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A woman wears a hard hat and safety glasses while inspecting wastewater facilities.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Apprenticeship

Wastewater treatment plant operators play a key role in keeping our communities safe and healthy. Operators run equipment, control chemical and biological processes, and monitor systems that clean wastewater from homes, businesses, and factories.

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Home » Academics and Training » Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Apprenticeship
Area of Study: Agriculture

What will I learn?

As an apprentice, you’ll gain real-world experience running treatment systems, solving problems, and following important safety practices. You’ll also complete classroom training that helps you prepare for state certification exams and builds your knowledge in water science and environmental safety.

How long is the program?

Time to Complete: About 3 years
On-the-Job Training: 5,568 hours
Paid Related Instruction: 432 hours in the classroom
Additional Training Includes:

  • First aid and CPR certification
  • Confined space entry certification (in year one)
  • Four Wisconsin DNR certification exams
  • Transition to Trainer course
  • OSHA 10

What are the qualifications?

  • Education: High school diploma or GED® (submit a copy with your application)
  • Age: 18 or older (or 17 with high school diploma)
  • Tests: NWTC math and reading assessments
  • Driver’s license: Valid license (submit a copy with your application)
  • Application: Obtain apprenticeship contract from DWD-Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards

How do I get started?

Step 1: Get Hired – Find a job with an employer who can support your hands-on training.
Step 2: Get Sponsored – Your employer will contact the DWD – Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards to set up your apprenticeship contract.

Once your contract is in place, you’ll be on your way to earning and learning on the job.

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Online

Classes wherever you have an internet connection. 

  • An in-person career experience, such as an internship, practicum, or credit for prior learning, may be required.
  • Some online courses may be held at specific dates/times.
Day
Classes between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Evening
Classes between the hours of 5:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
Weekend
A combination of online classes and Saturday and/or Sunday classes.
Full-time
12 or more credits per term.
Part-time
Fewer than 12 credits per term.