Steps to Become a Water Operator
The timeframe to become a certified water operator varies depending on the certification level and stream. It typically ranges from 1.5 to 3 years, including training, certification, and gaining practical experience. Operators are certified at levels from Operator-in-Training (OIT) to Class I-IV, with each level reflecting the complexity of systems they can manage. They can also specialize in various streams such as water treatment, wastewater treatment, water distribution, and water collection. For more details on certification levels and streams, visit our FAQs section
Meet the Prerequisites
Be 18 years or older. Have a high school diploma or equivalent (science and math are recommended). Get familiar with the role and choose your stream: Water Treatment, Wastewater Treatment, Distribution Systems, and/or Collection Systems
complete training
Enroll in a program with certified training providers in your province or territory. Training durations vary from 6 months to 1 year, depending on the program. Costs range from $1,000–$5,000, depending on the provider. More information on training programs found below.
pass certification exam
Write the exam through your province’s certifying body (e.g., EOCP, OWWCO). Start with Operator-in-Training (OIT) certification and work up to Levels I-IV. Information on certifying bodies found below.
gain experience and stay certified
Secure an internship or entry-level job to gain hands-on experience. Maintain your certification with continuing education and renewals.
Training Programs and Certifying Bodies Across Canada
To learn more about the institutions offering training programs, their costs, and certifying bodies in each province or territory, click 'Read More' under the province or territory name.
Alberta Training Providers: Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) Certifying Body: Alberta Environment and Parks Estimated Training Costs: $2,000–$5,000 CAD
Newfoundland and Labrador Training Providers: College of the North Atlantic Certifying Body: Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Environment and Conservation Estimated Training Costs: $1,500–$3,500 CAD
Nunavut Training Providers: Nunavut Arctic College Certifying Body: Nunavut Department of Community and Government Services Estimated Training Costs: $2,000–$4,000 CAD
Northwest Territories Training Providers: Aurora College Certifying Body: Government of Northwest Territories Environment and Natural Resources Estimated Training Costs: $2,000–$4,000 CAD
British Columbia Training Providers: British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) Certifying Body: Environmental Operators Certification Program (EOCP) Estimated Training Costs: $1,000–$4,000 CAD
Manitoba Training Providers: Red River College Certifying Body: Manitoba Conservation and Climate Estimated Training Costs: $2,000–$4,500 CAD
New Brunswick Training Providers: New Brunswick Community College Certifying Body: New Brunswick Department of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Estimated Training Costs: $1,500–$3,500 CAD
Nova Scotia Training Providers: Nova Scotia Community College Certifying Body: Nova Scotia Environment Estimated Training Costs: $1,500–$3,500 CAD
Ontario Training Providers: -Fleming College -Walkerton Clean Water Centre Certifying Body: -Ontario Water Wastewater -Certification Office (OWWCO) Estimated Training Costs: $1,500–$4,000 CAD
Prince Edward Island Training Providers: Holland College Certifying Body: Prince Edward Island Department of Environment, Water, and Climate Change Estimated Training Costs: $1,000–$3,000 CAD
Quebec Training Providers: Cégep de Saint-Laurent Certifying Body: Ministère de l'Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques Estimated Training Costs: $2,500–$5,000 CAD
Yukon Training Providers: Yukon University Certifying Body: Yukon Environmental Health Services Estimated Training Costs: $2,000–$4,000 CAD
Saskatchewan Training Providers: Saskatchewan Polytechnic Certifying Body: Saskatchewan Operator Certification Board (SaskOCB) Estimated Training Costs: $1,800–$3,500 CAD
The Path to Water Careers
Explore insights, stories, and practical advice on starting and succeeding in your water operator career.
In Their Words: Operators’ Stories
Learn how operators got started, what they do, and why they love their work
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What are the basic requirements to become a water or wastewater operator?Generally, you must be at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or equivalent (with emphasis on science and math), and complete a recognized training program.
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How long does it take to become a certified operator?The timeline varies based on the certification level pursued. Achieving Class I certification typically requires 1 to 2 years, including education, training, and hands-on experience.
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Explain certification levelsWater and wastewater operators in Canada are certified at various levels, indicating their expertise and the complexity of systems they are qualified to manage. Operator-in-Training (OIT): Entry-level certification allowing individuals to gain practical experience under supervision. Class I to IV Operators: Advanced certifications corresponding to the complexity and size of the facility: Class I: Basic level for small or less complex systems. Class II: Intermediate level requiring more experience and knowledge. Class III: Advanced level for larger, more complex systems. Class IV: Highest level, indicating extensive expertise and ability to manage the most complex systems. Each class requires specific education, experience, and successful completion of certification exams.
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Is certification transferable between provinces?Certification reciprocity exists but varies by province. It's advisable to consult the certifying body in the province where you intend to work.
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Explain operator classes and streamsOperators specialize in different areas of water and wastewater management: Water Treatment Operator: Manages processes that make water safe for consumption. Wastewater Treatment Operator: Oversees treatment of sewage and industrial wastewater to protect public health and the environment. Water Distribution Operator: Ensures safe and reliable delivery of potable water through distribution systems. Wastewater Collection Operator: Maintains systems that collect and transport wastewater to treatment facilities. Each stream focuses on specific aspects of water management, requiring targeted training and certification.
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Can I specialize in more than one stream?Yes, operators can obtain multiple certifications across different streams, provided they meet the education, experience, and examination requirements for each.
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What are the continuing education requirements?Operators must engage in ongoing professional development to maintain certification. Specific requirements differ by province and certification level.
Still have questions? Contact us for more details.
