Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become an operator?
Requirements for Operator certification depend on the type of water system. The Ontario Water Wastewater Certification Office (OWWCO) handles the certification and re-certification of operators in Ontario. For more information, please visit the OWWCO website or contact them by visiting the “Contact Us” page.
Some small systems regulated under O. Reg. 170/03 require a Trained Person instead of a certified operator. For more information on trained persons, please visit the Small System Zone.
How do I get a job in the water industry?
The Walkerton Clean Water Centre does not offer job placement services. Like all careers, job prospects for water operators will vary based on location, wage expectations, skills, and market competition. If you are considering a career in the water industry, you may wish to research the current job market in your area.
What constitutes On-the-Job (OTJ) training hours?
On-the-job training criteria are outlined in the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks’ Guide to Drinking Water Operator Training Requirements. Please access the guide at the following link https://www.ontario.ca/page/training-requirements-drinking-water-operators. If you require additional clarification, please contact the Ontario Water Wastewater Certification Office at 1-877-231-2122.
How many training hours do I need for certificate renewal?
The amount of continuing education and on-the-job training required for each renewal period is based on the highest class of drinking water system you operate. Operator training requirements are outlined in the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks’ Guide to Drinking Water Operator Training Requirements. Please access the guide at the following link https://www.ontario.ca/page/training-requirements-drinking-water-operators.
I have not received my certificate
For certificates for training courses delivered by the Walkerton Clean Water Centre, log in to “my profile” anytime to view your course history and reprint a copy of your certificate. Or please email training@wcwc.ca or call the Centre directly at 1-866-515-0550.
My Operator-In-Training (OIT) certificates are expiring
Drinking water OIT certificates expire after 36 months. Within this three year period, it is expected that you will complete the requirements to upgrade to a Class 1 certificate.
If, at the expiry of your Water Treatment or Water Distribution and Supply OIT certificate(s), you know you are not able to upgrade to a Class 1, you may be eligible to request a one-time three year certificate renewal from the Ministry.
Please visit the OWWCO website or contact them at 1-877-231-2122 for further information on how to proceed with your request.
Are you interested in taking the Entry-Level Course for Drinking Water Operators as part of an Environmental Technology/Technician program at an Ontario college?
Ontario’s community colleges have responded enthusiastically to an invitation by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks to include the Entry-Level Course for Drinking Water Operators into their curriculum. Currently sixteen colleges have entered into agreements with the Ministry. Ten of the colleges currently participate in a hands-on course at the Centre as part of their training. Taking the Entry-Level Course as part of a diploma program broadens the career options for graduates. The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks brochure A Student’s Guide to Drinking Water & Wastewater Operator Certification provides in-depth information on operator certification.
I have already completed the Entry-Level Course through my college program. How do I get my certificate?
Certificates are issued at the completion of the diploma program. Students are required to request their certificate from their College.
I am a certified operator and I need to renew my certificate.
Please contact the Ontario Water Wastewater Certification Office at 1-877-231-2122 or visit the website at www.owwco.ca.
Are your training courses Director Approved?
Yes, our courses are Director Approved and the Director Approved continuing education credits (CEUs) are posted on each course description.