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Assistant Plant Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

VSS Emultech

Plant Operator

Redding, CA

$22 - $24/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 ...

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

... 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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

City of Pasadena, CA

Power Plant Operator

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$101K - $120K/yr

... a Power Plant Operator to perform journey-level duties in the safe and efficient operation of ... IDEAL CANDIDATE The ideal candidate will perform the operation in the field, assist in the ...

City of Pasadena

Power Plant Operator

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$101K - $120K/yr

IDEAL CANDIDATE The ideal candidate will perform the operation in the field, assist in the ... This safety-focused operator demonstrates strong technical skills in monitoring plant systems ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 8, 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

VSS Emultech

Redding, CA

$22 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

"OUR PEOPLEAREOUR STRATEGY"

We are growing and in need of a Plant Operator for our VSS Emultech facility.


Come join a team with a great company culture that offers competitive wages and benefits!! We offerPaid Time Off, Medical, Dental, Vision Care Insurance. We offer a 401k program. A Pension Program, Life Insurance, AD&D and opportunities for growth and development.

An Operator isresponsible for assisting with the manufacturing, loading or unloading of chemicals, emulsified asphalt, and binder products.

Operator ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES:

  • Accountable for maintaining a positive work atmosphere, by acting and communicating in a professional manner with customers, clients, co-workers, and management.
  • Loading and unloading of chemicals, emulsified asphalt, binder trucks, tack pots, spreader trucks and asphalt.
  • Assist in railcar steaming and unloading operations.
  • Basic housekeeping duties (cleaning up litter, spilled products, office, bathroom etc.).
  • Sweeping building interiors.
  • Proper tool cleaning and storage.
  • Participation with safety meetings.
  • Working as a team.
  • Basic written recordkeeping; and
  • Adherence to all environmental, health and safety rules, policies, and procedures

Operator QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Ability to utilize a calculator for basic math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).
  • Knowledge of basic hand and power tools.
  • Ability to self-start, motivate others, work with little direction.
  • Ability to work in a dirty and adverse work conditions.
  • Ability to conduct the necessary weekend checks of the plant on a rotating basis.
  • Ability to Observes gauges, dials, and operation of machinery to ensure conformance to processing specifications.
  • Ability to acquire a license for Forklift Operation; and
  • Ability to advance to level II operator, maximum of 1 years' time
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Ability to acquire a license for Forklift Operation (OSHA); and
  • Current state automobile driver's license and a reliable vehicle, potentially for work-related travel.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION STATEMENT:

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, and consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected factor under federal, state or local law.

Employment Type: Full-Time

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