New Mexico requires a state-level water treatment operator license. The licensing authority is State Dept of Environmental Quality. The median salary is $48,612 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
New Mexico requires a water treatment operator to hold a state license. Operate and maintain water treatment plants to ensure safe drinking water supply. Licensing is administered by the State Dept of Environmental Quality.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | State-approved training + operator-in-training period |
| Experience Details | State-approved training + operator-in-training period |
New Mexico requires passing the New Mexico Water Treatment Operator Certification Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $50.
| Exam Name | New Mexico Water Treatment Operator Certification Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | Water Treatment Operator Certification Exam |
| Application Fee | $50 |
Getting licensed as a water treatment operator in New Mexico takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $50 and renewal fees of $50 every 2 years. Continuing education of 20 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $50 |
| License Renewal | $50 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 20 hours |
Water Treatment Operators in New Mexico earn a median salary of $48,612, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in New Mexico |
| National average | $53,420 |
Yes — New Mexico requires a state-level water treatment operator license. Operate and maintain water treatment plants to ensure safe drinking water supply.
The required exam is the New Mexico Water Treatment Operator Certification Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $50.
The median annual salary for water treatment operators in New Mexico is $48,612. The national median is $53,420.
New Mexico requires 20 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.