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Water Distribution Operator Jobs in Rhode Island

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.

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.

As an Army Plumber, you'll be crucial in keeping the Army operating smoothly by installing ... Maintain heating systems, basic water supply, and water distribution systems. * Maintain pipe ...

... and water distribution system and multi-product pipeline system. Requirements: * Be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident. * Possess a High School Diploma or GED. * Operators & Food (OF):85 and ...

Operating Engineer

Providence, RI

$70K - $94K/yr

... or water cooled), DX units, pumps, cooling towers, fan coil units, VAV, and air distribution ... Operator, etc.) • May be required to have certification as a Universal Technician for CFC ...

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Okonite serves a multitude of markets including Electric Utility (Distribution, Transmission, and ... Universities, Water Treatment Plants and Data Centers. With today's focus on renewable energy ...

Oversees the operation of the Boiler Room, medical waste Autoclave and electrical distribution ... Moves chemical containers associated with water and fuel treatment.Other duties as assigned.MINIMUM ...

Oversees the operation of the Boiler Room, medical waste Autoclave and electrical distribution ... Moves chemical containers associated with water and fuel treatment.Other duties as assigned.MINIMUM ...

... water operator and technology provider as well as hazardous waste and pollution treatment leader. I ... Distribution and the Yard and Storeroom. * Knowledgeable of the Health and Safety policies the ...

PP Oprtg Engineer

Providence, RI · On-site

$38.60 - $48.39/hr

Oversees the operation of the Boiler Room, medical waste Autoclave and electrical distribution ... Moves chemical containers associated with water and fuel treatment. Other duties as assigned.

... the water, energy, and communications markets throughout North America. We're a trusted and ... weight distribution * Unloading could include operating boom cranes and truck mounted forklifts

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Water Distribution Operator information

See Rhode Island salary details

$12

$25

$39

How much do water distribution operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for water distribution operator in Rhode Island is $25.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $29.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Water Distribution Operators?

Water Distribution Operators are professionals responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of clean drinking water to homes, businesses, and other facilities. They monitor water distribution systems, maintain equipment such as pipes, pumps, and valves, and test water quality to comply with health and safety regulations. These operators also respond to emergencies like leaks or contamination and keep detailed records of system performance. Their work is essential for public health and the reliable operation of municipal water systems.

What is the difference between Water Distribution Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectWater Distribution OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater Distribution Certification, State LicensingWater Treatment Certification, State Licensing
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, maintaining pipelines, valves, and metersPlant environment, operating treatment equipment
Job FocusDistributing potable water, repairing infrastructureTreating water to meet safety standards
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal water departments, utility companiesWater treatment facilities, municipal agencies

While both roles involve working with water systems, the Water Distribution Operator primarily manages the distribution network, ensuring safe water delivery, whereas the Water Treatment Plant Operator focuses on treating water to meet health standards. Certifications and work environments differ, but both are essential for maintaining safe and reliable water services.

What are some common challenges faced by Water Distribution Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Water Distribution Operators often encounter challenges such as responding to emergency repairs, maintaining water quality standards, and managing aging infrastructure. These situations require quick problem-solving, clear communication with team members, and strict adherence to safety protocols. Staying up-to-date with training and industry regulations can help operators handle these challenges efficiently, while strong teamwork ensures that issues are resolved promptly to maintain uninterrupted water service.

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

To thrive as a Water Distribution Operator, you need a solid understanding of water distribution systems, hydraulics, and basic math, typically supported by a high school diploma and state certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, water quality testing equipment, and maintenance tools is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help operators quickly identify and resolve issues while coordinating with team members. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safe, reliable delivery of potable water and compliance with regulatory standards.
What are popular job titles related to Water Distribution Operator jobs in Rhode Island? For Water Distribution Operator jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Distribution Operator jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Water Distribution Operator jobs in Rhode Island are:
Infographic showing various Water Distribution Operator job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,174 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Chief Operator

Veolia

West Warwick, RI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 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.