To work as a water treatment plant operator, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete long-term, on-the-job training; and
• pass state or local licensing exams.

Education after high school

Some water treatment plant operators complete a formal training program. Professional-technical schools and two-year colleges offer programs in water quality. In this type of program you learn the basics of water and liquid waste treatment. Training programs offer a certificate or associate degree.

On-the-job training

Most water treatment plant operators learn their skills on the job from an experienced worker. Even if you complete a formal training program, you also need to complete on-the-job training. As a trainee, you begin by recording meter readings and testing water samples. As you gain experience, you learn to maintain and repair pumps and valves. You also learn safety procedures. Training may last up to two years.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently set minimum standards for certification of drinking water treatment plant operators. Most state drinking water and water pollution control agencies offer training courses to improve your skills and knowledge.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be water and sewage treatment plant operators. Training lasts eight to ten weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.