What License Water Treatment Plant Operator License Do I Get First?

Working in a water treatment plant can be a rewarding career choice. One of the requirements to work as a water treatment plant operator is obtaining the necessary certification and licenses. This article will provide an overview of the different levels of water treatment plant operator licenses and what license to get first to start your career in the water treatment industry.

Understanding Water Treatment Plant Operator Licenses

Water treatment plant operator licenses are issued by the state regulatory agency responsible for overseeing the drinking water and wastewater systems in a particular geographical area. Generally, these licenses are divided into different levels, indicating the amount of responsibility and complexity of the operation.

The three most common levels of water treatment plant operator licenses are:

Class C

Class B

Class A

Each level of license requires a specified level of education, work experience, and passing an examination. The higher the class of license, the more responsibility and pay you can expect.

Getting Started as a Water Treatment Plant Operator

If you're interested in starting a career in the water treatment industry, the first license you should obtain is a Class C license. This is the entry-level license that most water treatment facilities require their employees to have.

The requirements for a Class C license can vary by state, but generally, you'll need a high school diploma or GED equivalent, completion of an approved training program, and passing a certification exam. Some states may require additional experience working in a water treatment plant as well.

Once you have your Class C license, you can start working as an operator in a water treatment plant. It's important to gain as much experience as possible at this level, working under the guidance of experienced plant operators. This will help you gain the knowledge and skills necessary to advance to the next level.

Moving Up to a Class B License

After gaining experience as a Class C licensed operator, you can move up to obtaining a Class B license. A Class B license allows you to work in a larger facility, and often comes with increased responsibility and pay.

The requirements for a Class B license are typically more stringent than those for a Class C license. You'll likely need to have several years of experience working in a water treatment plant, obtain additional education, and pass a more comprehensive certification exam.

Becoming a Class A Licensed Operator

A Class A license is the highest level of water treatment plant operator license. With a Class A license, you'll be qualified to work in a managerial or supervisory position within a water treatment plant.

The requirements for a Class A license are the most stringent. You'll typically need a Bachelor's degree in a related field, several years of experience as a Class B licensed operator, and pass a comprehensive certification exam.

Conclusion

Obtaining the necessary certifications and licenses is essential for anyone interested in working as a water treatment plant operator. Starting with a Class C license and gaining experience and education is the best way to advance to higher levels of certification and employment. With dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goals of becoming a Class A licensed operator in the water treatment industry.