To Become a Certified Water or Wastewater Operator in Ohio an individual must:
1) Apply for and Pass: (score 70+)
The State Operator Certification Exam
2) Document the:
Appropriate Level of Hands on Work Experience
3) Read OEPA's Required:
Operator Rules & Requirements Training
4) Complete and Submit an:
Application to Become a Certified Operator
**Water and Wastewater Operators are Officially Certified through the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency**
What are the Levels of Required Work Experience?
Class A: 1,040 hours
Class I: 12 months
Class II: 24 months
Class III: 48 months
Class IV: +24 months
(additional months while holding a valid Class III and obtaining management experience at a Class III or IV facility)
**All Certifications require a high school diploma or GED**
**Reductions available for education and course completion. Contact OEPA for details.**
What Kinds of Work Experience Count?
Counts
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Counts (max of 25%)
Counts for a maximum of 25 percent of requirement, if job responsibilities consist solely of one or more of the following:
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Does NOT Count
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What is an Operator-In-Training?
If an individual has enough education and knowledge, but not enough appropriate work experience, they may still be approved to take one or more of the certifications exams.
Once they have been approved for and passed an examination, they can apply to become an "Operator-In-Training." Use this helpful video if you need assistance creating an eBusiness account.
From the day they are approved to be an Operator-In-Training; they will have up to 60 months to complete the appropriate required work experience based on their desired certification.
Upon completion of the appropriate required work experience, they can submit an official application to become certified as a professional Operator in the classification they applied for (limited to class A, I, II examinations).
Once they have been approved for and passed an examination, they can apply to become an "Operator-In-Training." Use this helpful video if you need assistance creating an eBusiness account.
From the day they are approved to be an Operator-In-Training; they will have up to 60 months to complete the appropriate required work experience based on their desired certification.
Upon completion of the appropriate required work experience, they can submit an official application to become certified as a professional Operator in the classification they applied for (limited to class A, I, II examinations).
Why Certification Matters?
- Obtaining proper certification is essential for compliance with Ohio regulations and maintaining safe drinking water and efficient wastewater treatment.
- Certification demonstrates your expertise and dedication to the profession, opening up various career opportunities within the industry.
- Operating any water and wastewater system requires a certified license.
Glossary of Key Terms
For some industry-specific terms, acronyms, and definitions click here.
Want Additional Information & Support?
As a certified operator, you must fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain your certification. The Ohio Rural Water Association and other organizations offer various opportunities for professional development, including:
- Workshops, seminars, and webinars on industry topics and emerging technologies.
- Conferences and networking events that provide insights, knowledge sharing, and the chance to connect with industry experts.
- Continuing education courses that help you stay updated on regulatory changes, best practices, and new advancements in the field.
- Consider becoming a member of ORWA to become part of a community of water professionals and industry-specific resources. Click here to learn more about ORWA Membership.
At Ohio Rural Water Association, we know that finding your passion is often a long but rewarding journey. We hope this information will help you along your career journey and hope to see you at one a future ORWA Event!
Have Questions? Contact Us Today!
Disclaimer: The information provided on this webpage is for guidance purposes only. It is essential to consult official sources and regulations for the most accurate and updated requirements.