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Assistant Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Amrize

Plant Operator

Gloucester, VA · On-site

Plant Operator Driven by our purpose: Building progress for people and the planet. We are ... Keep accurate records of material usage, output, and downtime. Assist with plant cleaning ...

Stafford County

Water Plant Operator

Stafford, VA

$25.26 - $54.18/hr

... Assistant Plant Manager, or Senior Operator on duty. There are four levels to the Water Plant ... Operator positions, which offer opportunities for career growth. The hiring range for each level ...

Blue Phoenix

Plant Operator

Henrico, VA · On-site

... truck. * Assist the Lead Operator and/or Maintenance Operator with inventory. * Complete minor ... What you need to have: * 3-5 years' plant operations experience in a production environment

Stafford County, VA

Water Plant Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$25.26 - $54.18/hr

... Assistant Plant Manager, or Senior Operator on duty. There are four levels to the Water Plant ... Operator positions, which offer opportunities for career growth. The hiring range for each level ...

Amrize

Plant Operator

VA · On-site

... Assist with plant cleaning, shutdowns, and routine servicing. • Demonstrate a commitment to ... operating quarry or heavy plant equipment (e.g. crushers, screens, loaders). • Strong ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... Willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... Willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... Willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... Willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as ...

Titan America

Plant Operator - Sandston

Richmond, VA · On-site

$29 - $34/hr

The Plant Operator may open and/or close the plant and rotate to various plants as needed. This ... Willingness to work in a team environment and assist co-workers or supervisors with other duties as ...

ESI

ESI Plant Operator RNG

Suffolk, VA · On-site

Operator will work closely with Plant Manager to conduct all plant routine and non-routine ... Recommend and assist in further SOP development. · Maximize Plant efficiencies. · Other duties as ...

Virginia Tech

Plant Operator Lead

Blacksburg, VA · On-site

Facilities / Skilled Trades Reporting to a Power Plant Operator Shift Supervisor, the Plant Operator Lead will assist the supervisor in setting work priorities, assigning work, and overseeing daily ...

Luck Stone

2nd Shift - Plant Operator

Rockville, VA · On-site

$24.38 - $36.57/hr

Conduct pre-shift inspections of the plant * Assist with preventative and reactive maintenance ... Prior experience preferred operating and/or performing maintenance in a similar environment Comfort ...

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All JobsPlant Operator JobsAssistant Plant Operator JobsAssistant Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia

Assistant Plant Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$22

$39

How much do assistant plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant plant operator in Virginia is $22.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $25.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

Assistant Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Plant Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,122 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Asphalt Plant Operator

Virginia Paving Company

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position Type: Full Time (40+)
Virginia Paving Benefits:
  • Company Paid Basic Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long Term Disability Policy
  • Company Paid Vacation & Holiday Pay
  • Company Paid Parental Leave
  • Company Paid Maternity Leave
  • Company Paid Employee/Family Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Voluntary Medical & Vision Insurance
  • Voluntary Dental Insurance
  • Voluntary Short Term Disability
  • Voluntary Supplemental Term Life
  • Voluntary Accident, Legal, Hospital, Critical Illness Policies
  • 401(k) Plan w/Employer Match
  • Annual Company Stock Purchase Opportunities
  • Discount Partnerships: Verizon, Ford, Perkspot
  • Health and Wellness Benefits, including Monthly Gym/Fitness Incentives

General Description An Asphalt Plant Operator is responsible for start-up and operation of hot mix asphalt mixing plants. Process involves placing raw aggregate and liquid asphalt materials through the mixing drum to be stored in silos until ready for load-out on trucks for delivery to job sites.
Key Duties
  • Operate plant and load trucks
  • Assist to ensure that all safety policies are followed and implemented
  • Work with Quality Control Department to ensure a quality mix is produced
  • Assist Plant Foreman in ordering materials needed for plant operation
  • Assist Plant Foreman with stockpile management
  • Maintain all required paperwork
  • Communicate with road crews on an hourly and daily basis
  • Assist with plant maintenance
  • Operate loader when needed
  • Help maintain cleanliness of the plant site
  • Must be willing to work Nights and Weekends
  • Must be able to read, comprehend manuals and directives
  • Able to adjust to heights
  • Must be willing to help out as needed
  • Able to calculate basic math
  • Basic computer knowledge
  • Must have a positive attitude and eager to learn new tasks
  • Welding experience is a plus
  • Electrical/Electronics experience is a plus
  • Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts

Qualification Requirements
General To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each Key Duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and Experience This position typically is not an entry-level job, as it requires previous experience as an Asphalt Plant Operator.
  • A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) is preferred.
  • Must be able to understand work directions and communicate effectively with job site supervisors and fellow employees.
  • Three (3) to Five (5) years or more of industry related experience is required for this position, with an emphasis on Asphalt Plant Operations.

Physical Demands The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an Asphalt Plant Operator to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
  • Constant physical effort, including standing, is required during a regular work shift of at least eight hours per day. Employee must be able to stand for extended periods of time, and to stoop, bend, and crouch as required to perform Key Duties.
  • Ability to lift and carry, on a frequent basis, at least 50 pounds personally, and up to 150 pounds with assistance.
  • Maintain constant alertness to the multiple concurrent activities of the asphalt/plant construction site, including the activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment.
  • The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely.

Work Environment The work environment characteristics described below are representative of those that an Asphalt Plant Operator encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
  • Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Work environment periodically exposes the employees to high levels of noise, grease, and dust that is typically associated with a construction project.
  • Employee regularly works near heavy equipment and moving machinery.
  • Work may involve a variety of substances commonly found on construction sites such as form oil, grease, curing compounds, gasoline, diesel fuel and ready mixed concrete.

Demonstrates Safety 1stIt is important for members of our team to be actively involved in their own safety, while being considerate of fellow employees.
  • Assess work environment for possible hazards and makes sure training is adequate to the task.
  • Has proper personal protective equipment and tools, uses them appropriately for the given task.
  • Speaks up if seeing an unsafe act
  • Identifies and turns in near miss reports
  • Asks for help, when needed, to perform tasks safely.
  • Considers if there is a safer way to perform work and communicates.

Virginia Paving Company is a leading asphalt pavement producer and paving contractor for the state of Virginia. We are proud to have worked on many of the projects that have helped shape the footprint of Northern Virginia, the Stafford County/Fredericksburg area, and Hampton Roads, Virginia. Our teams successfully complete hundreds of paving contracts every year for projects ranging from public roadways and interstates, to commercial parking areas, to government and military facilities. In every case, we do so safely and efficiently, using quality material produced in-house at one of our seven state-of-the-art facilities.
We support a Drug-Free Workplace.
EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability are encouraged to apply.
Blythe Construction, Inc. - Hubbard Construction Company - Northeast Paving - Sunmount Paving - Virginia Paving Company, are hereby referred to as Vinci Construction USAAccessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process please contact Human Resources atBlythe Construction, Inc.: Phone: 704-375-8474Hubbard Construction Company: Phone: 407-645-5500Eurovia Atlantic Coast, LLC:Phone: 704-375-8474
Vinci Construction USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.Vinci Construction USA is committed to providing a fair and equal employment opportunity workplace. All hiring and promotional decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status that is protected by federal, state, or local law.
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