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Assistant Plant Operator Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Plant Material Handler - Redmond

Redmond, OR ยท On-site

$17.50 - $19.25/hr

Follow instructions for operating equipment and keeping records * Adhere to all OSHA Safety ... Perform daily housekeeping duties to maintain a clean and orderly facility * Assist other Material ...

Production Operator

Umatilla, OR ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Move bundled pipe from work area, (scrap and good product) * Assist in production line start-up ... This position is in a plant environment where the employee will frequently be exposed to year round ...

Production Operator

Umatilla, OR ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Move bundled pipe from work area, (scrap and good product) * Assist in production line start-up ... This position is in a plant environment where the employee will frequently be exposed to year round ...

Forklift Operator

Hillsboro, OR ยท On-site

$18.50 - $21.75/hr

We are looking for a FORKLIFT OPERATOR to join our Hillsboro, OR plant. As a forklift operator with ... * Assist with material handling to ensure raw materials and finished goods are stored in the ...

Apply now ยป Forklift Operator (Crew D) Ontario, OR The J.R. Simplot Company is a diverse ... Will assist in training other plant personnel. * Other duties may be assigned. Relevant Experience ...

Will assist in training other plant personnel. * Other duties may be assigned. Relevant Experience ... Incumbent must obtain and maintain a valid equipment operator's license with a Lift Truck and ...

Production Operator

Clackamas, OR ยท On-site

$21 - $23/hr

The primary role of the Production Operator is to assist in producing livestock and/or aqua feed ... Learn and perform multiple roles (mixing, bagging, forklift, loading) to support plant operations.

Showing results 41-60

Assistant Plant Operator information

See Oregon salary details

$14

$23

$41

How much do assistant plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant plant operator in Oregon is $23.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.26 and $26.68 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 Oregon?

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

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

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

Rap Crusher Loader Operator - Salem and Various Locations

Knife River Northwest

Salem, OR โ€ข On-site

Other

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Operate loader to feed Portable Rap Crusher, stockpile and load trucks

  • Keep plant areas clean/free of excess material, maintain own equipment and assist with maintenance of plant as needed

  • Always work safely and take action to prevent any and all unsafe actions, processes and behaviors observed

  • Other misc. duties as directed by supervisor

Great opportunity to learn other skills like operating excavator, dozer and basic operations of a crushing plant!

Must be able to travel and stay out of town (Troutdale, Farmington, and Redmond Oregon) for periods of time, working days nights or weekends dependent on production requirements.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Experience in the safe and efficient operation of a loader

  • Fabrication/welding skills are helpful

  • Must have a positive attitude, the ability to work well with others and follow directions

  • Clean driving record required


  • Ability to pass Pre-employment Background Check and Testing

How to Apply:

To be considered for this position, candidates must complete and submit an employment application at jobs.kniferiver.com by the posting deadline noted above. If unable to complete an application online you may print and send completed application to any Knife River NW address or stop in one of our locations to complete an application. Knife River is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status or any other protected category under applicable state/federal law.
If you are an individual with a qualified disability as defined by federal, state, or local law and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application for any reason, please contact your state employment agency or you may call 541-693-5900 to speak with a human resources representative.
Subject to pre-employment drug testing and background check.

Veterans: Put Your Skills to Work with Us!

At Knife River, we are committed to helping our military transition to civilian life. We are constantly looking to add veterans to our workforce and want to make the transition as smooth as possible. There are many jobs within the military that are transferable to our Paving Laborer position:


Air Force:
Pavement and construction equipment Journeyman

Pavement and construction equipment Apprentice

Pavement and construction equipment Helper
Army:
Construction and equipment supervisor

General construction equipment operator

Rough Terrain Forklift & Loader Operator

Heavy Construction Equipment Operator

Navy:
Equipment Operator

Equipment Operator Basic

Advanced Equipment Operator

Construction man

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.