ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Chief Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fairfield County, OH

Wastewater Operator 3

Carroll, OH · On-site

$29.83 - $41.02/hr

Continuous Description Under the direct supervision of the Chief Wastewater Operator, operates and maintains the municipal waste water treatment plant and sanitary collections system; performing a ...

Guadalupe-Blanco River Authority

OPERATOR II

Lockhart, TX · On-site

$41K - $68K/yr

Chief Operator, Lockhart WWTP/WTP WORK LOCATION: Lockhart WWTP, 167 Creekview, Lockhart, Texas 78644 SUMMARY This position is responsible for the daily operation and maintenance of the Lockhart ...

CFS

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Shafter, CA

$150K - $210K/yr

Chief Operating Officer (COO) Salary: $150,000-$210,000 Full Time l Onsite l Kern County Why This Opportunity Stands Out: * Executive-level visibility as the CEO's right-hand partner, with meaningful ...

IO Global

Chief Operating Officer

Longmont, CO

Job Purpose The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is the operational leader of Input Output (IO) and the CEO's peer on running the company. The role owns the business infrastructure that makes everything ...

Solar Mason

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Scranton, PA · On-site +1

The COO will be a key member of our senior management team, reporting only to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). You'll have to maintain control of diverse business operations, requiring efficiency ...

Wabtec

Assistant Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$22/hr

You will assist the Chief Operator in providing a quality test by adjusting track inspection speeds, active communication about upcoming track features, and flagging the defects as required by the ...

Wabtec

Assistant Operator

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$22/hr

You will assist the Chief Operator in providing a quality test by adjusting track inspection speeds, active communication about upcoming track features, and flagging the defects as required by the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsChief Operator Jobs

Chief Operator information

See salary details

$41.5K

$151.2K

$269.5K

How much do chief operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 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 jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

The role of Chief Operator may decline in the future due to automation and technological advancements, especially in industries relying heavily on manual oversight and operational control. Tasks such as routine monitoring and basic decision-making are increasingly automated through AI and machine learning tools, reducing the need for some traditional operational roles. However, leadership and strategic responsibilities will still require human oversight and expertise.

What are Chief Operators?

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 does a chief operator do?

A chief operator oversees the daily operations of a facility or system, ensuring processes run efficiently and safely. They often coordinate staff, monitor equipment, and implement procedures, requiring strong leadership and technical skills. Certifications or experience in operations management are typically necessary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Operator, and why are they important?

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 is a typical COO salary?

A Chief Operating Officer (COO) salary varies widely depending on the industry, company size, and location, but it generally ranges from $100,000 to over $300,000 annually. In large corporations, COOs often earn higher compensation, including bonuses and stock options, reflecting their senior management role and operational responsibilities.

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.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Chief Operators in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, or utilities can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, leadership responsibilities, and specialized skills. High-level executive roles like CEOs or CFOs also often reach this compensation level, but they are not typically classified as Chief Operators. These roles usually require advanced education, certifications, and significant industry experience.
More about Chief Operator jobs
What states have the most Chief Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Chief Operator jobs include:
Chief Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,203 per year, or $72.7 per hour.

