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Assistant Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Alkegen

Plant Operator B

Tonawanda, NY

$21.72/hr

May assist Plant Operator A's in higher proficiency work tasks * Promote and uphold the highest level of safety standards, including identifying and addressing unsafe conditions or behaviors * Embody ...

City of Tampa Florida

WTE Plant Operator I

Tampa, FL · On-site

$32.41 - $45.97/hr

Must complete Assistant Plant Operator training within 6 months. Examination Evaluation of education and experience. Drug testing is included in all pre-employment processing. Comments Employees may ...

City of Tampa

WTE Plant Operator I

Tampa, FL

Must complete Assistant Plant Operator training within 6 months. Examination Evaluation of education and experience. Drug testing is included in all pre-employment processing. Comments Employees may ...

City of Tampa

WTE Plant Operator II

Tampa, FL · On-site

Oversees the operation of plant equipment; dispatches Assistant Plant Operators and Utility Operators for local monitoring; works with maintenance to troubleshoot problems, ascertain probable cause ...

Ormat

Plant Operator

Battle Mountain, NV · On-site

Plant Operator Position Summary The primary responsibility of a Plant Operator is to ensure that ... Perform fire equipment testing. * Assist with equipment isolation, evacuation and lockout/tagouts.

Ormat

Plant Operator

Pahoa, HI

Plant Operator Position Summary The primary responsibility of a Plant Operator is to ensure that ... Perform fire equipment testing. * Assist with equipment isolation, evacuation and lockout/tagouts.

Ormat

Plant Operator

Battle Mountain, NV

Plant Operator Position Summary The primary responsibility of a Plant Operator is to ensure that ... Perform fire equipment testing. * Assist with equipment isolation, evacuation and lockout/tagouts.

Ormat

Plant Operator

Pahoa, HI · On-site

Plant Operator Position Summary The primary responsibility of a Plant Operator is to ensure that ... Perform fire equipment testing. * Assist with equipment isolation, evacuation and lockout/tagouts.

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Plant Operator

Pahoa, HI

Perform fire equipment testing. * Assist with equipment isolation, evacuation and lockout/tagouts ... When assigned as a Plant Operator 2, 3, or 4: * Successfully complete the Plant Operator 2 ...

Boutique Recruiting

Plant Operator

Lawrenceville, VA · On-site

$49K - $54K/yr

Plant Operator This is an opportunity to build a hands-on career in the rapidly growing renewable ... Perform regular site checks and readings, including weekend inspections * Assist with facility ...

Airswift

Plant Operator

Mentone, TX · On-site

Plant Operator Location: Janus Plant site near Mentone, Texas Schedule: 7/7 rotational (days/nights ... Optimize plant operations to enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency * Assist with preventative ...

Koy Concrete

Plant Manager

Katy, TX · On-site

Supervise and ensure that assistant plant managers, batch plant operators, drivers, loader operators, and yard workers are properly trained and adhering to all company, safety, environmental ...

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Assistant Plant Operator information

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How much do assistant plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 hard is it to become an assistant plant operator?

Becoming an assistant plant operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or an apprenticeship. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and basic technical skills, while certifications in safety or equipment operation can improve job prospects; the role often involves working in a plant environment with shift schedules.

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 does a plant operations assistant do?

A plant operations assistant supports the daily functions of industrial or manufacturing plants by monitoring equipment, assisting with maintenance, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work under the supervision of plant operators and may use tools like control systems or gauges to help maintain efficient plant operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Plant Operator, and why are they important?

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 assistant plant operators?

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 is the highest salary for a plant operator?

The highest salaries for assistant plant operators can reach around $70,000 to $80,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries. Factors such as certifications, location, and shift differentials can also influence earning potential.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior project managers, certain engineering consultants, or high-level executive positions, which typically require extensive experience, certifications, or advanced skills. These roles may involve long hours, high responsibility, or working in industries like oil and gas, finance, or construction. Such high daily rates are usually associated with contract or freelance work rather than standard employment.
What cities are hiring for Assistant Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Plant Operator jobs include:
Assistant Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Plant Operator B

Alkegen

Tonawanda, NY

$21.72/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Alkegen rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Requirements

Why work for us?

