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Water Operator Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Veolia

Warehouse Associate

Providence, RI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

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 ...

Veolia

Warehouse Associate

Providence, RI · On-site

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 ...

Enviri Corporation

Warehouse Associate

Providence, RI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

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 ...

Veolia

Environmental Technician I

Providence, RI

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 ...

Enviri Corporation

Warehouse Associate

Providence, RI · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

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 ...

Enviri Corporation

Warehouse Associate

Providence, RI

$17 - $20/hr

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 ...

Veolia

Maintenance Chief

Newport, RI

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 ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Maintenance Chief

Newport, RI · On-site

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 ...

Veolia

Environmental Technician II

Providence, RI · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

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 ...

Veolia

Collections System Technician

Cranston, RI · On-site

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 ...

Veolia

Environmental Technician II

Providence, RI · On-site

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 ...

Veolia

Project Leader

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Rhode Island

Water Operator information

See Rhode Island salary details

$12

$25

$39

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for water 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 is a water operator?

As a water treatment plant operator, also called a water operator, you measure water quality and quantity using computerized equipment. Your job duties include the maintenance and repair of water treatment equipment and water delivery systems. As a water and wastewater treatment plant operator, you collaborate with engineers, chemists, and lab assistants to test water samples to inform your decisions about water treatment systems. Your primary responsibility is to make sure that water is safe for people to drink and use in their daily lives.

What are some common challenges faced by water operators in maintaining treatment plant operations?

Water Operators often encounter challenges such as fluctuating water quality, unexpected equipment malfunctions, and strict regulatory compliance requirements. These professionals must quickly troubleshoot mechanical or chemical issues, adapt to changes in source water conditions, and ensure all processes meet local and federal safety standards. Effective communication with other team members and departments is also essential, as operators frequently coordinate with maintenance staff, engineers, and regulatory agencies to resolve issues and maintain smooth plant operations.

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

To thrive as a Water Operator, you need a solid understanding of water treatment processes, basic chemistry, mechanical aptitude, and typically a state-issued water operator certification. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and regulatory compliance software is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set exceptional operators apart in this field. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure safe, reliable water quality and compliance with public health standards.

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

AspectWater OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
CertificationsWater operator licenses, state-specific certificationsWater treatment operator licenses, state certifications
Work EnvironmentWater distribution systems, pipelines, reservoirsWater treatment facilities, filtration systems
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, water districts, private water companiesMunicipal water plants, treatment facilities

Both roles require similar certifications and work in water-related environments, often within municipal or private water systems. The main difference is that Water Operators focus more on maintaining water distribution systems, while Water Treatment Plant Operators specialize in operating and maintaining water treatment processes. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path in the water industry.

How much do water operators make?

Water operators in Michigan typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the water system. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages and additional benefits.

Is being a water operator worth it?

A water operator manages and maintains water treatment and distribution systems, ensuring safe and clean water supply. The job offers stable employment, requires technical skills and certifications, and often involves working outdoors or in water treatment facilities. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in public health and infrastructure maintenance.

What does it take to be a water operator?

A water operator is responsible for operating and maintaining water treatment and distribution systems. Requirements typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant certifications such as a state-issued water treatment operator license, and knowledge of water quality standards, safety procedures, and equipment operation. On-the-job training and technical skills are also important for ensuring safe and efficient water service.
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Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,174 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Warehouse Associate

Veolia

Providence, RI • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Environmental Technician I
VEOLIA:
  • 275 Allens Ave, Providence, RI 02905, USA.
  • Full-time.
Pay Rate: $17-$20.hour DOE.
2nd Shift, 12:00pm-8:30pm.

Company Description:
Veolia has acquired Clean Earth. As Clean Earth completes its integration into Veolia, recruiting and hiring for this role is being managed in partnership with the Clean Earth talent acquisition team.
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:
Environmental Technicians are the backbone of our company. You’ll be joining a team of dedicated professionals with the opportunity to learn environmental regulations and how we remove hazardous materials from the waste stream.  Once trained in this role, you will consolidate, treat, store, transport and/or dispose of hazardous waste in accordance with environmentally responsible and compliant practices, policies, and procedures. This is a physically active job where you’ll be lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds throughout the day, operating a forklift and other mobile equipment to move containers to and from storage and treatment areas and to load and unload trailers. You will complete required documentation accurately, timely and legibly in accordance with applicable regulations and customer policies, practices and procedures.
Qualifications:
Basic Requirements:
  • Ability to repeatedly lift and carry 50 pounds throughout the workday.
  • Ability to stand and walk over uneven surfaces for extended periods.
  • Visual acuity to read labels and documentation; depth perception to safely drive forklifts.
  • Ability to hear vehicle warning chimes and alarms.
  • Ability to work outdoors in all climate conditions and indoors in non-climate-controlled conditions.
  • Willingness and ability to wear company-issued personal protection equipment including safety glasses, hard had, steel toed shoes, gloves, Tyvek coveralls, and respirator (gentlemen – this means no beards).


Preferred Qualifications:
  • High School diploma or General Educational Development (GED) required.
  • Experience in warehouse or manufacturing environment.
  • Basic computer skills to complete web-based training.
  • Ability to understand and respond to written and verbal English.
  • Ability to predictably and regularly attend work during scheduled hours. Must be willing and able to occasionally work nights, weekends and variable schedule(s) as necessary.
  • Ability to deal politely and professionally with customers and coworkers.

Additional Information:
Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package includes paid time off policies, as well as health, dental, vision, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, paid volunteering and more. In addition, commencing no later than January 1, 2027, benefits package will include participation in an employer sponsored 401(k) plan, to save for retirement. Pay and benefits for employees represented by a union are outlined in their collective bargaining agreement.

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.