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Chief Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

St. Joseph's/Candler

Plant Operator

Savannah, GA · On-site

$25.49/hr

Experience * 2-3 Years Maintenance - Required * working as or under the chief plant operator * License & Certification * None Required * Core Job Functions * Performs work as assigned by team leader ...

Munson Healthcare

Plant Operator III

Traverse City, MI · On-site

... Plant Operator in assignment and supervision of various maintenance and operational tasks ... Operates as the Chief when he is absent. Works in a leadership role collaboratively with the rest ...

NCSL International

$125 - $150/hr

Serves as the District's designated Chief Plant Operator (CPO) pursuant to State Water Resources Control Board requirements. Coordinates assigned activities with other District departments ...

Synagro Technologies

Plant Operator

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Serving as the eyes and ears of the Chief Operator on the plant floor, the Process Operator monitors system performance, records operating parameters, identifies abnormal or out-of-specification ...

Synagro

Plant Operator

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

Serving as the eyes and ears of the Chief Operator on the plant floor, the Process Operator monitors system performance, records operating parameters, identifies abnormal or out-of-specification ...

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Chief Plant Operator information

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How much do chief plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for chief 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 does a chief plant operator do?

A Chief Plant Operator is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a plant, such as a water treatment facility or power plant. They supervise staff, ensure equipment is functioning properly, and monitor systems to maintain safety and efficiency. The role involves scheduling maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Chief Plant Operators also handle reporting, data analysis, and may assist in budgeting and training new employees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Plant Operator, you need extensive knowledge of plant operations, process management, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a relevant technical degree or certification in water, wastewater, or industrial plant operations. Familiarity with SCADA systems, laboratory testing equipment, and maintenance management software is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are critical for ensuring safe, efficient plant operations and compliance with environmental and safety standards.

What are some common challenges chief plant operators face when overseeing plant operations?

Chief Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as managing equipment maintenance schedules to minimize downtime, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations, and addressing unexpected operational issues swiftly. They must coordinate with various teams—such as maintenance, engineering, and compliance—to keep the plant running efficiently. Adapting to new technologies and continuous process improvements are also key aspects of the role, requiring strong problem-solving and leadership skills.

What is the difference between Chief Plant Operator vs Plant Operator?

AspectChief Plant OperatorPlant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires certifications like State Water or Wastewater Operator licenses, sometimes additional supervisory certificationsRequires basic operator licenses or certifications relevant to the specific plant type
Work EnvironmentOversees entire plant operations, manages staff, ensures compliance, and handles complex systemsOperates and monitors equipment, performs routine maintenance, and reports issues
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in water treatment, power plants, and manufacturing facilitiesFound in similar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles in plant operations

The main difference between a Chief Plant Operator and a Plant Operator lies in their responsibilities and required credentials. The Chief Plant Operator manages the entire plant, supervises staff, and ensures regulatory compliance, often holding advanced certifications. In contrast, the Plant Operator focuses on operating equipment and maintaining systems under supervision. Both roles are essential in plant operations, but the Chief Plant Operator has a broader scope and higher level of responsibility.

What states have the most Chief Plant Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chief Plant Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Chief Plant Operator jobs?

For Chief Plant Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Chief Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Plant Operator

Savannah, GA • On-site

St. Joseph's/Candler
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about St. Joseph's/Candlerexternal

$25.49/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

St. Joseph's/Candler Health System rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

  • Position Summary
    • Under the general supervision of the Team Leader of Plant Operations responsible for general maintenance of all facilities and service equipment 24/7. Responsible for “on-call†dispatch in all emergency situations requiring the assistance of on-call technicians. Performs inspections, calibrations, and repairs to all mechanical systems in such a manner that insures the safe, reliable and efficient operation of hospital equipment and systems. Maintains boilers, cooling towers, chillers, well water equipment, domestic water equipment, distribution pumps, fire pumps, air compressors, etc., and associated HVAC components. Responsible for chemical tests/ treatments of appropriate water systems and documentation. Responsible for monitoring and understanding building automation systems such as HVAC controls, major equipment controls (chillers), lighting controls, etc. Responsible for utility usage monitoring, tracking and reporting. Covers 12 hours shifts on night, day and weekend rotation at any SJ/C facility assigned by the Team Leader of Plant Operations. Responsible for maintaining a stock of all critical replacement equipment and parts necessary to make quick repair on all critical systems.
  • Education
    • High School Diploma - Preferred
  • Experience
    • 2-3 Years Maintenance - Required
    • working as or under the chief plant operator
  • License & Certification
    • None Required
  • Core Job Functions
    • Performs work as assigned by team leader, keeps team leader informed of any unresolved issues. Assignments are completed per established schedule/deadlines.
    • System failure reports, repair problems are addressed to the correct supervisor or manager. Safety issues are reported immediately.
    • Maintain powerhouse, cooling tower, chemical yards, mechanical equipment, and documentation.
    • Work orders and stat calls are responded timely. Responds to emergency calls per guidelines. Malfunctions are corrected in a timely manner.
    • Equipment is inspected, in accordance with departmental policy. Materials are obtained and equipment repairs are initiated as soon as possible. Supplies are used cost-effectively and waste minimized

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