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Freelance Solids Control Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Freelance Solids Control Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$23

$37

How much do freelance solids control operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance solids control operator in Raleigh, NC is $23.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.94 and $27.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance solids control operator?

Freelance Solids Control Operators are independent contractors who specialize in managing and maintaining solids control equipment on drilling sites. Their primary role is to remove solid particles from drilling fluids, ensuring the fluids can be reused and the drilling operation runs efficiently. They are hired on a project or temporary basis, often traveling to various drilling locations as needed. These professionals must have expertise in handling specialized equipment and a strong understanding of drilling processes to ensure safety and compliance on site.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance solids control operator?

To thrive as a Freelance Solids Control Operator, you need a solid understanding of drilling fluid systems, mechanical aptitude, and relevant experience in oilfield operations. Familiarity with solids control equipment such as centrifuges, shakers, desanders, and knowledge of safety protocols are crucial, and certifications like H2S Alive or OSHA may be required. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working on diverse rigs and collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams. These competencies ensure efficient solids removal, promote environmental compliance, and support safe, productive drilling operations.

What are the typical challenges a freelance solids control operator faces when working on different drilling sites?

Freelance Solids Control Operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying equipment brands and site-specific procedures, as each drilling project may use different systems and technologies. They must quickly assess site conditions, understand local safety protocols, and communicate effectively with new teams to ensure efficient solids control and waste management. Additionally, freelancers need to be highly self-reliant, as they are responsible for their own scheduling, travel, and maintaining up-to-date certifications. Building strong relationships with drilling crews and staying current on industry best practices can help overcome these challenges and lead to more consistent work opportunities.

What is the difference between Freelance Solids Control Operator vs Drilling Rig Floorhand?

AspectFreelance Solids Control Operator
  • Certifications: Usually requires solids control certifications and safety training
  • Work Environment: Operates equipment on drilling sites, often outdoors
  • Employer: Hired by drilling companies or as independent contractors
  • Industry Usage: Commonly searched for in oil and gas drilling contexts

While both roles work on drilling sites, a Freelance Solids Control Operator specializes in managing solids control equipment, whereas a Drilling Rig Floorhand assists with rig operations. The operator focuses on equipment maintenance and operation, requiring specific certifications, while the floorhand performs manual labor tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles in the oil and gas industry.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Solids Control Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Freelance Solids Control Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Solids Control Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Solids Control Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Solids Control Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 13% Full Time, 83% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,814 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

WATER RECLAMATION FACILITY OPERATOR - NORTH CARY

Town of Cary

Cary, NC

$56K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description **This position is accepting applications and interviewing on a rolling basis and may close at any time. Interested individuals are encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible** Water Reclamation Facility Operator (12am to 12pm): Are you a certified wastewater operator looking to advance your career in a modern, technology-driven treatment facility, or an aspiring operator eager to earn your certification and grow in the wastewater profession. If so, we invite you to join our team at the North Cary Water Reclamation Facility, where you'll work alongside skilled professionals dedicated to protecting public health and the environment while operating advanced wastewater treatment processes.

Our 12 million gallon per day facility features state-of-the-art Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) treatment with real-time nutrient analyzers, a high-performance SCADA system, reclaimed water production, and a dedicated operators' laboratory that empowers operators to make informed process control decisions. We believe in investing in our employees by providing extensive cross-training opportunities, a structured career ladder program, excellent benefits, and the support needed to develop the skills required for long-term success. Here are just a few of the things you'll do as a Water Reclamation Facility Operator: Play a vital role in public health.

By ensuring that wastewater is properly treated and disposed of, you'll help to prevent the spread of disease and protect the health of our community. Be a leader of complex technology. You'll operate and maintain a variety of sophisticated equipment, including pumps, valves, and electrical systems.

Be a problem solver. When something goes wrong, you'll be the one to troubleshoot the problem and get things back on track. Be a team player.

You'll work closely with other operators, maintenance staff, and laboratory personnel to ensure the smooth operation of the facility. If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding career that makes a real difference, we encourage you to apply for the Water Reclamation Facility Operator position. Work is performed under the regular supervision of the Facility Operations Supervisor.

