Water Apprenticeship

Semester 1

• WAT 100 - Water and Wastewater Operator Math Credits: 2
• WAT 304 - Water Treatment I Credits: 4

Semester 2

• IND 144 - Pump Overhaul and Repair Credits: 4
• WAT 300 - Water Analysis Credits: 3
• WAT 305 - Water Distribution Systems Credits: 4

Semester 3

• WAT 312 - Water Treatment II Credits: 4
• WAT 401 - Water and Wastewater Management Credits: 2

Total Credits Required to Complete this Certificate - 23

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$147.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs

Approximate total for program:$3,771*

* Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

• Produce and deliver safe drinking water to consumers, thereby protecting public health from waterborne diseases  and other health concerns.
• Operate facilities and equipment designed to clean up wastewater and maintain or improve our environment.
• Operate and maintain treatment processes and collection or distribution systems.
• Operate and monitor controls, computerized systems, and laboratory equipment.
• Collect and analyze water samples, interpret results, and adjust processes to achieve maximum performance.
• Make a difference every day.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

• A basic knowledge of the traditional sciences, including biology and chemistry.
• A good knowledge of math and algebra.
• A willingness to work indoors and outdoors.
• A desire to protect public health and the environment.
• Technical abilities and technological skills.
• Good public relations skills.
• A willingness to do a variety of tasks that contribute to water or wastewater treatment.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?

• Water and wastewater environmental technology is a high-growth industry that is very stable and challenging. There are a wide variety of career opportunities and specialties.
• Field work and other hands-on experience is very important in this field. You will want to make sure you have time in your schedule to complete an internship.
• If you are a person who is passionate about the environment, able to work with minimal supervision and reliable and accurate in your work ethic, water environmental technology may be the field for you.
• Average starting salary $28,000-$60,000 (depending on area of interest and level of education), with opportunities to make a much higher income as you advance to higher levels of state certification.

What Else Should I Consider about this Specialist Certificate?

• This certificate is a customized component for apprenticeship candidates employed by Des Moines Water Works and may serve as a model for other employers.

Nondiscrimination Policy

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in employment, hiring practices or the provision of services, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator may be contacted at 515-964-6857.  For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850. ₍₂₀₁₆₎