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Water Operator Jobs in Smithfield, RI (NOW HIRING)

Veolia Environnement SA

Operator

Riverside, RI · On-site

$21.25 - $29.50/hr

The Operator maintains water/wastewater treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in water/wastewater treatment facilities to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements.

Veolia

Operator

Riverside, RI

$21.25 - $29.50/hr

The Operator maintains water/wastewater treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in water/wastewater treatment facilities to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements.

Veolia Environnement SA

Operator

Riverside, RI · On-site

$21.25 - $29.50/hr

The Operator maintains water/wastewater treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in water/wastewater treatment facilities to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements.

Veolia Environnement SA

Operator - Wastewater

Riverside, RI · On-site

$21.25 - $29.50/hr

The Operator maintains water/wastewater treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in water/wastewater treatment facilities to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements.

Veolia

Operator - Wastewater

Riverside, RI

$21.25 - $29.50/hr

The Operator maintains water/wastewater treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in water/wastewater treatment facilities to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements.

Veolia Environnement SA

Operator - Wastewater

Riverside, RI · On-site

$21.25 - $29.50/hr

The Operator maintains water/wastewater treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in water/wastewater treatment facilities to purify water to meet permit and operational requirements.

Veolia Environnement SA

Operator

Brockton, MA · On-site

$29.39 - $38.89/hr

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

Operator I

Taunton, MA · On-site

$30.17 - $36.23/hr

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

Operator I

Taunton, MA

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

Operator I

Taunton, MA · On-site

$30.17 - $36.23/hr

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 ...

ENNOVI Interplex

Wastewater Operator

Attleboro, MA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.75/hr

Wastewater Operator (NIGHT shift) About Company At ENNOVI we harness the power of two megatrends ... Operate and properly maintain reverse osmosis water treatment equipment. * Responsible for pH and ...

Veolia

Driver - Class A CDL

West Bridgewater, MA · 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 ...

Sarpi Thinktech

Driver - Class A CDL

West Bridgewater, MA · On-site

$24.50 - $27.50/hr

Driver - Class A CDL 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 1-20

All JobsWater Operator JobsWater Operator Jobs in Smithfield, RI

Water Operator information

See Smithfield, RI salary details

$12

$25

$39

How much do water operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for water operator in Smithfield, RI is $25.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $29.09 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.
More about Water Operator jobs
Water Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Operator job openings in Smithfield, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,177 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Industrial Waste Water Operator

Millbury, MA • On-site

Ground Water Treatment
See more jobs at Ground Water Treatmentexternal

$32 - $36/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

 

Ground / Water Treatment & Technology (GWTT) is looking to add an Industrial Licensed Operator MA 2I to our growing Operations & Maintenance Services Team. The right individual will be dependable, initiative-taking and a collaborator with excellent communications skills.

All candidates should have a minimum of 2+ years of relevant Process and/or Water Treatment experience, demonstrated good critical thinking skills, along with effective communication skills. A Mass Grade 2I or higher Industrial Treatment License or the reciprocal equivalent is required. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated ability to perform the work responsibilities summarized below.


Duties include, but are not limited to: 

  • Responsible for personal safety record; know, understand, and comply with all project/site safety requirements. 
  • Adjust the dosing of process chemicals such as Acids, Bases, Oxidizers, polymers, and coagulants using mixers, pumps, and metering devices.
  • Responsible for performance and compliance of the treatment systems with respect to permit equivalencies. Records operational data, meter, and gauge readings on specified forms.
  • Interacts with client organizations, including engineering departments, site managers, and consultants.
  • Lead troubleshooting and emergency response efforts. 
  • Operates, inspects, adjusts, and monitors process equipment, meters, gauges, and controls to detect problems/malfunctions and maintain proper level of equipment operation and system performance on air, water, groundwater, wastewater, industrial wastewater, and leachate systems.
  • Collects process and groundwater samples for testing or may oversee sample collection process; performs low-flow groundwater sampling; performs sample collection and process control testing and field testing of water, soil and air samples as required.
  • Performs preventive maintenance using hand tools, power tools and/or precision equipment in accordance with O&M guidelines and requirements.
  • Responds to alarms for emergencies at various facilities/systems (next business day). 
  • Shop fabrication and field mobilization and demobilization of system equipment. 

Requirements: 

  • Current MA Industrial Wastewater Operator's License, MA 2I or equivalent required.
  • Minimum 2 years' experience in industrial wastewater operations having successfully demonstrated the ability to succeed utilizing this knowledge base. 
  • Understanding of major mechanical equipment and able to perform preventive and corrective maintenance on those components.
  • Good working knowledge of Physical and Chemical treatment processes, additional experience with biological systems is preferred.
  • OSHA 40-hour Hazwoper certificate/8-hour refresher & 10-hr OSHA Construction certification preferred. 
  • Must have a flexible work schedule, and reliable transportation to visit multiple sites within New England territory. 
The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds


Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record and must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screen. 

Dependent on current project demands, travel may be required.  Candidates must possess a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record and be able to pass a drug test. OSHA 10-hour, OSHA 40-hour training with current 8 Hour Refresher Training is preferred, but will be provided to the right candidates.

We offer competitive compensation based on experience and skills, opportunities for advancement, excellent benefits including medical and dental plans, paid holidays and vacations, and a 401k program. 

Ground/Water Treatment & Technology, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.

Visit our website at www.gwttllc.com for more information.

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