Wastewater Operator

Program Description

Wastewater operators maintain and operate wastewater treatment plants, so they function effectively and safely.

You will learn how to:

• Produce high quality, clean, safe treated water for discharge to the environment or for reuse
• Prevent public health hazards from water-borne pathogens
• Manage receiving water watershed environmental quality
• Monitor wastewater treatment processes using sampling & laboratory techniques efficiently

Our program is intended for:

• Entry-level employees
• Experienced operators who:
  • Want to enhance their knowledge
  • Seek training hours toward license renewal

Water and Wastewater Licensed Operators perform a vital role in maintaining the quality of both the human population and the natural environment.

Our Water/Wastewater Treatment Program is designed to teach you the technical knowledge to competently perform in the water and wastewater utility industry.

Credentials in Detail

After completing this program, you will receive a certificate of completion, and you will be eligible to apply and test for the appropriate TCEQ licensing exam provided all other TCEQ requirements are met.

See TCEQ registration information for licensing.

Licensing Notice: Texas House Bill 1508

This program prepares you for an occupational license. However, you may not be eligible for licensing if you have a prior criminal history.

For more details, see Texas House Bill 1508 Licensing Requirements

Course List

• Wastewater Operator

Fall 2024 Class Schedule

All courses are approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and are taught on TCC Northwest Campus.

20-hour Courses: $215

Basic Wastewater Operations

• Dates: September 9–11

Water Utility Safety

• Dates: September 23–25

Wastewater Collection

• Dates: September 30–October 2

D Wastewater Exam Prep

• Dates: October 4

Water Utility Calculations

• Dates: October 7–9

Wastewater Treatment

• Dates: October 21–23

24-hour Course: $280

Wastewater Laboratory

Includes student hands-on component

• Dates: November 6–8

Ready to take your exams?

The Northwest Campus Professional Certification Testing Center offers TCEQ computer-based test (CBT) exams. For a complete list of TCEQ exams or to schedule an appointment to test, email ProfessionalTesting@tccd.edu.

Apply & Register for Classes

1. Apply to TCC
   • See Continuing Education Student: Getting Started at TCC
2. Find Upcoming Classes & Register
   • See How do I search/register for continuing education classes?

Are you a current operator?

Current operators have the option of taking individual courses that can provide in-service training or on-site training.