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Assistant Plant Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Graniterock

Plant Operator

Redwood City, CA · On-site

... Assist in performing daily/monthly site and equipment safety inspections. Work towards constant ... Some plant maintenance and Loader Operator experience. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS EDUCATION: Some ...

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Santa Margarita, CA

$34 - $39/hr

The Operator is expected to possess advanced troubleshooting skills, perform preventative and ... * Assist in the training and development of Laborers, sharing technical knowledge of plant systems.

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$34 - $39/hr

The Operator is expected to possess advanced troubleshooting skills, perform preventative and ... * Assist in the training and development of Laborers, sharing technical knowledge of plant systems.

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Santa Margarita, CA · On-site

$34 - $39/hr

The Operator is expected to possess advanced troubleshooting skills, perform preventative and ... * Assist in the training and development of Laborers, sharing technical knowledge of plant systems.

DTE Energy

Power Plant Operations Manager

Stockton, CA · On-site

$112K - $168K/yr

Prepares and continually evaluates the operating department's budgets and/or makes recommendations to the Assistant Plant Manager relative to optimize Operations cost effectiveness, work quality ...

DTE Energy

Power Plant Operations Manager

Stockton, CA · On-site

$112K - $168K/yr

Prepares and continually evaluates the operating department's budgets and/or makes recommendations to the Assistant Plant Manager relative to optimize Operations cost effectiveness, work quality ...

Anonymous Employer

Plant Operator

Middletown, CA

$40 - $50/hr

Power Plant Operators are responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of power ... Operators also perform maintenance, repairs, and system improvements, assist in developing standard ...

VSS Emultech

Plant Operator

Redding, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

... need of a Plant Operator for our VSS Emultech facility. Come join a team with a great company ... asphalt. * Assist in railcar steaming and unloading operations. * Basic housekeeping duties ...

California Bioenergy LLC

Biogas Plant Operator

Tulare, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... * Assist CalBio operators and external contractors during onsite maintenance activities, including media changeouts, major equipment overhauls, and vacuum removal of solids from digesters. * Monitor ...

California Bioenergy LLC

Biogas Plant Operator

Hilmar, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... * Assist CalBio operators and external contractors during onsite maintenance activities, including media changeouts, major equipment overhauls, and vacuum removal of solids from digesters. * Monitor ...

VSS Emultech

Plant Operator

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Description "OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY" We are growing and in need of a Plant Operator for our ... asphalt. * Assist in railcar steaming and unloading operations. * Basic housekeeping duties ...

VSS Emultech

Plant Operator

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

... need of a Plant Operator for our VSS Emultech facility. Come join a team with a great company ... asphalt. * Assist in railcar steaming and unloading operations. * Basic housekeeping duties ...

VSS Emultech

Plant Operator

Redding, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

"OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY" We are growing and in need of a Plant Operator for our VSS Emultech ... asphalt. * Assist in railcar steaming and unloading operations. * Basic housekeeping duties ...

VSS Emultech

Plant Operator

West Sacramento, CA

$23 - $25/hr

"OUR PEOPLEAREOUR STRATEGY" We are growing and in need of a Plant Operator for our VSS Emultech ... asphalt. * Assist in railcar steaming and unloading operations. * Basic housekeeping duties ...

VSS Emultech

Plant Operator

Redding, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Description "OUR PEOPLE ARE OUR STRATEGY" We are growing and in need of a Plant Operator for our ... asphalt. * Assist in railcar steaming and unloading operations. * Basic housekeeping duties ...

California Bioenergy LLC

Biogas Plant Operator

Hanford, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... * Assist CalBio operators and external contractors during onsite maintenance activities, including media changeouts, major equipment overhauls, and vacuum removal of solids from digesters. * Monitor ...

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All JobsPlant Operator JobsAssistant Plant Operator JobsAssistant Plant Operator Jobs in California

Assistant Plant Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$22

$39

How much do assistant plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant plant operator in California is $22.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant plant operator?

Assistant plant operators are entry-level professionals who support the day-to-day operations of industrial plants such as power stations, water treatment facilities, or manufacturing plants. They work under the supervision of senior operators to monitor equipment, perform routine maintenance, and ensure safety procedures are followed. Their responsibilities also include recording data, troubleshooting minor issues, and assisting in emergency situations to maintain efficient and safe plant operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant plant operator?

