Illinois Wastewater Treatment Operator Certification
Classification Structure
Illinois EPA certifies wastewater treatment operators into four classes, with Class 1 as the highest classification and Class 4 as entry-level — the reverse numbering from some states' systems, so don't assume 1 = entry:
- Class 4 — minimum for Group 4 facilities: lagoon treatment systems.
- Class 3 — minimum for Group 3 facilities: fixed film processes, Imhoff tank systems under 1.0 MGD, and all primary treatment systems.
- Class 2 — minimum for Group 2 facilities: activated sludge systems under 1.0 MGD design average flow (DAF).
- Class 1 — minimum for Group 1 facilities: all domestic wastewater systems 1.0 MGD DAF or more (excluding lagoons and primary-only systems).
Certificates are valid for 3 years. Class 1 and 2 operators must complete 30 continuing education hours (minimum 2