Dam Flow Control Operator (Dam Management Office)
ほうりゅうりょうちょうせいそうさかかり
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialized profession that monitors the dam's storage volume and downstream water levels, and appropriately operates and manages discharge flow according to purposes such as flood control, power generation, and water supply.
Description
Dam flow control operators work at dam management offices, formulate and execute discharge plans tailored to various purposes such as flood control, discharge for power generation, and securing water for waterworks, based on data on reservoir water levels, rainfall, and snowmelt. They open and close gates and valves remotely or manually, ensure safety downstream, collaborate with power plants, and provide information to related municipalities and residents. In case of abnormalities, they are required to make quick judgments and operations according to emergency response procedures. It also includes inspection and maintenance of observation systems and control devices, creation of operation records, and review of plans annually or seasonally.
Future Outlook
While the importance of measures against heavy rains and droughts due to climate change increases, labor shortages due to declining birthrate and aging population are challenges. Smart dam initiatives, remote operation, and automation systems are advancing, requiring operational efficiency improvements and acquisition of advanced technologies.
Personality Traits
Able to respond calmly in emergencies / Calm and composed / Sharp observational skills / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Dam Flow Control Operator (Junior) → Discharge Management Supervisor → Dam Operation Manager → Dam Management Office Director → Water Resources Department Manager
Required Skills
Emergency Response Procedures / Hydraulics Basics / Meteorological Data Analysis / Monitoring System Operation / Valve Operation / Water Level Measurement Technology
Recommended Skills
Automatic Control System Knowledge / Crisis Management Knowledge / GIS Utilization / Reading English Technical Documents / SCADA System Operation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | High flexibility is required to respond to sudden weather changes and emergencies. |
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Because it is necessary to determine appropriate discharge flow based on hydraulic calculations and meteorological data. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because small misoperations can lead to safety risks. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because mathematical abilities are required for discharge flow calculations and water level predictions. |
| Planning & Organization | Because it is necessary to create discharge plans according to flood seasons or dry seasons. |
| Problem Solving | Because quick and accurate responses to sudden changes in situations are required. |
| Stress Tolerance | High stress tolerance is required due to work in an environment involving flood damage risks. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Operations are mostly based on manuals, so high creativity is not required. |
Related Qualifications
- First-class Civil Engineering Construction Management Engineer
- Professional Engineer (Construction Department)
- Second-class Civil Engineering Construction Management Engineer
Aliases
- Dam Discharge Operator
- Dam Operator
- Discharge Operator
Related Jobs
- Dam Monitor
- Hydrological Observation Technician
- River Management Engineer
- Water Resources Management Engineer