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Chief Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Veolia Environnement SA

Chief Operator

Wakefield, RI · On-site

The Chief Operator supervises the Water Treatment Operator, and works independently, as needed. Maintain water production and quality for public consumption and fire protection. Ensures pumping ...

Veolia

Chief Operator

West Warwick, RI · On-site

The Chief Operator supervises the Water Treatment Operator, and works independently, as needed. Maintain water production and quality for public consumption and fire protection. Ensures pumping ...

City of Beaumont

Chief Operator

Beaumont, TX · On-site

$23.24 - $37.20/hr

Responsible for Division operations in the absence of the Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent; trains operators in the proper operation of Surface Water Treatment/Groundwater Treatment plant ...

Synagro WWT, Inc.

Chief Operator

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

... to operating equipment 5. Experience in computer operation and electronic controls 6. Safe driving record: No serious tickets or accidents in last 5 years or DWI/DUI in last 10 years WORKING ...

Synagro Technologies

Chief Operator

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

... to operating equipment 5. Experience in computer operation and electronic controls 6. Safe driving record: No serious tickets or accidents in last 5 years or DWI/DUI in last 10 years WORKING ...

Synagro

Chief Operator

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

... to operating equipment 5. Experience in computer operation and electronic controls 6. Safe driving record: No serious tickets or accidents in last 5 years or DWI/DUI in last 10 years WORKING ...

Synagro

Chief Operator

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

... to operating equipment 5. Experience in computer operation and electronic controls 6. Safe driving record: No serious tickets or accidents in last 5 years or DWI/DUI in last 10 years WORKING ...

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Chief Operator information

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$41.5K

$151.2K

$269.5K

How much do chief operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief operator in the United States is $151,203.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $185,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chief operator?

Chief Operators are senior professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a plant, facility, or technical system, such as a water treatment plant, power plant, or manufacturing facility. They supervise and coordinate the activities of other operators and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Chief Operators are also involved in training staff, troubleshooting equipment issues, maintaining records, and optimizing operational efficiency. Their leadership helps to ensure smooth and safe operations, minimize downtime, and meet production or service goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief operator?

To thrive as a Chief Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of industrial operations, process optimization, and safety regulations, typically backed by relevant technical education and experience in plant operations. Familiarity with SCADA systems, DCS controls, and industry-specific certifications like OSHA or water treatment licenses is often required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills enable Chief Operators to manage teams and respond to operational challenges efficiently. These competencies are essential for maintaining smooth, compliant operations and ensuring the safety and productivity of the facility.

What are some common challenges chief operators face when overseeing daily plant operations?

Chief Operators often encounter challenges such as coordinating schedules for a diverse team, ensuring compliance with strict safety and environmental regulations, and responding promptly to equipment malfunctions or process disruptions. Balancing administrative duties with hands-on problem solving is a key part of the role. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Chief Operators frequently collaborate with engineers, maintenance staff, and upper management to maintain smooth operations and address unforeseen issues.
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Chief Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,203 per year, or $72.7 per hour.

Chief Operator

Veolia Environnement SA

Wakefield, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 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:
This position will be responsible for the day-to-day operation and repair of pumps, motors, treatment equipment, controls, and SCADA equipment. The Chief Operator supervises the Water Treatment Operator, and works independently, as needed. Maintain water production and quality for public consumption and fire protection. Ensures pumping combinations are conducted in the most economical manner. Regulates system pressure, monitors booster stations and storage facilities, and observes treatment conditions. The Chief Operator shares the responsibility of maintaining production data and chemical usage logs with the Water Treatment Operator. The Chief Operator is responsible for the collection and tabulation of monthly data, including creating and modifying Excel files and E OPS which calculate system data.
Primary Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Prepare and submit all routine compliance related documents to the State.
  • Perform maintenance, troubleshoot, and diagnose equipment malfunctions.
  • Asset management.
  • Repair, replace, and calibrate all process control equipment as necessary.
  • Routinely perform pumping facility checkouts, including entering data, replenishing chemical tanks, inspecting and maintaining pumping and treatment equipment, etc.
  • Work with Water Treatment Operator and laboratory to remain compliant with sampling program.
  • Monitor all charts, gauges and other operating equipment as needed.
  • Ensure water quality meets minimum requirements as established for plant operation, including calculating chemical feed rate required, calibrating chemical feed equipment and adjusting chemical feed rate as indicated by lab tests or Manager.
  • Maintain good housekeeping procedures at the wells and treatment buildings.
  • Perform routine housekeeping chores and special housekeeping as required.
  • Ensure that pumping combinations are accomplished in the most economical manner or as directed by the supervisor.
  • Comply with all organization safety procedures.

Qualifications
Education/Experience/Background:
  • High School Diploma/GED is required.
  • 2-5+ years of experience in Water Treatment and Plant Operations.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
  • Knowledge and experience in Production operations and maintenance including but not limited to:
    • Assisting the Manager of Operations as required.
    • Operations of all pumping facilities and their related activities.
    • Handling of chemicals and their related equipment to include maintenance of said equipment.
    • Maintenance and repair of all pumping units and their facilities.
    • Ordering and purchasing of supplies as per outlined instructions.
    • Ability to keep and maintain accurate operating and maintenance records.
    • Ability to read and draft plans or sketches.
    • Knowledge of tools, equipment and terminology used in water operations, water treatment and purification.
    • Knowledge of SCADA systems.
  • Ability to be contacted by phone and available for any and all emergencies as may arise at all times of the day or night.
  • Computer skills: Google Workspace as well as Microsoft Office - Excel/Word.
  • Knowledge of applicable health and safety regulations, practices, procedures and water quality monitoring practices.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Ability to relate and interface with management and coworkers.
  • Must be able to work on call duties as needed.
  • Ability to work overtime if necessary.
  • Ability to work a rotating after hours on call schedule.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training:
  • Drinking Water Treatment Operator Grade II or higher State Health Dept. Certification License.
  • Drinking Water Distribution Operator Grade I or ability to obtain within 1 year of employment.
  • Possession of a valid driver's license at all times.

Physical Requirements:
  • Good physical condition.

Additional Information
Benefits: Veolia's comprehensive benefits package includes paid time off policies, as well as health, dental, vision, life insurance, savings accounts, tuition reimbursement, paid volunteering and more. In addition, employees are also entitled to participate in an employer sponsored 401(k) plan, to save for retirement.
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.

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