Aquatic Facility Technician

Also called: Pool Operator

Keeps pools at aquatic centers, colleges and YMCAs clean and safe, testing water chemistry and repairing pumps, filters and heaters.

A day in the life

An aquatic technician tests pool chemicals, fixes pumps and filters, and keeps the water safe for swimmers. Early mornings before the pool opens are common.

Pay over a career

Starting
$32k
Typical
$45k
High
$65k

Approximate.

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

Certificate, about 1 year after high school. A Certified Pool and Spa Operator (CPO) course, usually two days, plus on-the-job training; mechanical skills help you advance.

Ways in: Certification. Training cost: Under $15k.

Outlook

Growing about average (about 3% over 10 years). Similar to maintenance workers.

Will it last? Our AI estimate

Low risk for 10 years. Automated chemical controllers help, but fixing pumps, filters and heaters stays hands-on.

Could start within a month

Age 18+. One way to start: Sign up for a 2-day Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) course, then apply at aquatic centers First: CPO (Certified Pool and Spa Operator), a 2-day course and test

Start now, in high school

Classes: Chemistry, Electrical or plumbing CTE, Physical education.

Official data: O*NET occupation 49-9071.

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Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.