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Associate Operator Jobs in Providence, RI (NOW HIRING)

Operator

Riverside, RI

$21.25 - $29.50/hr

The Operator maintains water/wastewater treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in ... Associate's degree in a science or technical area strongly preferred. * Two to five years ...

Operator

Riverside, RI

$21.25 - $29.50/hr

The Operator maintains water/wastewater treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in ... Associate's degree in a science or technical area strongly preferred. * Two to five years ...

Minimum of 2 years of experience operating milling machines in a manufacturing or machining ... Technical certification or associate degree in machining, manufacturing, or a related field is ...

Minimum of 2 years of experience operating milling machines in a manufacturing or machining ... Technical certification or associate degree in machining, manufacturing, or a related field is ...

Minimum of 2 years of experience operating milling machines in a manufacturing or machining ... Technical certification or associate degree in machining, manufacturing, or a related field is ...

Warehouse Associate

Norton, MA · On-site

$20.50 - $22/hr

Position Purpose: Warehouse associates are an essential part of The Home Depot s distribution ... or operating hand trucks, forklifts, hoists, motorized conveyors, or other material handling ...

Warehouse Associate

Norton, MA

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Position Purpose: Warehouse associates are an essential part of The Home Depot s distribution ... or operating hand trucks, forklifts, hoists, motorized conveyors, or other material handling ...

Shipping and Receiving Associate Kelly ® is in search of? Shipping and Receiving Associates to ... Operating Procedures (SOPs) · Working knowledge of warehouse systems and logistics tools What ...

Chemical Operator

Taunton, MA · On-site

$19.75 - $22.50/hr

Overview Waters Corporation is currently looking to hire a Chemical Operator to join our Chemical ... Associates Degree or Bachelors Degree, preferably in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related ...

Chemical Operator

Taunton, MA · On-site

$19.75 - $22.50/hr

Waters Corporation is currently looking to hire a Chemical Operator to join our Chemical ... Associates Degree or Bachelors Degree, preferably in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related ...

Chemical Operator

Taunton, MA · On-site

$19.75 - $22.50/hr

Overview Waters Corporation is currently looking to hire a Chemical Operator to join our Chemical ... Associates Degree or Bachelors Degree, preferably in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related ...

Chemical Operator

Taunton, MA · On-site

$19.75 - $22.50/hr

Overview Waters Corporation is currently looking to hire a Chemical Operator to join our Chemical ... Associates Degree or Bachelors Degree, preferably in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or related ...

Wastewater Operator

Newport, RI

$21.75 - $30.25/hr

Monitor operating conditions, meters, and gauges. * Collect and test water and sewage samples ... Associate's degree in a science or technical area strongly preferred. * Two to five years of ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Operator information

See Providence, RI salary details

$11

$14

$16

How much do associate operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate operator in Providence, RI is $14.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.82 and $16.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate operator?

Associate Operators are entry-level professionals responsible for supporting the daily operations of a facility, such as a manufacturing plant, warehouse, or control room. Their duties typically include monitoring equipment, performing basic maintenance, following safety protocols, and ensuring production processes run smoothly. They often work under the supervision of more experienced operators and may assist with troubleshooting issues or reporting problems. This role is a key starting point for those looking to build a career in operations or production environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate operator?

To thrive as an Associate Operator, you need a solid understanding of production processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industry-specific machinery, safety protocols, and basic computer systems is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities help individuals excel in monitoring operations and addressing issues quickly. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining efficient production, ensuring safety, and contributing to overall operational success.

What are some typical challenges an associate operator might encounter during daily operations?

As an Associate Operator, common challenges include quickly troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, adapting to unexpected changes in production schedules, and maintaining high attention to detail during repetitive tasks. You may also need to coordinate with maintenance and quality assurance teams to ensure safety and compliance standards are met. Effective communication and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential for handling these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Associate Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectAssociate OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, production linesFactories, industrial settings, production floors
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, assembly, and production industriesWidely used in manufacturing, processing, and industrial sectors
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in operations, monitor equipment, perform basic maintenanceOperate machinery, ensure proper functioning, troubleshoot issues

Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments, with Associate Operators typically supporting machine operations and performing basic tasks, while Machine Operators focus on directly handling machinery and ensuring smooth production processes.

