Digging a New Profession: Water Well Driller

In the sphere of  jobs one can have in the construction field, being a well contractor might sound strange and a bit old fashioned in our modern times. Yet, the work of a well technician is vital in the field of construction. We all need access to clean and safe water, so being a water well driller can be a very rewarding profession

How to Become a Water Well Driller in Ontario?

Becoming a water well driller in Ontario involves a combination of formal education, practical training, and licensing. Prospective well technicians must complete a course of study approved by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, such as those offered by Fleming College, which range from 15 to 30 hours depending on the class of licence sought. Additionally, candidates typically need to have completed secondary school and either a two- to three-year apprenticeship program or equivalent work experience combined with industry courses. Licensing is mandatory for those working on well construction, and technicians must renew their licences every three years by completing continuing education requirements. The process ensures that well technicians are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and effectively manage well construction and maintenance in accordance with provincial regulations.

Water Well Drilling: Education and certification

To become a water well driller in Ontario, individuals must complete several steps to obtain the necessary licensing and qualifications. The process is regulated by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) under Regulation 903 of the Ontario Water Resources Act.

The first requirement is to complete a course of study approved by the MECP. For Class 1, 2, 3, or 4 well technician licences, applicants must successfully finish a course of at least 30 hours. Fleming College offers an approved course called "Well Constructed" that meets this requirement. For those seeking a Class 5 licence, a 15-hour approved course such as Fleming College's "Groundwater Monitoring Applications" is necessary.

After completing the required course, aspiring water well drillers must gain practical experience in the field. This typically involves working under the supervision of a licensed well technician for a period of time to develop the necessary skills and knowledge. The duration of this apprenticeship-like experience may vary, but it generally ranges from two to three years.

Once the educational and experience requirements are met, candidates must apply for their well technician licence. The application process involves submitting the appropriate forms to the MECP, along with the required documentation and fees. The application form, known as Form 1 - 1987, must be completed in full, dated, and signed.

It's important to note that well technicians must work under the authority of a licensed Well Contractor. Therefore, individuals planning to operate their own well construction business will need to obtain both a Well Contractor Licence and a Well Technician Licence.

Upon receiving the licence, well technicians must ensure they maintain it through ongoing education and renewal. The licence expires on March 31st following the year of issue and must be renewed annually. To maintain their licence, well technicians are required to complete continuing education credits (CECs). For Class 1 to 4 licences, a minimum of 21 hours of approved continuing education courses must be taken every three years. Class 5 licence holders need to complete at least 14 hours of approved courses in the same period.

The Ontario Ground Water Association (OGWA) offers annual CEC courses to assist with licence renewal requirements. These courses cover various aspects of well construction, maintenance, and industry regulations.

It's worth noting that the licensing process in Ontario is designed to ensure that well technicians are properly trained and qualified to protect groundwater resources and public health. The stringent requirements stem from past incidents, such as the Walkerton water contamination, which highlighted the importance of proper training in the drinking water industry.

Well Technician Licence

Individuals who perform well construction activities must hold a Well Technician Licence. There are different classes of Well Technician Licences depending on the type of activities performed.

Becoming a water well driller in Ontario requires dedication, education, and practical experience. By following these steps and maintaining their qualifications, individuals can pursue a career in this important field, contributing to the safe and efficient construction and maintenance of wells throughout the province.

How Much Does a Well Technician Make?

The job prospects for well technicians in Ontario are generally favorable, with good employment outlook over the next few years. Here's an overview of the job prospects and salary information: 

Job Prospects

The employment outlook for water and waste treatment plant operators, which includes well technicians, is expected to be good in Ontario for the 2023-2025 period. This positive outlook is driven by several factors:

1. Employment growth is anticipated to create a moderate number of new positions.

2. A moderate number of positions will become available due to retirements.

3. Investments in upgrading and expanding municipal water and wastewater infrastructure across Ontario are contributing to job opportunities.

4. Improvements to water infrastructure in First Nations communities in northern Ontario are also creating demand.

Salary Expectations

• Water well drillers in Canada earn an average salary of $44,850 per year or $23 per hour.

It's important to note that salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, specific location within Ontario, and the employer

1. The field employs approximately 3,450 people in Ontario.

2. The majority (67%) of water and waste treatment plant operators work in the utilities sector.

3. 84% of workers in this field work year-round, which is higher than the average across all occupations.

4. The occupation is male-dominated, with 87% of workers being men.

5. Educational requirements vary, but 40% of workers have a college certificate or diploma, and 15% have a bachelor's degree.

To succeed in this field, certification is mandatory for operators in regulated drinking water systems or wastewater facilities through the Ontario Water Wastewater Certification Office (OWWCO).Overall, the job prospects for well technicians in Ontario appear to be positive, with steady demand and opportunities for employment in various sectors related to water management and infrastructure.

What About Well Contractors?

Understanding the Role of a Well Contractor

A well contractor is responsible for the construction, maintenance, and decommissioning of water wells. This includes tasks such as drilling, installing pumps, and ensuring the structural integrity of wells. In Ontario, well contractors must be licensed to ensure they meet the standards set by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks (MECP) under Regulation 903 of the Ontario Water Resources Act (OWRA).

Licensing Requirements

Well Contractor Licence

To engage in the business of well construction, a company must obtain a Well Contractor Licence. This licence is a business licence and does not authorize the holder to personally carry out well construction activities. Instead, well construction must be performed by licensed Well Technicians under the authority of the Well Contractor Licence holder.

How to Get a Contractor Licence in Ontario?

Application Process

1. Application Form: Complete the Well Contractor Licence Application (Form 1 - 1987) available on the Government of Ontario Central Forms Site.

2. Insurance: Provide confirmation of valid insurance coverage, including details such as the name of the insured, policy number, expiry date, insurance company, and the amount of coverage.

3. Business Registration: Submit a copy of a valid Business Registration Certificate or Articles of Incorporation. For partnerships or corporations, the designated official representative must be listed on the application and the official documentation.

4. MECP Exam: Successfully complete the MECP exam. Information on scheduling the exam can be found on the MECP website.

5. Fees: Pay the applicable fees as detailed in the application guide.