You will provide water supply, waste water treatment and environmental engineering support to operational units at home and abroad. You will install, operate and maintain water treatment and supply systems, waste water collection and treatment systems, set up and monitor various environmental programs, produce associated mechanical designs and specifications and associated mechanical drawings.

The Water, Fuel and Environmental Technician (WFE TECH) provides water supply, waste water treatment and environmental engineering support to operational units at home and abroad. During peacetime, WFE TECHs maintain their skills while employed at home units or on humanitarian and United Nations operational assignments. The WFE TECH occupation is one of seven Construction Engineering occupations involved in the supply of all construction, civil, electrical and mechanical engineering services in support of Canadian Forces operations worldwide.

• Install, operate and maintain water treatment and supply systems
• Install, operate and maintain waste water collection and treatment systems
• Set up and monitor various environmental programs
• Produce associated mechanical designs and specifications
• Produce associated mechanical drawings
• Conduct reconnaissance related to the above
• Assist other Construction Engineering tradespersons

WFE TECHs require a comprehensive knowledge of math and a detailed knowledge of chemistry. They must also possess good reasoning skills, and be resourceful and innovative in solving unusual mechanical problems.

Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a team are essential, as are good handeye coordination and manual dexterity. WFE TECHs should enjoy working outdoors and be able to maintain a high level of physical fitness.

WFE TECHs within the Canadian Forces consider their occupation to be both challenging and rewarding. There are good opportunities for advancement and specialty training for those who meet the job requirements, show potential leadership abilities and enjoy working in a team environment.

On completion of basic occupational training, WFE TECHs can expect to be posted to one of the following units:

• Airfield Engineering Flight (Air Force Environment)
• Construction Troop (Army Environment)
• Naval Construction Troop (Navy Environment)
• Base/Wing Construction Engineering Section

These units are located across Canada at such locations as Winnipeg, Man., Gagetown, N.B., Halifax and Greenwood, N.S., Petawawa, Ont., Valcartier and Bagotville, Que., Cold Lake and Edmonton, Alta., and Esquimalt, B.C.

Personnel who demonstrate the required ability and motivation can undertake advanced occupational training through formal courses and on-the-job training as they progress in their career field. Specialty training may also be provided. Those WFE TECHs who have the required qualifications and attain the rank of Sergeant would be eligible to enter the Construction Engineering Superintendent (MOC 649) occupation, with possible progression to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. Listed below are examples of the specialty courses available.

Specialty Courses

• Advanced Water Treatment
• Instructional Techniques

WFE TECHs often work day or night, exposed to the elements, under varying environmental and austere conditions involving long hours of standing, bending, and twisting. They are frequently required to work from elevated heights and carry materials and equipment weighing up to 45 kg. Working conditions often include risk of bodily injury and exposure to noise, vibration, dust, and noxious or toxic fumes. Mental stress can be high when occupational duties must be performed under operational conditions with limited resources and time.

Appropriate training, environmental clothing and equipment are provided, and Water, Fuel and Environmental Technicians’ health, safety and morale are closely monitored.