Driftsoperatører

Driftsoperatør is a professional responsible for the daily operation and monitoring of technical systems or processes in industries such as energy production, water and wastewater treatment, manufacturing, and district heating. The role focuses on ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient operation of equipment and processes.

Responsibilities typically include monitoring process parameters through control systems (such as SCADA or PLCs), starting and stopping equipment, adjusting set-points, and responding to alarms. Driftsoperatører perform routine inspections, carry out tests, and implement preventive maintenance tasks in coordination with maintenance teams. They follow established procedures, maintain operation logs, document deviations, and participate in safety and environmental compliance, including risk assessments and incident reporting.

Industries where driftsoperatører are employed include power plants (hydroelectric, thermal, wind), water and wastewater facilities, district heating plants, chemical and food processing, and various manufacturing environments. The role may also appear in data centers and other facilities with continuous operation requirements.

Qualifications and training typically involve vocational education or apprenticeship in automation, electrical, mechanical, or process technology. Knowledge of instrumentation, sensors, and control systems (SCADA/PLCs/DCS) is common, along with basic electrical and mechanical skills. Safety training and related certifications (such as permit-to-work and lockout-tagout) are often required. Some positions may require higher education for progression.

Work conditions frequently involve shift work, including nights and weekends, and may require on-call duties. Driftsoperatører work in industrial plants, power stations, or field sites, where high safety and reliability standards are essential. With experience, career prospects include advancement to driftleder (shift supervisor), senior operator, or roles in maintenance, commissioning, or process engineering.