Utility Operator Certification Program
The Utility Operator Certification Program (UOCP)
Administers Water and Wastewater Operator Certifications
for all Public Water and Wastewater Utilities in the state of New Mexico.
Utility Operator Certification Act (61-33-1 NMSA 1978)
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KEY INFO for OPERATORS…
Important UOCP Announcements & Meetings
*** URGENT NOTICE ***
Effective May 8, 2020, the Utility Operator Certification Program is suspending the acceptance of Exam Applications. Due to the COVID-19 health crisis, all UOCP 2020 exam sessions have been cancelled or placed on hold.
UOCP is exploring multiple options for exam session alternatives including the possibility of offering Computer-based Exams at Testing Centers around the State.
All applications and payments received after May 8, 2020 will be returned by certified mail to the sender.
We thank you for your patience moving forward during these uncertain times and through the current obstacles of COVID-19. We value and support New Mexico’s utility operators as a part of our state’s essential workforce. The UOCP is working hard to ensure continued trainings, certifications, and exams to meet regulatory requirements.
Please visit the UOCP website regularly for IMPORTANT UPDATES!
and stay tuned for more information coming soon!
Go to the UOCP Website
COVID 19 Information for Water and Wastewater Utility Operators
- Introduction to Coronaviruses– this is a 4-page Fact sheet for water and wastewater utilities (Stantec, 2020)
Disclaimer: NMED does not endorse the author(s) or content of this document. NMED’s objective is to share information with the operator community that may help water and wastewater operators protect employees and the public. Other sources of information for the water and wastewater sector include the Water Environment Federation, World Health Organization, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and OSHA. - COVID-19 Information for Water 7 Wastewater Systems (email sent to public water systems March 13, 2020)
** NEW Operator Email Communications **
Effective 2020, the Utility Operator Certification Program (UOCP) has implemented a NEW method for delivery of automated communications to NM Operators via email. Starting March 2020, you will receive email notifications of the following information:
- Renewal notice for reminder of Payments Due OR payment and Training credits owed.
Automated Renewal packets with printable copies of your new certificate(s) and ID card will also be sent to you via email.
Note: Please also check your ‘Junk‘ email mailbox.
NOTE: Exam results will continue to be mailed. No results will be given by phone or email.
Training Resources
Regulation Updates
20.7.4.16 NMAC Code of Professional Conduct –Effective Jan 17, 2017
(See the complete Utility Operator Certification Regulation under the “Regulations” tab)
Operator Tools & Resources
Operator Lookup – Registration (For new users)
Operator Lookup – Login (For existing users)
New Mexico Water Systems – Drinking Water Watch
Replacement Certificate & ID Card
Certified Operators/Samplers/Approved RTCR Assessors Available for Contract
Domestic & Industrial Ground Water Discharge Permits
Operator FAQs
Who is an operator?
An “operator” is any person who operates a public water supply system or a public wastewater facility. According to the Utility Operator Certification Regulation (20.7.4 NMAC), “operate” means performing any activity or function or making any process control or system integrity decision regarding water quality or water quantity that has the potential to affect the proper functioning of a public water supply system or a public wastewater facility or to affect human health, public welfare or the environment. The term “operate” does not include the operation of monitoring equipment from a distantly remote location.
Who must be certified?
According to the Utility Operator Certification Regulation (20.7.4.20.A NMAC), it is unlawful to operator or allow the operation of a public water supply system or public wastewater facility unless the system or facility is operated by or under the supervision of a certified operator who meets or exceeds the appropriate level of certification required to operate the system or facility. Therefore, anyone who operates a public water supply system or a public wastewater facility must hold an active New Mexico utility operator certification of the correct type and level for the system or facility, or must be supervised by an individual who holds an active New Mexico utility operator certification of the correct type and level for the system or facility.
How do I become certified?
Individuals wanting to become certified water or wastewater utility operators in the State of New Mexico must meet the minimum certification and exam application requirements listed on the Certification & Renewal Requirements page.
Operator Regulations
Draft Amendments to the Utility Operator Certification Regulation (20.7.4 NMAC)
Current Utility Operator Certification Regulations (20.7.4 NMAC) Effective Jan 17, 2017
About the Program
The Utility Operator Certification Program (UOCP) administers certifications for Water and Wastewater Operators at all public water and wastewater utilities in New Mexico.
This includes:
development, scheduling and administration of certification examinations
processing applications for certification and renewal
tracking all certified operators continuing education courses
evaluating training courses for relevance to the Program and to water and wastewater continuing education requirements
tracking operator compliance in accordance with operator certification regulation
working with the:
Important Note from the UOCP Staff
The Utility Operator Certification Program on behalf of the State is taking all necessary precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19. In support of the Governor’s directives, the UOC staff are all working remotely through the current Public Health Emergency. Our staff will continue to provide the best assistance possible, One Operator at a Time!
| UOCP Staff Contacts | Assistance with: |
| Kendall Crowe
Program Coordinator Office hours 8:00am – 5:00pm |
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| Anita Tavasci
Management Analyst Office Hours: 8:30am – 5:00pm |
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| Nile Carver
Environmental Scientist Office hours 8:00am – 5:00pm |
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| Eric Hall
Program Manager Office hours 8:00am – 3:30pm |
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| Operator Exam Scores & Training Credit Tracking, please log into the Operator Lookup portal. NOTE: If you need assistance with your Operator Login or Password please submit your request in writing to UOCP.Certification@state.nm.us |
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