Water Treatment Workshop Series

Hands-on workshops provide training in water quality, treatment systems, certification preparation, and applied research demonstrations while addressing critical community water infrastructure needs.

  • Principles of Drinking Water Treatment: Covers water resources, regulatory requirements, and quality verification.
  • Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery: Focuses on processing trains, solids management, and NPDES permits.
  • Energy Efficiency: Reviews unit operations and the application of renewables in water systems.

Workshop Schedule:
Seasonal workshops offered throughout the year.

Water Quality Education:
Participants learn fundamentals of water systems, treatment processes, and regulatory requirements.

Certification Opportunities:
Preparation for water operator certification exams.

Community Engagement:
Programs support local and regional water infrastructure needs.

Research & Demonstration:
Hands-on lab demonstrations and applied research experiences.

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A common job title for someone who completes a university-issued or state-issued drinking water or wastewater treatment certificate is:

  • Water Treatment Plant Operator 
  • Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator 
  • Water and Wastewater Treatment Plant and System Operator 
  • Sometimes also called an Operator-in-Training (OIT) or Certified Water/Wastewater Operator 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, these professionals operate and maintain systems that treat drinking water or wastewater to protect public health and the environment.

General Job Description

A water or wastewater treatment operator monitors, controls, and maintains equipment used to clean drinking water or process wastewater before it is released back into the environment.

Typical responsibilities include:

  • Monitoring treatment equipment and control systems 
  • Collecting and testing water samples 
  • Recording meter readings and treatment data 
  • Adjusting chemical levels and filtration systems
  • Performing equipment maintenance and repairs 
  • Ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations 
  • Responding to system emergencies or alarms 
  • Operating pumps, valves, and computerized control systems (SCADA) 

The work may occur in municipal water plants, wastewater facilities, utilities, manufacturing plants, or environmental service companies. 

Median Salary

As of May 2024, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for water and wastewater treatment plant and system operators was:

  • $58,260 per year 
  • $28.01 per hour 

Salary can increase with higher certification levels, supervisory responsibilities, and years of experience. Senior operators and chief operators may earn $70,000–$100,000+ in some regions. 

Career Opportunities

Career pathways often include:

  • Operator-in-Training (OIT) 
  • Licensed Operator 
  • Senior or Lead Operator 
  • Chief Operator 
  • Plant Supervisor or Plant Manager 
  • Environmental Compliance Specialist 
  • Utility Operations Manager 
  • Regulatory or Engineering Support Specialist 

Specializations may include:

  • Drinking water treatment 
  • Wastewater treatment 
  • Industrial water systems 
  • Laboratory analysis 
  • Automation and SCADA systems 
  • Environmental compliance 

Career Outlook

The BLS projects employment for water and wastewater treatment operators to decline slightly overall due to automation, but there are still expected to be approximately 10,700 job openings each year because of retirements and workforce replacement needs. 

Industry sources and professionals also report strong long-term demand because:

  • Water infrastructure is aging 
  • Many operators are nearing retirement 
  • Every community requires licensed water professionals 
  • Environmental regulations continue to increase 

Helpful Links

 

Water, Wastewater & Environmental Services Employers

Montgomery County Environmental Services

Offers positions such as Water Reclamation Plant Operator (Operator in Training) and Field Services Water Quality & Supply Operator. These roles provide strong entry points for individuals pursuing wastewater and drinking water operator careers. 

Greene County Sanitary Engineering Department

Operates water resource reclamation facilities and periodically hires developmental wastewater operators and maintenance technicians. 

City of Dayton Water Department

Provides career opportunities in drinking water treatment, distribution, and laboratory operations.

Veolia North America

International environmental services company that recruits entry-level and experienced wastewater operators and industrial water treatment technicians in the Dayton region.