In order to become a water treatment specialist, you will first have to complete a high school education. It is wise to pay close attention to science courses such as chemistry and biology, but language courses will also be very important. Once you graduate from high school, you will need to obtain a bachelor's degree in chemistry or another science field pertinent to water treatment. You will also need to complete various certification exams if you want to become a water treatment specialist. The specific examinations can vary by region, so you will need to do some research to find out which ones are required in your area.
Developing an interest in the environment and how humans impact the environment is a good way to motivate yourself to become a water treatment specialist. Wastewater is an inevitable part of human inhabitation, and treatment specialists often focus on finding more efficient ways to process that wastewater. When you become a water treatment specialist, you will also be responsible for performing scientific tests on bodies of water to try to discover the source of potentially harmful chemicals. Specialists are often leaders in implementing important changes that can improve the health of an entire ecosystem.
Training in science and math will be crucial if you want to become a water treatment specialist. You will need to conduct scientific experiments and record your findings accurately in reports that will be submitted to various agencies or other entities. Communication and writing skills will also be very valuable, as you will have to communicate with others regarding the effects of various factors on waterways and ecosystems. You will need to be exceptionally organized and efficient, and you will need to be able to compile large amounts of data into brief and understandable reports.
You will also need to be trained in specific safety techniques and practices that will protect you and others from illness or injury. As a treatment specialist, you may end up working in various environments that can be hazardous to your health, so many businesses or agencies require treatment specialists to undergo safety training and certification. You may also need to obtain a specific certification just to be qualified to become a water treatment specialist; be sure to research local laws and regulations regarding this job to ensure you obtain the proper documentation. First aid and CPR training may also be necessary.
