.
The decision depends largely on your personal interests and goals, as well as your skills and knowledge base.
Public utilities are one of the most undervalued professions.
There are many reasons for this, but one of the most important is that the public does not understand or appreciate the importance of public utilities. They are often seen as mundane, and not glamorous. This is a mistake.
Public utilities are a great career prospect. They offer a wide range of opportunities, from entry-level jobs to highly prestigious positions.
They also offer a variety of benefits, including excellent job security and a good retirement plan.
Why is a career in public utilities a good option?
There are a number of reasons why a career in public utilities is a good option.
First, public utilities are a critical part of the economy. They provide essential services that are required by everyone in the country.
Second, public utilities are highly diverse. They cover a wide range of industries, from transportation to energy. This makes them a good option for anyone who wants to switch careers or make an entrance into a new field.
Third, public utilities offer a good range of benefits, including excellent pay and benefits, excellent retirement plans, and good job security.
Fourth, public utilities are a good stepping stone to other, more prestigious careers. Many public utilities workers start their careers in entry-level positions and move up the ladder over time.
Semi-Skilled Career Opportunities in Public Utilities Industry
Just like many career paths in the basic industries, formal education is not mandatory for these skilled trade careers.
However, certifications and on-the-job training are very essential to carry out their functions effectively.
The job titles under these categories include:
- Electricians
- Meter Readers
- Plumbers
- Water Treatment Officers
- Sewage Disposal Officers
- Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant Operators
- Sewer Pipe Cleaners
- Septic Tank Servicers
- Electrical and Electronic Technicians
- Electrical Equipment Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers
- Power Plant Operators, Distributors, and Dispatchers
- Gas Distributors
- Gas Plant Operators
Top Government Jobs in the Public Utilities Industry
Public utilities services are not limited to electricians or plumbers. The following are some of the notable government jobs in the public utilities space:
- Social Worker
- Firefighter
- Police Officer
- Library Worker
- Environmental Scientist
- Attorney
- Teacher
- Nurse
- Air Traffic Controller
- Postal Worker
Top Rated Public Utilities Jobs
This is not an exhaustive list of the highest-paying jobs in the public utilities domain but the following are some of them:
1. Utilities Manager
A manager in this context ensures residents and businesses in the area of jurisdiction are provided with the necessities.
Such a person makes sure the electrical plants, telecommunications, transportation, water treatment plants and other facilities are fully functional to serve occupants of a specified area.
2. Renewable Energy Managers
These people are responsible for the coordination of the harnessing of renewable energies such as wind, solar and water.
3. Pipeline Inspectors
Pipelines transport liquids and their maintenance is of utmost priority for the safety of people.
These professionals watch out for any potential issues such as corrosion or leakages and ensure they are fixed immediately.
4. Natural Gas Distribution Managers
They are primarily responsible for the efficient and safe distribution of natural gas within their area of coverage.
5. Water Engineers
Water is a basic necessity and these professionals design, construct and maintains the water supply and wastewater treatment facilities.
6. Electric Power Plant Managers
Electricity is a major need, isn’t it? Of course, yes!
We power most of our gadgets with electricity and this means the source must be protected.
Managers in this regard oversee the operations around electric power plants. Among others, they manage the procurement of new spare parts and manage the technicians.
7. Accountants
They are very important in any industry
They calculate revenue, and expenses and make sure the account is balanced.
Also, they help the management to make informed decisions on what to do. Like perks for customers, subscription rate etc.
8. Administrative Officers
Excellent office operation is key.
It brings orderliness and helps your clients (potential and paying) to perceive your organization as a professional outfit.
Administrative Officers help in filing, bookkeeping, scheduling, etc.
A proficient admin relieves the executive members of so many obligations and helps in the judicious administration of resources.
9. Customer Service Representatives
This career is considered top-rated because it is at the core of a company’s success.
Utilities agencies also work for individuals, households and organizations and somebody must always be the intermediary between these clients and the company.
People occupying these position help clients with their needs and also update them on any new development.
Also, these individuals schedule appointments for maintenance and repairs.
Pros of Public Utilities Careers
The following are the advantages of working is a company associated with the public utilities industry:
1. Revenue: workers, especially experienced ones enjoy attractive revenue.
2. Benefits: paid off days and sick leave are usually accessible to workers.
3. Growth: working for an organization in the public utilities space affords you’re the opportunity to climb career ladders e.g. from a supervisor to a manager.
4. Security: so far you don’t default your organization rules, your expertise and experience will keep you on the job. Likewise, you will remain relevant.
Cons of Public Utilities Careers
The disadvantages include:
1. Injury: workers in some careers are prone to having injuries e.g. electrical Sparks, iron piercing the flesh, construction collapse, etc, however, protective gear should be supplied to prevent injury at work.
2. Dirtiness: some career options in the public utilities industry are not white collar.
For example, as a lumberman, you will have to enter the jungle and if you are a machine repairer, you should be super prepared for the splashes of engine oil on your clothes or even your body.
3. Physical: many of the careers usually requires physical strength because there’s a lot of handling of heavy tools. As a result, a worker must be in good health and physically fit.
4. Environment: many personnel in this space are usually exposed to different weather conditions and some can be adverse. For instance, a hot, rainy, cold or snowy condition may negatively affect the health of an outdoor worker.
Conclusion: Is Public Utilities a Good Career Path?
Primarily, utility workers are meant to provide essential services to the general public.
These services cut across basic needs which include infrastructure installation and maintenance, repair of equipment, and transportation of essential goods and services.
This article has listed some of the options available and you are at liberty to choose anyone you prefer and run with it.
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