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Dewatering Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary The Refinery & Petrochemical Process Tech I is primarily responsible for operating and maintaining process equipment. This person will be required to safely operate Thermal Desorption ...

On-the-job training in hydraulic dredging and dewatering operations Key Responsibilities - CDL Equipment Operator * Operate hydraulic dredging equipment to remove residuals from wastewater ponds and ...

On-the-job training in hydraulic dredging and dewatering operations Key Responsibilities - CDL Equipment Operator * Operate hydraulic dredging equipment to remove residuals from wastewater ponds and ...

Operator

West Palm Beach, FL

$17 - $22.25/hr

Centrifuge dewatering equipment * Polymer make down systems * Reciprocating and Centrifugal Pumps ... Maintaining process parameters within set guidelines and notifying the Chief Operator of upset ...

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Dewatering Operator information

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$12

$24

$35

How much do dewatering operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for dewatering operator in the United States is $24.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Dewatering Operators?

Dewatering Operators are professionals responsible for managing the removal of water from construction sites, mining areas, or wastewater treatment facilities. They operate and maintain equipment such as pumps, centrifuges, and filtration systems to reduce water accumulation and ensure safe, stable working conditions. Dewatering Operators monitor water levels, inspect equipment, and follow environmental and safety regulations to prevent flooding and contamination. Their work is crucial in projects where excess water can delay progress or pose hazards.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Dewatering Operator on a construction site?

A Dewatering Operator is primarily responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining pumps and related equipment to remove water from work sites, trenches, or excavations. Daily tasks often include inspecting pump systems, monitoring water levels, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Operators also collaborate closely with site supervisors and other construction teams to ensure that dewatering does not interfere with ongoing work and maintains site safety. Attention to detail and strong communication skills are essential, as timely water removal can significantly impact project timelines.

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

To thrive as a Dewatering Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, basic water treatment processes, and experience with pumps and filtration equipment, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial dewatering machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications like OSHA are typically necessary. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help operators respond quickly to equipment issues and coordinate with team members. These skills are essential for maintaining operational efficiency, ensuring environmental compliance, and preventing costly downtime in industrial or construction settings.

What is the difference between Dewatering Operator vs Pump Operator?

AspectDewatering OperatorPump Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, possibly CDLOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, water treatment plants, mining sitesIndustrial plants, water treatment, construction sites
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate dewatering equipment to remove water from sites or materialsOperate various pumps to transfer liquids, maintain equipment

Both Dewatering Operators and Pump Operators work in water-related environments and require safety certifications. Dewatering Operators focus on removing water from construction or mining sites, while Pump Operators handle a broader range of pumping tasks across industries. Their roles often overlap, but Dewatering Operators specialize in dewatering systems specifically.

More about Dewatering Operator jobs
What states have the most Dewatering Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Dewatering Operator jobs include:
Industrial Dewatering Operator

Industrial Dewatering Operator

Waste Management

Martinez, CA

$26 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Waste Management rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 630 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 72 rated recycling and waste


Job description

Job Summary
The Refinery & Petrochemical Process Tech I is primarily responsible for operating and maintaining process equipment. This person will be required to safely operate Thermal Desorption Technology, Centrifuge Technology and/or chemical treatment. 
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
 

  • Ensures Health and Safety is the number one goal by following policies, processes, and acting in a safe manner at all times.
  • Assists job site construction.
  • Operates and maintains site process equipment.
  • Records and maintains daily operations and preventive maintenance logs.


III. Qualifications 
A. Education and Experience

  • Education: High School Diploma or GED (accredited).
  • Experience: No prior work experience required (in addition to education requirement).

B. Certificates, Licenses, Registrations or Other Requirements

  • TWIC Card.
  • Forklift Certification.
  • Basic Plus Safety Training.
  • OSHA Hazardous Material training a plus.
  • Pre-assignment and/or pre-hire customer-specific drug and/or alcohol testing may be required by certain customer-contract requirements. Such testing may include urinalysis, oral swab, drug hair follicle testing and/or alcohol testing.

C. Other Knowledge, Skills or Abilities Required

  • Must not be color blind.
  • Must have the ability to operate an all-terrain forklift.
  • Must be willing to work outdoors in inclement weather conditions for extended periods.
  • Computer proficiency skills to include Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Base shift schedule is Monday - Friday from 6 am - 6 pm. routinely.  Additional weekend and alternating night shifts may be required.
  • Additional call out hours for Saturdays and Sundays are expected, with longer working hours required during turnarounds or upsets. 
    Physical Requirements
    Listed below are key points regarding physical demands, physical and occupational risks, and the work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
    The expected base pay range for this position across the U.S. is $26.00 - 29.00 per hour. This range represents a good faith estimate for this position. The specific salary offered to a successful candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate's relevant experience, education, training, certifications, qualifications, and work location
    Benefits 
    At WM, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package that includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short-term disability. In addition, we offer a stock purchase plan, company matching on a 401(k), and more. Employees also receive paid vacation, holidays, and personal days. Please note that benefits may vary by site. 
     

If this sounds like the opportunity that you have been looking for, please click Apply.

ABOUT WM

WM (WM.com) is North America's leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions. Previously known as Waste Management and based in Houston, Texas, WM is driven by commitments to put people first and achieve success with integrity. The company, through its subsidiaries, provides collection, recycling and disposal services to millions of residential, commercial, industrial, medical and municipal customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. With innovative infrastructure and capabilities in recycling, organics and renewable energy, WM provides environmental solutions to and collaborates with its customers in helping them pursue their sustainability goals. WM has the largest disposal network and collection fleet in North America, is the largest recycler of postconsumer materials and is a leader in beneficial use of landfill gas, with a growing network of renewable natural gas plants and the most landfill gastoelectricity plants in North America. WM's fleet includes more than 12,000 natural gas trucks - the largest heavyduty natural gas truck fleet in the industry in North America. Healthcare Solutions provides collection and disposal services of regulated medical waste, as well as secure information destruction services, in the U.S., Canada and Western Europe. To learn more about WM and the company's sustainability progress and solutions, visit Sustainability.WM.com.

Equal Employment Opportunity

For United States:  WM is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

For Canada:  WM is committed to the principle of equal employment for all applicants and employees, without discrimination on the basis of all grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please notify us if you require accommodation.

Real ID

In order to travel by air or access federal property, federal law requires individuals have a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative. This position may require the successful candidate to travel by air for business reasons or service federal property. Accordingly, successful candidates must have, or be willing to obtain, a REAL ID or TSAapproved alternative.

What is the value of a WM job? At WM we know that the value of a WM job is more than a paycheck. It's a way to create opportunities for you and your family. This is why we are constantly working to make WM a great place to work and grow a career. We Are WM is what defines the perks of being in the WM family - from benefits, to resources and engagement activities. 

We are People First. We are Committed to Your Growth. We Are Investing in You. We are a Family. We are Stable. We are Always Working for a Sustainable Tomorrow. 

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