Alkegen brings together two of the world's leading specialty materials companies to create one new, innovation-driven leader focused on battery technologies, filtration media, and specialty insulation and sealing materials. Through global reach and breakthrough inventions, we're delivering products that enable the world to breathe easier, live greener, and go further than ever before.

With over 60 manufacturing facilities with a global workforce of over 9,000 of the industry's most experienced talent, including insulation and filtration experts, Alkegen is uniquely positioned to help customers impact the environment in meaningful ways.

Alkegen offers a range of dynamic career opportunities with globe-spanning reach. From production operators to engineers, technicians to specialists, sales to leadership, we're always looking for top talent ready to bring their best. Come grow with us!

Job Purpose

The Plant Operator B is responsible for performing a variety of tasks related to the manufacturing of specialty fiber materials, requiring a base level of technical proficiency. Operators may be rotated among different functions based on operational needs.

Plant Operator B's will be responsible for maintaining productivity and safety standards, assisting in basic quality testing, and promoting company's safety culture through personal action and accountability of others. Plant Operator B's may also receive training in additional operational areas as opportunities arise. All Plant Operator B's will be trained and expected to perform any of the tasks listed below and may perform one or more of these functions during a shift.

The Company maintains the right at any time to rotate personnel among the Plant Operator B functions and to assign personnel to operations as required, regardless of seniority and job preference. The Company reserves the right to make modifications to this description as necessary to maintain the maximum flexibility of the position. This position is located at our Fire Tower Dr. facility in Tonawanda, NY.

What You'll Do:

  • Perform material handling in designated workstations requiring a basic operational proficiency

  • Follow written work instructions and meet established productivity standards

  • Accurately report material usage and daily productivity metrics

  • Complete safety assessments and follow all safety procedures within assigned work areas

  • Maintaining clean and safe equipment and ensure an orderly work environment

  • Evaluate materials against basic quality standards and report issues as needed

  • Assist in training new Plant Operator B team members as needed

  • Provide relief coverage for other production areas as needed

  • May assist Plant Operator A's in higher proficiency work tasks

  • Promote and uphold the highest level of safety standards, including identifying and addressing unsafe conditions or behaviors

  • Embody Alkegen's core safety principles at all times, including but not limited to, the 7 Safety Absolutes, proper PPE use, and Safe Standards of Work

  • Comply with all Federal, State, Local and Company health, safety, and environmental regulations

What You'll Need:

  • A minimum of a High school Diploma or equivalent

  • Able to work a 12-hour continuous swing shift (4 on/ 4 off, rotating days/nights)

  • Reliable transportation to and from the work location

  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. as required, stand for up to 12 hours at a time

  • Ability to safely operate walk behind powered material handling equipment

  • Physically able to bend, stoop, walk, twist, lift, stand, push and pull material

  • Ability to learn and navigate computer systems to access and input operational information

  • Prior experience in a manufacturing setting, preferred

To advance in the hiring process, qualified candidates will be asked to complete a standardized pre-employment cognitive assessment that evaluates problem-solving skills, decision-making ability, and basic comprehension and math skills. This assessment is designed to further assess your suitability for the role.

Benefits & Compensation

  • $21.72/hour per Collective Bargaining Agreement

  • On-the-job training

  • Shift differential

  • Medical, dental, and vision benefits

  • HSA (with company medical) or limited purpose FSA

  • 401(k) with company match

  • Fitness reimbursement program

  • Company provided uniforms and safety shoes

If you are interested in being part of a world class production function here at Alkegen then we would love to hear from you.

At Alkegen, we strive every day to help people - ALL PEOPLE - breathe easier, live greener and go further than ever before. We believe that diversity and inclusion is central to this mission and to our impact. Our diverse and inclusive culture drives our growth & innovation and we nurture it by actively embracing our differences and using our varied perspectives to solve the complex challenges facing our changing and diverse world.

Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, nation of origin, religion, color, gender identity and expression, age, disability, education, opinions, culture, languages spoken, veteran's status, or any other protected class.

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