Environmental services
Water / wastewater treatment operator
Monitor treatment systems, test water and maintain safe operating processes.
BLS · May 2025
EDUCATION & ENTRY
Technical training + operator certification
Compare drinking-water and wastewater certification rules. Examinations and qualifying experience vary by operator level and system.
The state’s typical entry education classification is “Postsecondary training (non-degree).” This describes the occupation broadly; employers, programs and licensing bodies set specific requirements.
CONNECT THE CAREER TO A PLACE TO LEARN
Oregon training options
These are related routes to investigate. Confirm the full preparation, current admissions and eligibility for your intended role with the provider.
Umpqua Community College
Water Quality Technology
Study water and wastewater operations with local practical-training opportunities. The provider describes preparation for level-one operator examinations; certification remains a separate process.
Ask: Which preparation, timetable and complete budget apply to my Water Quality Technology plan?
Program page reviewed September 15, 2026
Take this question to a counselor.
Would I enjoy laboratory checks, mechanical systems and responsibility for public infrastructure?
Before choosing a program, ask for prerequisites, the complete timeline, class and placement schedules, and a full cost estimate including supplies, exams, travel and living expenses.
Build a working cost estimate →Understand the numbers.
The median is the midpoint of estimated wages for Oregon workers in this occupation. The hourly median is $33.52. These figures describe workers across experience levels; they are not starting pay or the earnings of graduates from the programs below.
Oregon projects employment moving from 1,215 jobs in 2024 to 1,209 in 2034. The projected 1,086 openings over the decade include growth and replacement needs as workers leave an occupation. Dividing that total by ten gives the rounded annual average shown above. These are projections, not today’s vacancies.
How to read wage information →