Learn about the steps needed to obtain wastewater operator certification in Massachusetts.

NEIWPCC, working with Water Professionals International (formerly known as the Association of Boards of Certification) and the Massachusetts Board of Certification, offers computer-based certification exams through PSI/AMP, a national provider for state licensing exams.

Step 1: Prepare for a Wastewater Certification Exam

Prepare for a Massachusetts Municipal or Industrial Wastewater Certification Exam by viewing and/or downloading the Massachusetts Wastewater Operator Training Exam Reference (PDF) and the preparation flowchart (PDF).

The Recommended Course Guide (PDF) outlines recommended trainings for taking a wastewater operator license exam. View and register for NEIWPCC training courses here.

Exam Resources

The following resources are available from Water Professionals International (WPI).

Information for Examinees – Access FAQs, test preparation resources, and information about taking exams.

Examination Study Resources – Explore resources available to testing clients and examinees.

  • Formula/Conversion Tables – These tables are provided during the examination and should be used to solve exam calculations.
  • Study Guides – WPI works with AWWA and WEF to develop study guides to help you get ready for your certification exam.
  • Sample Exam Questions – Get a feel for the exam with sample questions.
  • Need-to-Know Criteria – Learn about the core competencies covered on the WPI standardized exams.

Step 2: Schedule and Take Exam

All computer-based exams are scheduled directly with PSI/AMP. Exams will only be administered at PSI/AMP testing centers and are by appointment only.

Instructions to schedule an exam

Step 3: Apply for your Wastewater License

Once you have obtained a passing grade on the computer-based exam, download the computer-based exam license application form (PDF) and submit it to NEIWPCC via mail with a copy of your passing exam results, copy of your driver’s license (or other ID) and license fee. NEIWPCC will then issue your new Wastewater Operator credentials.

If you did NOT pass the exam please schedule and re-take another computer-based exam at any time.

Step 4: Find a Position

After you pass the exam and get your wastewater credentials from the state, it is time to find a position! Wastewater plants post job openings on the Massachusetts Water Environment Association’s website.

Two wastewater operators at a treatment plant.

References

For questions and information related to Massachusetts certification please watch our short webinar, Becoming a Certified Wastewater Operator in Massachusetts. View the slides from this webinar. (PDF)

Other Certifications

Use this form (PDF) to apply to upgrade to a Combined Grade 7 – Massachusetts Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator. Note: The Grade 7 Upgrade Application must be mailed to the Commonwealth of Mass., as shown on the form.

Summary Statistics of Quarterly Exam Results

NEIWPCC administers the Massachusetts wastewater operator certification program on behalf of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection.