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Assistant Plant Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Smithfield Foods

Plant Controller

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$104K - $130K/yr

Compiles and analyzes operating performance reports. Prepares and analyzes unusual items on ... Participate in plant management meetings as well as core product review meetings; assist plant ...

Airliquidehr

Plant Operator -Cylinder Filler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$28/hr

R10098409 Plant Operator -Cylinder Filler (Open) Location: Chicago, IL (ASG) - Industrial spec gas ... * Assist with inventory and general housekeeping. * Collaborates on identifying solutions for ...

Airgas

Plant Operator -Cylinder Filler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

R10098409 Plant Operator -Cylinder Filler (Open) Location: Chicago, IL (ASG) - Industrial spec gas ... * Assist with inventory and general housekeeping. * Collaborates on identifying solutions for ...

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Plant Controller

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$104K - $130K/yr

Compiles and analyzes operating performance reports. Prepares and analyzes unusual items on ... Participate in plant management meetings as well as core product review meetings; assist plant ...

Smithfield Foods

Plant Controller

Saint Charles, IL

$105K - $140K/yr

Compiles and analyzes operating performance reports. Prepares and analyzes unusual items on ... items; assist in preparing materials for meetings; assist plant management in operations ...

Chicago Botanic Garden

Plant Propagator

Glencoe, IL · On-site

$26 - $30.55/hr

Plant Propagator Exemption Status: Non-exempt Department: Plant Production Reports to: Manager ... Growers, Assistant Growers, Seasonal Staff, Interns, and Volunteers Year-Round, Full-time Year ...

WinCup

Plant Controller

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $120K/yr

Work with Plant Operating staff to understand and improve processes & workflow including, raw materials processing, inventory management, quality assurance, shipping, and customer service. * Assist ...

WinCup

Plant Controller

West Chicago, IL

$115K - $120K/yr

... Plant Operating staff to understand and improve processes amp; workflow including, raw materials processing, inventory management, quality assurance, shipping, and customer service. * Assist in ...

Accurate Personnel LLC

Boiler Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50/hr

BOILER OPERATOR IN CHICAGO, IL Accurate Personnel is hiring immediately for a Coiler Operator to ... * Assist plant maintenance when required * Maintain proper chemical levels for boiler systems and ...

Kraft Heinz Company

Pilot Plant Technician

Glenview, IL · On-site

$56K - $71K/yr

Perform pilot plant duties in compliance with established policies, safety standards, GMP ... Equipment Operated: Fork trucks, power tools, lift assist equipment, production operating equipment ...

Kraft Heinz

Pilot Plant Technician

Glenview, IL · On-site

Perform pilot plant duties in compliance with established policies, safety standards, GMP ... Equipment Operated: Fork trucks,power tools,lift assist equipment,productionoperatingequipmentand ...

Roquette Frères

Pilot Plant Supervisor

Geneva, IL · On-site

$82K - $95K/yr

Train staff on safe operating procedures and emergency protocols. Team Leadership & Training ... Supporting engineers and scientists with the information needed for analysis. * Assist in technical ...

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All JobsPlant Operator JobsAssistant Plant Operator JobsAssistant Plant Operator Jobs in Chicago, IL

Assistant Plant Operator information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$23

$40

How much do assistant plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant plant operator in Chicago, IL is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $26.01 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Assistant Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Plant Operator job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,961 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Water Plant Operator (Union-AFSCME)

