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Ro Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chief Water Plant Operator

FL · On-site

$65K - $101K/yr

... RO Water Treatment Plant operations. The Chief Operator plans, organizes, and directs the work of ... skilled and semi-skilled staff in the operation and maintenance of R.O. water treatment equipment ...

Water Plant Operator

FL · On-site

$44K - $68K/yr

High school diploma or equivalent; one (1) year of RO plant experience. Special Qualifications ... Minimum "C" Water Treatment Operators License as issued by FDEP is required. * Position requires ...

Plant Operator I

San Marcos, TX · On-site

$3.9K - $4.0K/mo

Knowledge of manual and automated operation/maintenance of HVAC systems, VFDs, RO filters, water ... The Plant Operator I is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the absorption and ...

Power Plant Operator I & II Job Category: University Staff Employment Type: Regular Job Profile ... RO systems, and the testing of boiler water and water softeners. The operation and use of safety ...

Water Plant Operator Trainee

FL · On-site

$36K - $57K/yr

JOB SUMMARY Under the direct supervision of the Chief Operator and/or Water Plant Director, this entry-level position assists in the operation and basic maintenance of the City's Reverse Osmosis (RO ...

Pass the Plant Operator Selection System (POSS) test * Candidates for an RO license shall have one of the following qualifications: * Six months as a qualified non-licensed operator at the Nuclear ...

RO supervisor, lead person, maintenance personnel, RO crew, RO operator and QC External Contacts ... Food plant, high noise levels, subject to cold, hot and humid conditions, wet floors, forklift ...

RO supervisor, lead person, maintenance personnel, RO crew, RO operator and QC External Contacts ... Food plant, high noise levels, subject to cold, hot and humid conditions, wet floors, forklift ...

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Ro Plant Operator information

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How much do ro plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for ro plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a water treatment plant operator a hard job?

A water treatment plant operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling equipment to ensure safe water quality, which requires technical skills, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can involve shift work, troubleshooting, and operating complex machinery, making it physically and mentally demanding at times.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Ro Plant Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an RO Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, chemistry, and mechanical systems, usually supported by a diploma or technical certification in water treatment or a related field. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality monitoring instruments, and routine maintenance tools is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators manage operations and coordinate with team members. These skills are vital to maintain water quality standards, ensure efficient plant performance, and respond quickly to any operational issues.

How much do water treatment operators make?

Water treatment operators, including those who operate reverse osmosis (RO) plants, typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and location, with some operators earning over $60,000 in higher-paying regions or with advanced skills.

What are some common challenges faced by an RO Plant Operator and how are they handled?

RO Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as membrane fouling, pressure fluctuations, or changes in feed water quality, which can affect system performance. Addressing these issues typically involves regular equipment maintenance, monitoring water parameters closely, and making prompt adjustments as necessary. Operators also work as part of a team to troubleshoot complex problems and may collaborate with engineers or maintenance staff for repairs. Staying vigilant and proactive is key to maintaining smooth plant operations and meeting regulatory standards.

What is an RO Plant Operator job?

An RO (Reverse Osmosis) Plant Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining reverse osmosis water treatment systems. Their duties include checking system performance, conducting routine maintenance, ensuring water quality standards are met, and troubleshooting issues. They also handle chemical dosing, filter replacements, and documentation of operational data. The operator plays a crucial role in ensuring clean and safe water production for industrial, municipal, or commercial use.

Where do water treatment operators make the most money?

Water treatment operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater industrial activity, such as urban areas or states with strong environmental regulations. Salaries can also increase with experience, certifications, and working in specialized or large-scale treatment facilities.
More about Ro Plant Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Ro Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Ro Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Ro Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Ro Plant Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ro Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Grants - RO Plant Operator

Grants - RO Plant Operator

Barrick Gold Corporation

Milan, NM • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Barrick Gold rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 32 rated mining


Job description

Position Description:

Barrick is hiring a Water Treatment Plant Operator to work onsite operating, monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting an industrial water treatment plant and support systems. The ideal candidate has experience with reverse osmosis treatment system and the ability to clearly communicate when discussing water treatment plant operations to management, contractors, technicians, and regulatory personnel.

Responsibilities: 

  • Operate and monitor the water treatment plant and water collection system;

  • Operate the computer system for the collection system and treatment plant;

  • Perform maintenance and calibration of all water treatment plant   equipment;

  • Collect samples, monitor and take readings at monitoring points, wells, ponds, and other locations;

  • Calibrate monitoring equipment and other instruments;

  • Accurately perform various in-house laboratory analyses;

  • Operate small mobile equipment in support of other activities; 

  • Oversee and mentor maintenance staff in operation of water treatment plant; 

  • Comply with state & federal regulatory requirements, all health & safety guidelines and all company policies and procedures.

  • Perform other duties as assigned;

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent 

  • Working knowledge and troubleshooting ability of water treatment plant operations required

  • Level 2 or higher Reverse Osmosis Specialist certification preferred

  • Minimum of 3 years experience in water treatment plant operation, with experience in a leadership role preferable

  • Problem-solving and mechanical skills required

  • Laboratory skills and abilities are necessary

  • Working knowledge of pumps and pumping systems required

  • Working knowledge of computers and software preferred

  • Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing

Essential Functions

An employee must be able to do the following:

  • Communicate and interrelate effectively with others on a daily basis.

  • Use hand tools and other instruments such as pH meter, conductivity meter, various wrenches, and screwdrivers.

  • Stand, walk, climb, or otherwise maneuver in order to access pumps, pipelines, ponds, tanks and other hard to reach locations.

  • Walk on uneven, sloped, rock-strewn, loosely filled, piled, rutted, wet, slick, icy, and/or obstructed ground to inspect and operate various components of the water collection system and treatment plant. Walk for extended distances to monitor and inspect collection system.

  • Read, correctly calculate, and log data from meters, gauges, and/or valves according to standard operating procedures. Take water samples and water levels and log data as required.

  • Operate and efficiently use computers, calculators, and various copy machines to prepare daily reports and summaries.

  • Frequently and repeatedly bend, stoop, crouch, kneel, reach, sit, step over, climb over, and crawl over obstacles and pipelines to inspect, monitor, and/or check equipment and perform other duties.

  • Lift and carry 50 pounds occasionally and 15 pounds repetitively throughout the shift.

  • Perform duties under conditions that may be hazardous including, but not limited to, weather--temperatures ranging from below 32F to 100F, snow, rain, ice and hail; moving equipment, moving mechanical parts, hot mechanical parts, and equipment traffic; exposure to hot water; and exposure to odors, gases, chemicals, and dusts.

  • Wear protective/safety equipment as required including a dust mask, steel-toed shoes or boots, safety goggles, safety glasses, ear plugs, and hard hat.

  • Perform the essential functions of this position without posing a direct threat of harm to personnel or to site equipment or property.

  • Attend and work through scheduled work shift.

  • Work overtime and callouts, including holidays, Saturdays and Sundays. Work any shift or schedule as required.

*This list is not exhaustive and may be supplemented as necessary.

What we can Offer You  

  • A comprehensive compensation package including bonuses, benefits and stock purchase plans where applicable
  • Ability to make a difference and lasting impact
  • Work in a dynamic, collaborative, progressive, and high-performing team
  • An Opportunity to transform traditional treatment into the future of digital treatment
  • Opportunities to grow and learn with industry colleagues are endless
  • Access to a variety of career opportunities across Barrick locations
  • Barrick is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Thank you for your application, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

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