Water and waste plant operators monitor and run computerized control systems and related equipment to regulate water treatment and distribution, and the treatment / disposal of sewage and wastes.

In general, you usually need a high school diploma and relevant industry or college courses. You may need on-the-job training and related work experience. Most occupations require training or certification in the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), Statistical Process Control System (SPC), and other safety-related programs. To be a water and waste plant operator, you must have courses in water pollution control and be certified in water distribution or treatment. Most recent entrants have a high school diploma, and almost 3 in 10 have a trade / vocational certificate or community college diploma.