California Sewer Collection System Certification (CWEA Grade 1-4): Program Overview
A Voluntary Certification
Unlike Water Treatment, Distribution, and Wastewater Treatment, sewer collection system certification in California is voluntary — it is not mandated by the State Water Resources Control Board. Instead it is administered by the California Water Environment Association (CWEA), using a four-level ladder: Grade 1 (entry level) through Grade 4 (management level, requiring significant combined experience and education). Many California cities and special districts nonetheless require or strongly incentivize CWEA certification for hiring and promotion, since it demonstrates verified competency in maintaining public sewer infrastructure.
What Collection Operators Maintain
Collection system operators are responsible for gravity sewer mains, manholes, lift/pump