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Water Testing Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

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.

Wastewater Operator

Newport, RI · On-site

$21.75 - $30.25/hr

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

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.

New

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.

New

Wastewater Operator

Newport, RI

$21.75 - $30.25/hr

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

Wastewater Operator

Newport, RI · On-site

$21.75 - $30.25/hr

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

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.

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.

Facilities Team Member

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.80 - $24.38/hr

Perform and record pool water testing and documents results and follow established standards and guidelines. * Repair and construct special equipment for clients' needs. * Disarm security system at ...

Perform and record pool water testing and documents results and follow established standards and guidelines. * Repair and construct special equipment for clients' needs. * Disarm security system at ...

Facilities Team Member

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.80 - $24.38/hr

Perform and record pool water testing and documents results and follow established standards and guidelines. * Repair and construct special equipment for clients' needs. * Disarm security system at ...

Wastewater Operator I

Cranston, RI · On-site

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Operator I operates and maintains sludge, dewatering treatment, processing, disposal and testing equipment in refinery/industrial facility to purify water to meet customer specifications. Primary ...

Completes boiler water testing * Conducts daily, weekly, and monthly preventive maintenance and service on factory equipment. * Follows instruction from manager/supervisor * Follow all Good ...

Lead the design, integration, and lifecycle management of complex in-water systems and ... Plan and execute system testing strategies, including validation and verification activities ...

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Showing results 1-20

Water Testing information

See Rhode Island salary details

$5

$28

How much do water testing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for water testing in Rhode Island is $28.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.27 and $28.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Water Testing vs Water Quality Technician?

AspectWater TestingWater Quality Technician
CertificationsWater testing certifications, lab skillsWater testing certifications, field sampling
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, testing facilitiesField sites, treatment plants
Job FocusAnalyzing water samples for contaminantsMonitoring and maintaining water quality in the field

Water Testing primarily involves analyzing water samples in labs to detect contaminants, while Water Quality Technicians perform field sampling and monitor water conditions on-site. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and daily tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position in the water industry.

What is water testing and why is it important?

Water testing is the process of analyzing water samples to assess their quality and ensure they are safe for consumption, industrial use, or environmental discharge. It involves checking for contaminants such as bacteria, chemicals, heavy metals, and other pollutants. Regular water testing helps identify potential health risks, ensures compliance with safety standards, and protects both people and the environment from harmful substances.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in water testing roles, and how are they addressed on the job?

Professionals in water testing often encounter challenges such as collecting accurate samples in the field, maintaining strict adherence to quality control standards, and keeping up with evolving environmental regulations. Addressing these challenges requires attention to detail, thorough documentation, and regular calibration of equipment. Team collaboration is also essential, as water testers frequently communicate findings with environmental scientists, engineers, and regulatory bodies to ensure water safety and compliance.

How do you become a water tester?

To become a water tester, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with training in water quality testing methods. Certification or training in environmental science, microbiology, or related fields can improve job prospects, and familiarity with testing tools and laboratory procedures is important.

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

To thrive as a Water Testing Technician, you need a background in environmental science or chemistry, attention to detail, and knowledge of laboratory protocols, often supported by relevant certifications such as Certified Water Technician or similar. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, water sampling techniques, and data analysis software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for accurately reporting and interpreting results. These skills ensure reliable water quality assessments crucial for public health, regulatory compliance, and environmental protection.

What job categories do people searching Water Testing jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Testing jobs in Rhode Island are:

What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Water Testing jobs?

Cities in Rhode Island with the most Water Testing job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Testing job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,758 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

$21.25 - $29.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 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: 

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.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Monitor operating conditions, meters, and gauges.
  • Collect and test water and sewage samples.
  • Record meter and gauge readings and operational data.
  • Operate equipment to purify and clarify water or to process or dispose of waste.
  • Clean and maintain equipment, tanks, filter beds, and other work areas.
  • Inspect all equipment on a regular basis.
  • Follow U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
  • Ensure safety standards are met.

Work Environment:

  • Spends 100% of the time in operations environment. 
  • May need to work outside in inclement weather conditions and drive company vehicle to perform duties.
  • Possible Work Hazards: May be exposed to possible operations hazards including fumes, toxic and caustic chemicals, heavy machinery, high pressure, hot or cold work environment temperatures, slippery surfaces, water hazards and electrical equipment.
Qualifications

Education/Experience/Background: 

  • High School education or equivalent with the ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally (operational, process, safety and quality instructions). Must have the ability to perform basic math equations. Associate's degree in a science or technical area strongly preferred.
  • Two to five years' experience in a related position and environment with knowledge of the methods, techniques, and practices of water/wastewater treatment.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: 

  • Must demonstrate proficiency in the care and use of all site specific, facility required PPE (Personal Protection Equipment), including respirators, gas detectors, confined space equipment, etc.)
  • Must consistently demonstrate the ability to operate assigned machines and equipment meeting or exceeding processing and quality targets under general supervision.
  • Must demonstrate ability to efficiently operate equipment such as pumps, engines, centrifuge, generators, valves, gates, mixers, conveyors, blowers, dryers, chemical feed, odor control, disinfection equipment, sludge processing filters, belt presses, and measuring/control devices, testing equipment and material handling equipment.
  • Must have the ability to diagnose process and mechanical problems in single or multiple unit processes, troubleshoot basic equipment and take corrective action within policy and procedure limitations.
  • Must demonstrate a working ability to use computer programs for process control.
  • Must demonstrate ability to work in a team environment and willingness to assume additional or new responsibilities readily.
  • Must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check.
  • Must be able to respond to emergency calls as needed and work extended hours to accommodate site needs.

Required Certification/Licenses/Training: 

  • Typically holds or is working toward an intermediate level water and/or wastewater treatment certificate. (Requires minimum water/wastewater license as required by regulatory agencies at the site).
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and a safe driving record.
  • Rhode Island Wastewater Grade I is required.

Physical Requirements:

  • Amount of time spent - Standing 25%, Walking 75% for as many as five miles per shift.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. 
  • The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, or crouch and enter confined spaces. 
  • May be required to use ladders or stairs.
  • The employee must lift and/or move up to 50 pounds (occasionally 60 pounds). 
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus. Requires close visual observation to detect process non-conformance and machine malfunction.
Additional Information

Benefits: Our employees are covered by comprehensive benefits packages including paid time off policies; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; retirement plans, savings accounts; tuition reimbursement; paid volunteering and more.

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.