- 1). Obtain an education. Choose from one of three educational paths: a high school education, an associate degree or a bachelor's of science degree. If you choose the traditional educational path, such as a higher degree, the opportunity to advance in the career path occurs more frequently than for a person with only a high school or GED. For example, in New York, operators start at the same level. However, a person with a bachelor's degree can achieve Grade 4 certification (if he passes the exams) with only two years' experience, while the person with only a high school education will take a minimum of eight years to reach that level.
- 2). Seek employment as a wastewater treatment operator. All operators, regardless of their schooling, must start in the entry-level position. Those with advanced schooling in the career path, such as coursework in water quality monitoring, water and wastewater technology, or environmental technology are more readily hired than those with only a high school or GED education.
- 3). Stay on the job and get experience for the minimum period required by your particular state's jurisdiction. In New York, operators must have a minimum of six months' experience on the job before applying for the Grade 1 exam. Applicants pay a fee for the test and must be approved to take the certification test. Each state sets the requirements for wastewater certification. Check with your local state's jurisdiction to find out about its requirements for testing.
- 4). Apply to take the test. Some states require approval of your application before you are considered eligible to take the test.
- 5). Study for the exam. In California, the state provides sample questions of what a person can expect on the test. Review your state's requirements and sample tests to get an idea of what you must study. Online coursework is also available to practice for the test and often has complete sample tests for a fee.
- 6). Pass the exam. In Wisconsin, certification as a wastewater treatment operator requires a minimum passing score of 75 percent.
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