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How to Become a Licensed Operator and Advance within the Operator Profession
Levels of Water Operator Licenses
Water systems are defined through a process of grading points, Class I to IV in both treatment and distribution categories according to complexity and population served. See Appendix A of the Rules. Operators of these systems must show competency by successfully completing examinations in both treatment and distribution categories and possess the appropriate experience. Very Small Water Systems (VSWS) operators are another classification that covers both treatment and distribution characteristics of systems with less than a population of 500.
Characteristics of a Water Operator
An operator must possess the knowledge, skills, ability and judgment to assure safe drinking water. This is measured through a review of education, experience and examination.
Education & Experience
Operators must have a high school diploma or GED. Experience is based on work in a public water system as well as credit for related professions. The Board offers Operator – In - Training (OIT) license status for persons that have successfully passed examinations but have not achieved the required experience. Holding an OIT license shows employers or prospective employers your capability and interest in the profession.
| License | Experience Required |
|---|---|
| Very Small Water System | Six months |
| Class I | One year |
| Class II | Two years |
| Class III | Three years |
| Class IV | Four years |
Board Policy for Evaluating Experience to Qualify for Level of Operator Licenses
Examinations
Examinations are standardized exams produced by ABC, Association of Boards of Certification. These exams are nationally based, multiple choice, validated and reviewed. The Board welcomes operators to become subject matter experts and participate in the exam development process.
Exams may be taken in the traditional paper-based process or the recently accepted computer-based process. Exams may be taken in the sequential process (pass lower levels and work one’s way up) or may be taken in a direct process (take one exam at the level one wishes licensure).
Frequently Asked Questions about the computer-based process
Paper exams will be given twice in 2012. Click here for an application form. Old forms will not be accepted.
| Location | Examination Date | Application Postmark Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Bangor Motor Inn | March 27, 2012 | February 4, 2012 |
| Presque Isle | October 25, 2012 | September 1, 2012 |
Please Note Day and Date Change. Exam will be Tuesday March 27, 2012 at the Bangor Motor Inn.
There will be no June paper exams.
Study Materials
The DWP maintains a lending library with study materials to help persons prepare for operator exams. Materials may be signed out of the library prior to an exam and returned the day of the exam or mailed back to the DWP after the exam.
Training providers may be found here. Classes may be found in the Professional Development Calendar.
Once you have passed the exam you may apply for licensure.
Initial License or Upgraded License
Your first license is the initial license. This may be a license in one or both treatment and distribution disciplines. When you take and pass a higher level of exam you may apply for an upgraded license.
Click here to open the Application for Licensure
Reciprocity
Water operators certified or licensed by other state or provincial certification authorities most often are recognized. Each person’s education and experience is evaluated. Licenses or certificates from states with similar examination requirements may not require re-examination. Please use the application for licensure.
WATER IS THE DRIVING FORCE OF ALL NATURE. Leonardo da Vinci