St. Petersburg, Fla (970 WFLA) - As part of its Career Exploration Series, St. Petersburg College is hosting a career exploration event for those interested in the public utilities field today at the St.Petersburg College Seminole Campus University Partnership Center Lobby, 9200 113th St. N, Seminole, from 4 to 7 p.m.
Attendees will be able to learn about current and future career openings, training requirements, salaries and scholarship opportunities from public utility representatives from local governments, St. Petersburg College, Pinellas Technical College as well as various professional and technical organizations. Participants/exhibitors include: City of Tarpon Springs, City of Largo - Environmental Services Department, City of St. Petersburg - Water Resources Department, Pinellas Technical College/Public Works Academy, University of Florida TREEO Center, American Public Works Association, Pasco County Utilities, City of Largo - Environmental Services Department, Pinellas County Utilities, St. Petersburg College, University of South Florida.
Demand for entry-level and skilled public works/utilities positions is steadily increasing, with salaries ranging from $30,000 for an entry-level employee to more than $100,000 per year for an experienced public utilities technical or professional employee. This is due, in part, to more stringent regulations and more limited natural resources, as well as a steady stream of retiring professionals which are creating an increasing need for this type of professional.
Veterans, especially those with prior training in these areas, are encouraged to attend.
The public utilities profession has a wide range of needs and career opportunities. Depending on individual interests and skills, there is a need for professionals in the areas of:Public utilities administration (leadership, compliance, public relations, data management, project management, reporting, accounting/finance, etc.) Water and wastewater treatment. Collection and distribution systems (such as pipelines and pumping stations). Water quality maintenance and analysis (including laboratory positions).
Electrical/mechanical maintenance and repair. Computer/control systems programming, maintenance and repair, information technology. Professional consulting (engineering, hydrogeology, economics, environmental science, etc.
Graphic Credit:St. Petersburg College