The best certifications depend partly on career goals, but several consistently increase value and pay.
If you want the bigger picture first, start with the wastewater operator career path guide to see how certifications fit into long-term advancement.
1. Higher Wastewater Licenses
This should usually be the priority.
Higher-grade licenses:
- increase salary potential
- open supervisory opportunities
- improve job mobility
These remain the foundation.
If you are still preparing, review how to pass the wastewater operator exam first try and how to study for the Grade 1 wastewater exam.
2. Collections Certifications
Understanding collections systems makes operators more versatile.
Plants value operators who understand:
- lift stations
- sewer systems
- infiltration/inflow
- line maintenance
3. Water Treatment Certifications
Dual-certified operators become highly valuable.
Many municipalities prefer operators who can assist across departments.
4. SCADA / Instrumentation Training
Modern plants rely heavily on automation.
Operators who understand:
- controls
- instrumentation
- process monitoring
often become difficult to replace.
5. Safety Certifications
Useful examples:
- OSHA
- confined space
- HAZWOPER
- forklift training
Safety knowledge improves employability and leadership potential.
6. Laboratory Certifications
Operators who understand lab processes gain stronger process-control skills.
Lab knowledge improves troubleshooting ability significantly.
To turn certifications into better pay and promotions, also read wastewater operator salary increase tips and how to get promoted at a wastewater plant.