Rail Flaw Detection Vehicle Assistant Operator

Succession Planning for Railroads Investing in the Next Generation LLC

Dallas, TX • Remote

$21 - $24/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

The Assistant Operator, “On the Road”, position which requires extended travel including several months at a time without the possibility to go home and do make every effort to get our teams home whenever possible at a reasonable interval. Operators are considered to be a very important position to hold as he is responsible for the safe operation on rail and on road as well as the preventive, actual and post maintenance or repairs of the RFD vehicle. Operators work very closely and as a Team with the Chief Operator both responsible to minimize downtime and deliver the RFD service according to schedule. Operators represents the company image as much as any other Team members. We expect the team to act professionally and care for the image when servicing customers. Operator is also responsible for any identified safety events or obstacles at all time along with the Chief Operator. Operators attitude, behavior and communication skills must be to the highest standard to create an environment of trust and respect.
Responsibilities
• Operator reports directly to the Field Manager. In his absence, will report directly to other Field Manager in place or Manager of UT RFD Services as a last resort. The Operator will follow Chief Operator guidance while in operation.
• Operator will assist Chief Operator in marking the rail defects according to set standards;
• Will remain well versed with a professional attitude towards colleagues, customers and general public reflecting a positive image for the company;
• Shall ensure that all railroad and highway safety as well as operating procedures are maintained and applied to the best of his capacity;
• Shall be accountable, professional, drive safety and quality as the number one priority;
• Shall be open to changes in the workplace and apply directives according to set standards established;
• Adhere and execute instructions in reference books and customer playbooks;
• Shall partner with Chief Operator to maintain a high standard of maintenance, including cleanliness and 5S on trucks as much interior as exterior;
• Produce all necessary paperwork including but not limited to, e-log reports, maintenance reports, trip reports, fuel reports, etc.
• Shall perform Pre and Post-trip maintenance every working day, to include carriage, hyrail and truck. Regularly grease, lube, tighten bolts, replace worn parts under the supervision and directives of the Chief Operator;
• Will ensure validity of any IFTA Sticker registration and insurance and reports to Field manager as directed,
• Is the overall responsible of the vehicle and its maintenance;
• Ensures Logbooks, DOT papers including Timesheets are maintained;
• Ensure compliance with all DOT regulations including hours of serviced regulation.
• Will coach, train, protect and assist new employees, Operators, in the wanted work environment established;
• Maintain controlled expenses as low as possible;
• Complete weekly expense reports, timesheets, inventory and general truck condition (repairs needed current and preventive);
• Operator understand that truck is to be parked at same lodging location as the Chief Operator every night unless otherwise specified.
• Performs other job duties as assigned.
Experience
a. Experience:
• Excellent safety record
• Knowledge in computer programs, electrical and mechanical is a plus;
• Valid driver’s license Class A or B with Air Brake endorsement;
• Must continuously meet company & DOT Driving Standards
 
b. Special Education:
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with high level of attention to detail
• Minimum of a High school diploma or GED. Mechanical, electrical, troubleshooting knowledge preferred.
 
c. Computer and Other Skills:
• Microsoft Office skills, including and not limited to Excel, Word, Microsoft Teams, Concur, and more;
• Ability to manage cost & adjust where necessary;
 
d. Personal Attributes:
• Must be a Team Player and willing to do whatever it takes to make the customer happy in a safe and ethical way;
• Capable of driving quality performance;
• Ability to develop excellent customer relationships;
• High level of maturity;
• Punctuality;
• Drive safety, accountable, professional image and attitude;
• Must be self -motivated;
• Integrity;
• Adaptable and drives change;
• Able to focus on multiple tasks and perform troubleshooting tasks;
• Shall have an outgoing, patient and highly respective personality;
General Requirements
• Extended travel capability
• Punctual
• Have all safety training valid for customers and eRail Safe
• Being able to travel to customers anywhere in North America (Valid Passport)
• No Criminal Records
• Communicate in English (written & spoken, French for Eastern Canada)
Conditions
While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works near moving mechanical parts and is frequently exposed to dust, oil, grease, fumes or airborne particles. Although work is primarily done inside a testing vehicle the employee might frequently be required to be outside in any weather conditions. Must be able to lift and carry parts up to 75lbs. Willing to perform occasional mechanical tasks Must be able to negotiate varied ground conditions including uneven, unstable and steep grade conditions. Requires the use of hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools or controls. Must be capable of regularly climbing up to 10 feet. The employee is required to talk and hear. Normal correctable vision is required.
• This position a hourly position.
• Pay range is based on experience and qualifications.
• Travel expenses are reimbursed, including lodging, truck maintenance, daily operational supplies, and transportation costs.
• Comprehensive medical benefits.
• Dental benefits.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Per diem paid for eligible days spent away from home on company business.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.