To thrive as an Assistant Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, basic process operations, and often a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with control systems, SCADA software, and safety protocols is typically required on the job. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of plant equipment in a team-oriented environment.

What are some common challenges assistant plant operators face during shift work, and how can they effectively manage them?

Assistant Plant Operators often work in rotating shifts, which can be physically and mentally demanding due to irregular hours and the need for constant vigilance. Managing fatigue, staying alert during night shifts, and maintaining clear communication with team members are common challenges. To effectively manage these, it's important to establish consistent sleep routines, stay hydrated, and use established handover protocols to ensure seamless operations between shifts. Building strong teamwork skills and being proactive in identifying and addressing equipment issues also contribute to success in this role.

What is the difference between Assistant Plant Operator vs Plant Operator?

AspectAssistant Plant OperatorPlant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires a high school diploma and basic technical trainingRequires additional certifications or licenses, such as a state-specific operator license
Work EnvironmentAssists in plant operations, often working under supervision in industrial or power plant settingsManages daily plant operations independently, overseeing equipment and safety protocols
ResponsibilitiesSupports plant activities, performs routine maintenance, monitors equipmentOperates and controls plant machinery, ensures safety and efficiency, troubleshooting

The Assistant Plant Operator typically supports and assists the Plant Operator in daily tasks, requiring basic certifications and working under supervision. The Plant Operator holds more responsibility, managing plant operations independently with advanced certifications. Both roles are essential in industrial and power plant environments, but the Plant Operator has a higher level of responsibility and technical expertise.

How to get hired as an assistant plant operator?

To get hired as an assistant plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant technical training or experience. Certifications such as a wastewater treatment operator license or safety training can improve job prospects, and familiarity with plant equipment and safety protocols is often required during the hiring process.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Plant Operator job openings:

Assistant Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Plant Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,911 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Plant Operator

Graniterock

Redwood City, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
Place personal safety and the safety of others before all else. Provide the highest levels of service to our internal and external customers. Primary duties include asphalt plant operator, drum & batch plant maintenance, operational support, mobile equipment operations, and railcar conveyor operator. Inspect, lubricate, and repair as required. Maintain cleanliness of the plant area, service emulsion customers, load customer trucks as required. Operate skid steer loader, forklift, and excavator as required. While operating a 988 sized front-end loader, supply the Batch Plant and Drum Plant with aggregates. Unload railcar shipments safely and timely. Perform and record pre-and post-operation inspections on mobile equipment and perform plant preventive maintenance and lubrication to achieve 100% uptime. Assist in performing daily/monthly site and equipment safety inspections. Work towards constant improvement in product quality and plant performance. Able to work without fear of heights or being in tight places. Work in alignment with Graniterock Safe Work Practices, core Purpose, Values, and Objectives, and support "One Company" principles.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION: High School Diploma or equivalent.
SKILLS: Ability to work safely in a plant environment. Must have welding/mechanical/fabrication experience. Strong communication and organizational skills. Must be self-motivated and have the ability to work well with team members and customers. Good computer skills. Must have the ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast paced, demanding environment while remaining flexible regarding tasks. Ability to frequently climb, bend, stoop and lift to 50lbs to inspect and maintain the plant.
EXPERIENCE: 4+ years welding, HDR, or fabrication. Some plant maintenance and Loader Operator experience.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
EDUCATION: Some college level computer, organizational, and mechanical engineering courses.
SKILLS: Bilingual in Spanish. Experience in performing plant inspections and developing maintenance plans from plant inspections. Basic electrical knowledge. Asphalt mix design knowledge; aggregate and binder properties knowledge; ability to trouble shoot plant problems.
EXPERIENCE: 4+ years Asphalt plant maintenance and operations experience. Loader Operator experience a plus.
OTHER COMMENTS: Must be a team player and flexible; working hours will vary between day and night shifts, including weekends; must be available to report to work on short notice. Must have valid CA Driver's License, clean driving record and be safety conscious. Work is covered under a contract with the Operating Engineers Local 3.

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