Operator schedules are non-rotating 12-hour shifts totaling 84 hours per pay period. Shift schedule is midnight to noon-- two days on, two days off, five days on, five days off..... and repeat

Water Reclamation Facility positions are part of our established career ladder program that provides for the advancement of non-supervisory staff members in eligible positions who demonstrate increasing levels of knowledge, skills, and abilities. Depending upon the level of attainment in the career ladder, an employee may have lead worker duties over other plant personnel. The minimum certification level is determined by the career ladder criteria.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $56,867 - $69,867* *Hiring range varies based on the level of direct experience and possession of certifications, and it may be higher for exceptionally qualified candidates.* This position is a "critical position" meaning you are required to report to work during adverse weather or other emergency situations, to maintain equipment, operate the facility and/or assist the Department in any capacity necessary to continue Town operations. Typical Tasks Makes regular tours of the facility, monitoring mechanical and analytical equipment such as Pumps, Generators, Motors, Nutrient Analyzers, Blowers, Digesters, UV Disinfection, Chemical Feed Equipment, and Clarifiers. Monitors operation of the plant using specialized computer equipment such as SCADA systems, controls and printers

Operates a sludge thickening facility. Operates a reclaimed water pump station. Operates a regional influent pump station.

Operates and maintains scum thickeners. Performs analytical analyses to include pH, TSS, Alkalinity, Settleability, Dissolved Oxygen, Ortho Phosphorus, Fecal Coliforms, Ammonia, Nitrates, Total Residual Chlorine, Microscopy and Percent Solids. Changes flow charts and chemical reagents.

Maintains process analyzers, performs calibration and service as prescribed. Performs biosolids wasting as prescribed by the Facility Operations Supervisor. Facilitates and monitors biosolids storage and hauling operations.

Regulates and adjusts motors, pumps, blowers, and valves to meet changing operational conditions. Monitors Chemical Feed Systems and makes adjustments as necessary. Maintains Composite Samplers.

Collects samples for laboratory tests. Monitors CCTV. Maintains records and reports.

Utilizes Office Suite software, attends meetings virtually, and communicates frequently through MS Teams and email. Assists maintenance personnel when needed and performs routine janitorial duties. Performs preventive and corrective maintenance tasks on assigned wastewater treatment equipment.

Reports maintenance problems to maintenance personnel. Performs other job-related tasks as required. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Thorough knowledge of the operating characteristics and maintenance requirements of a grade IV biological nutrient removal facility.

Thorough knowledge of electrical and electronic systems. Thorough knowledge of hydraulic, chemical and mechanical principles pertinent to wastewater treatment. Thorough knowledge of the occupational hazards of the work and of necessary safety precautions.

Ability to operate a computer relative to the operation of the plant and troubleshooting malfunctions, and ability to type and work with computers. Ability to detect flaws in the operation of mechanical equipment and to determine proper remedial measures. Ability to conduct routine laboratory tests.

Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions. Ability to read meters and charts accurately and to maintain records of shift operations. Ability to work in adverse conditions such as heat, cold, rain and unpleasant surroundings.

Ability to work 12-hour shifts over multiple days during the early morning and overnight hours. Skill in the use and care of equipment and hand tools. Ability to move about freely including climbing stairs/ladders and crawling into tight spaces.

Ability to lift moderate to heavy weights in the performance of work. Ability to hear, talk and smell. Must possess visual acuity necessary to read/write paperwork, read gauges, and make repairs.

Ability to efficiently and effectively communicate with staff and the public. Physical Requirements Work in this class is medium to heavy work and may require exposure to various environmental conditions such as heat, cold, rain, and unpleasant surroundings. An employee must have the physical agility to move about freely including climbing stairs and ladders and crawling into tight spaces.

Moderate to heavy lifting is required in performing the work. Visual acuity is necessary to perform paperwork, read gauges, and make repairs. An employee must also be able to hear, talk, and smell.

Minimum and Preferred Qualifications Highschool diploma or GED required. Requires possession of a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record. Requires NC Biological Wastewater Operator Grade I certification (preferred), or ability to become certified within 12 months of hire.

Must live within fifty (50) miles of the facility and respond to the facility within one (1) hour when fulfilling call-back/stand-by duties. Location of the North Cary Facility is 1900 Old Reedy Creek Road Cary, NC 27513 Physical Requirements Work in this class is medium to heavy work and may require exposure to various environmental conditions such as heat, cold, rain, and unpleasant surroundings. An employee must have the physical agility to move about freely including climbing stairs and ladders and crawling into tight spaces.

Moderate to heavy lifting is required in performing the work. Visual acuity is necessary to perform paperwork, read gauges, and make repairs. An employee must also be able to hear, talk, and smell.

Conditions of Employment: Requires drug testing and background check (which may include criminal history check, motor vehicle records check, education verification and credit history review) and satisfactory reference checks prior to employment. Cary ensures equal employment opportunities (EEO) are provided to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, political affiliation, marital status, veteran status, or genetic information.