NJ Water/Wastewater Operator study plan

Diagram surface-water and groundwater sources and label the three components of a source water assessment (delineation, contaminant source inventory, susceptibility analysis).

Explain the multiple-barrier concept and match each pathogen class (bacteria, viruses, protozoa) to the treatment barrier that controls it.

Sort primary and secondary drinking water contaminants by MCL, health basis, and typical source, including nitrate, arsenic, lead, disinfection byproducts, and iron/manganese.

Describe how source water quality changes (storm events, algal blooms, groundwater under the influence) drive treatment and monitoring decisions.

Define the public health response to a boil-water notice, including who is notified and what criteria allow rescission.

Sequence a conventional surface water treatment train (coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, filtration, disinfection) and state the purpose and key control parameter of each unit.

Calculate chemical feed rates in lb/day using mg/L x MGD x 8.34, then recalculate for a flow or dose change.

Interpret jar test results, filter effluent turbidity trends, and backwash triggers to justify an operational adjustment.

Apply the log-inactivation requirements for viruses and Giardia and the combined filter effluent turbidity limits to a written scenario.

Troubleshoot three common process upsets (filter breakthrough, short circuiting in settling, chlorine residual loss) and list the corrective action for each.

Sketch a distribution system layout and annotate where pressure, storage, looping, and dead ends affect chlorine residual, disinfection byproduct formation, and nitrification.

Explain a cross-connection control program: air gap, reduced-pressure zone device, double check, and the testing and recordkeeping each requires.

Compare gravity sewers, force mains, and lift stations, and describe how infiltration/inflow and sanitary sewer overflows are identified and reported.

Calculate pipe flow, velocity, storage volume, and detention time using Q = V x A and volume/flow relationships.

Outline the flushing, valve exercising, and main-repair practices that protect distribution water quality.

Classify centrifugal versus positive-displacement pumps and read a pump curve to locate the operating point against system head.

Compute pump brake horsepower, total dynamic head, and wire-to-water efficiency, and explain cavitation causes and prevention.

Build a preventive maintenance schedule covering pumps, valves, motors, and chemical feed equipment with frequencies and acceptance checks.

Apply safety requirements for confined space entry, lockout/tagout, chemical handling and storage, and excavation/trenching.

Identify the correct PPE and emergency response steps for a chlorine or other chemical release at a treatment facility.

Select the correct container, preservative, and maximum holding time for at least six routine parameters, including chlorine residual, turbidity, total coliform, nitrate, and lead/copper.

Describe proper total coliform sample collection, site rotation, dechlorination, and the repeat and replacement sample rules that follow a positive result.

Perform and record bench tests for chlorine residual (DPD), turbidity, pH, and alkalinity, and compare results against required limits.

Complete a chain-of-custody form and transfer field and lab results into a monthly operating report.

Re-solve five missed calculation items from weeks 2 through 4 to confirm retention.

Map the state and federal drinking water rule requirements to daily operational tasks, naming the monitoring frequency and reporting deadline for each.

Distinguish Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 public notice situations and state the timeframe and content required for each.

Explain operator certification, renewal, and continuing education obligations for the license grade held.

Describe security and records obligations: emergency response plan updates, vulnerability assessment, and retention periods for operational and monitoring records.

Re-check distribution-system compliance items, including cross-connection records and backflow device testing documentation.

Take one timed 100-question mixed practice exam under test conditions and record the score by domain.

Rank the six domains by missed-question rate and build a prioritized list of the ten weakest concepts.

Re-study the two lowest-scoring domains using worked examples and re-derive each formula from memory.

Redo every missed calculation problem until each is solved correctly without notes.

Write a condensed formula and conversion card for use during review.

Take a second full-length timed practice exam and score at least 80%.

Review the error log from week 7 and confirm each weak topic is now answered correctly.

Recite from memory the key limits and timeframes: filter effluent turbidity, disinfection contact time concepts, public notice tiers, coliform holding time, and report deadlines.

Confirm exam-day logistics, including identification, admission requirements, and allowed reference materials.

Complete a final rapid pass through the formula card and safety checklist.