Which associate operator job pays the most?

The highest-paying associate operator roles are often found in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and power generation, where specialized skills and certifications like OSHA training or technical licenses are required. These positions typically offer higher wages due to the complexity and risk involved, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and company size.

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Providence, RI?

The most popular types of Operator jobs in Providence, RI are:

Infographic showing various Associate Operator job openings in Providence, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,065 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

$21.25 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Veolia in North America is the top-ranked environmental company in the United States for three consecutive years, and the country’s largest private water operator and technology provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. It offers a full spectrum of water, waste, and energy management services, including water and wastewater treatment, commercial and hazardous waste collection and disposal, energy consulting and resource recovery. Veolia helps commercial, industrial, healthcare, higher education and municipality customers throughout North America. Headquartered in Boston, Veolia has more than 10,000 employees working at more than 350 locations across North America.

Job Description

Position Purpose: 

The Operator maintains water/wastewater treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in water/wastewater treatment facilities to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Monitor operating conditions, meters, and gauges.
  • Collect and test water and sewage samples.
  • Record meter and gauge readings and operational data.
  • Operate equipment to purify and clarify water or to process or dispose of waste.
  • Clean and maintain equipment, tanks, filter beds, and other work areas.
  • Inspect all equipment on a regular basis.
  • Follow U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
  • Ensure safety standards are met.

Work Environment:

  • Spends 100% of the time in operations environment. 
  • May need to work outside in inclement weather conditions and drive company vehicle to perform duties.
  • Possible Work Hazards: May be exposed to possible operations hazards including fumes, toxic and caustic chemicals, heavy machinery, high pressure, hot or cold work environment temperatures, slippery surfaces, water hazards and electrical equipment.
Qualifications

Education/Experience/Background: 

  • High School education or equivalent with the ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally (operational, process, safety and quality instructions). Must have the ability to perform basic math equations. Associate's degree in a science or technical area strongly preferred.
  • Two to five years’ experience in a related position and environment with knowledge of the methods, techniques, and practices of water/wastewater treatment.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

  • Must demonstrate proficiency in the care and use of all site specific, facility required PPE (Personal Protection Equipment), including respirators, gas detectors, confined space equipment, etc.)
  • Must consistently demonstrate the ability to operate assigned machines and equipment meeting or exceeding processing and quality targets under general supervision.
  • Must demonstrate ability to efficiently operate equipment such as pumps, engines, centrifuge, generators, valves, gates, mixers, conveyors, blowers, dryers, chemical feed, odor control, disinfection equipment, sludge processing filters, belt presses, and measuring/control devices, testing equipment and material handling equipment.
  • Must have the ability to diagnose process and mechanical problems in single or multiple unit processes, troubleshoot basic equipment and take corrective action within policy and procedure limitations.
  • Must demonstrate a working ability to use computer programs for process control.
  • Must demonstrate ability to work in a team environment and willingness to assume additional or new responsibilities readily.
  • Must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check.
  • Must be able to respond to emergency calls as needed and work extended hours to accommodate site needs.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training: 

  • Typically holds or is working toward an intermediate level water and/or wastewater treatment certificate. (Requires minimum water/wastewater license as required by regulatory agencies at the site).
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and a safe driving record.
  • Rhode Island Wastewater Grade I is required.

Physical Requirements:

  • Amount of time spent – Standing 25%, Walking 75% for as many as five miles per shift.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. 
  • The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, or crouch and enter confined spaces. 
  • May be required to use ladders or stairs.
  • The employee must lift and/or move up to 50 pounds (occasionally 60 pounds). 
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus. Requires close visual observation to detect process non-conformance and machine malfunction.

Additional Information

Benefits: Our employees are covered by comprehensive benefits packages including paid time off policies; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; retirement plans, savings accounts; tuition reimbursement; paid volunteering and more.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer! All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.