City of Evanston

Evanston, IL • On-site

$41.06 - $49.78/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Public Works/Water Plant Operator
Date Posted:
1/25/2024
Location:
Water Plant
Date Available:
TBD
Closing Date:
Open until FilledSalary: : $41.065 - $49.776/hour*
*Starting salary is dependent upon qualifications, but in most cases is no higher than the midpoint for range.
NATURE OF WORK:
This is skilled and technical work operating the water treatment plant and pumping equipment. Work involves processing water to produce EPA quality standard water by operating and monitoring pumps and filters, regulating chemical dosages, testing samples, monitoring pressures and levels in the distribution system, taking readings, recording data, inspecting equipment, and trouble shooting and assessing water processing operations. Employees work rotating shifts, changing weekly. Employees may be assigned tasks of a similar or higher level classification to gain experience and training in preparation for advancement. Safety equipment such as hardhat, safety glasses, reflective vest, gloves, steel-toed shoes, SCBA, respirator and other protective equipment as required is worn.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF WORK (Specific assignment will include some or all of the following):
  • Monitors plant performance through SCADA system, control panels and analog computer; controls flow rates, and levels and chemical dosage; monitors filtration equipment.
  • Monitors distribution system through SCADA system, control panels and analog computer; controls flow rates and levels in the distribution system; monitors pump station equipment.
  • Operates air compressors, internal combustion engines, electric motors, centrifugal pumps, and high voltage control panels to maintain proper water levels of storage tanks and covered storage reservoirs' puts on-line steam boilers and generators.
  • Maintains required records of flow rates, levels and chlorine residuals; chemical set points and consumption rates, variables and lab test results; determines chemical dosages, consumption and inventory.
  • Conducts lab tests on water samples; performs turbidity, residual chlorine, alkalinity, hardness, bacteriological and odor tests; adjusts chemical dosages accordingly.
  • Utilizes computer control to conduct periodic washing of filters; examines performance and troubleshoots when necessary.
  • Performs inspections on all installations for safety and security; reports malfunctions to supervisor; may assist in the maintenance and/or repair of equipment.
  • Responsible for answering the after-hours Water/Sewer phone line and initiates appropriate actions to resolve concern.
  • Responds to emergencies such as fires and chlorine leakage by following the Emergency Contingency Plan; coordinates the call-out of emergency crews and utility location requests.
  • Performs general office duties such as answering phones, accepting deliveries, assisting customers and vendors.
  • May assist with receiving and off-loading chemical deliveries, transferring them to day tanks.
  • May operate as a relief operator and assist in the maintenance and repair of the treatment plant.
  • Assists with filling and draining of settling basins for cleaning and maintenance.
  • Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS OF WORK:
  • Must possess a high school diploma or GED
  • Must possess one year of general water utility work experience or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following knowledge, abilities and skills:
  • Must be able to obtain an Illinois Public Water Supply Operator's Class "C" certification within twenty-four (24) months of hire
  • Must be able to obtain a Class "A" certification within forty-eight (48) months of hire and maintain it as a condition of employment..
  • Must pass an annual respiratory surveillance examination.
  • Must remain appropriately shaven in order to safely use a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
  • Must obtain National Incident Management System (NIMS) ICS 100, 200, 700, & 800 Certification within18 months of hire.
  • Knowledge of the rules, regulations, principles, practices and methods related to water plant operation.
  • Knowledge of water quality standards for water plant operation.
  • Knowledge of safety standards and precautions connected with water plant operations.
  • Knowledge of the functions and servicing requirements of water division equipment and switchgear.
  • Knowledge of emergency procedures during partial or complete power failures.
  • Knowledge of laboratory policies, procedures and practices necessary for testing water in compliance with IEPA and IDPH regulations.
  • Knowledge of computer hardware and software applications as it relates to water treatment.
  • Ability to read, and perform basic addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
  • Ability to write and complete required documentation, readings, and reports in a clear, concise manner.
  • Ability to operate computerized process controller, computers, water pumps, chlorine titrator, generators, remote booster pumps, internal combustion engines, turbidimeter, ph meter, alkalinity/hardness analyzer; bacterial count microscope, pumps, circuit breakers, electric valves, flow valves, air respirators, vacuum pumps, air compressors, boilers, two-way radios and other necessary equipment associated with water plant operation.
  • Ability to determine chemical feed rates due to changes in the characteristics of raw water.
  • Ability to determine proper pumpage of raw water as indicated by demand.
  • Ability to respond to electrical power failures and equipment failures; determine emergency equipment usage and appropriate steps to be taken.
  • Ability to determine the proper water levels to maintain in underground and overhead reservoirs.
  • Ability to operate manual and automatic valves.
  • Ability to operate emergency generators.
  • Ability to troubleshoot, assess problems, and determine course of actions.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisor, co-workers, other employees and the public.
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints, electrical schematics and piping diagrams.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF WORK:
  • Ability to detect small, distant objects; detect odors; bend, crawl, lift, and climb around machinery, distinguish colors, operate power tools.
  • Ability to hear, see and converse about machinery problems.
  • Ability to manually operate large valves.
  • Frequent exposure to chemicals, loud noise levels, dangerous equipment, humidity and odors.
  • Ability to climb ladders and other equipment throughout the plant.

SUPERVISION:
Work is performed under the direction of a supervisor. The employee uses judgment in regulating water processing operations by changing pumpage, feed ranges and chemicals depending on system demand and incoming water quality. Work assignments are given in the form of work orders or verbal instructions, with the employee responsible for completing the work according to City work rules and safety regulations. Work is reviewed through ongoing observation, written and verbal communications, meetings and feedback from the supervisor and from other department employees. Guidance is provided through rules and regulations, policies and procedures, Unified Work Rules, Union Contract, Personnel Rules and OSHA. Additional guidance is provided through the Illinois EPA, federal and state water regulations and standards, and health quality standards. Work is evaluated at least annually for the safe and skilled operation of equipment, quality of tasks, adherence to work rules, and performance in accordance with classification standard. Employees may assist in the training of new operators.
PUBLIC CONTACT:
The employee has regular contact with other City employees to exchange information, make pump changes, and assist in emergency crew operations. The employee also has contact with the general public regarding problems, information or complaints.
SELECTION METHOD TYPE OF ELIGIBILITY LIST LIFE OF ELIGIBILITY LIST
Structured Oral Interview Category Group Two Years
Qualifications Assessment
Chosen candidates will be subject to a qualifying pre-employment medical examination and drug/alcohol screen.
The City of Evanston is committed to making all public meetings accessible to persons with disabilities. Any citizen needing mobility or communications access assistance should contact the Human Resources Office at 847-448-8204 (voice) or 847-866-5935 (TTY).

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