New York · Wastewater Treatment · Grade 2A
New York Grade 2 Wastewater Treatment Operator Exam
The New York Grade 2 wastewater treatment certification is designated Grade 2A and issued by NYS Department of Health (drinking water); NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (wastewater). Intermediate certification for operators running day-to-day operations at small to mid-size systems.
Applied math is a significant part of the New York Grade 2A exam.
Practicing calculations like dosage, detention time, and loading before test day is one of the most effective ways to prepare, alongside reviewing your state’s official exam content outline.
Exam facts
| Grade level | Grade 2A |
|---|---|
| Questions | 100 |
| Time limit | 150 minutes |
| Passing score | 70% |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Exam administered by | NYS DOH / DEC (in-house exams) |
Prerequisites for Grade 2A
- Grade 1 certification (in most states)
- 1–2 years of operating experience
Confirm exact requirements with NYS Department of Health (drinking water); NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (wastewater).
What's on the exam
- Preliminary and primary treatment
- Activated sludge process control
- Secondary clarification
- Nutrient removal (nitrogen, phosphorus)
- Disinfection and dechlorination
- Solids handling and biosolids
- Process control adjustments
- Applied treatment math
The math on the Wastewater Treatment exam
These calculations are commonly included in wastewater treatment operator exam preparation and may appear on your exam depending on your certification level and state. Practicing them is one of the most effective ways to prepare.
- Food-to-microorganism (F:M) ratio
- Mean cell residence time (MCRT/SRT)
- Sludge volume index (SVI)
- Hydraulic and organic loading
- Detention time
- Pounds formula (lbs/day)
Free Grade 2A practice questions
Sample questions with full explanations at this level.
Take the practice quiz →Frequently asked questions
- What is the New York Grade 2 wastewater treatment certification called?
- In New York, the Grade 2 wastewater treatment certification is designated Grade 2A, issued by NYS Department of Health (drinking water); NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (wastewater).
- How many questions are on the exam and what score do I need?
- The exam has about 100 questions with a 150-minute time limit, and you need 70% to pass. It is administered by NYS DOH / DEC (in-house exams).
- What are the prerequisites for Grade 2A in New York?
- Typical prerequisites: Grade 1 certification (in most states); 1–2 years of operating experience. Exact requirements are set by NYS Department of Health (drinking water); NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (wastewater).