Education · 1 of 4
The path
Get hired, pass the entry exam, then climb the classes with experience.
- 1
High school diploma
Grade 12
Required in Ontario, and in Alberta for every level except Small Systems. Chemistry, biology and math help most.
- 2
Optional college program
0 to 2 years
A water treatment diploma, such as Lambton College's 2 year program, or an environmental or chemical technician diploma. Not required, but it helps you get hired and counts toward higher classes.
- 3
Operator-in-training
Weeks to months
In Ontario, pass the operator-in-training exam (70% to pass) and get hired at a plant. The certificate lasts 36 months, and you must finish a 2 week entry-level course within 3 years. Alberta's first levels, Small Systems and Level I, need a required training course.
- 4
Class I certificate
1 year
After at least one year working in a municipal drinking water system, write the Class I exam.
- 5
Classes II, III and IV
Several more years
Each class needs more experience and, for the top classes, post-secondary education. Bigger plants need higher-class operators.