1

Contract Gas Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Plant Operator - Natural Gas Treating Location: Jal, NM Schedule: 8 & 6 Overview ... Our production operation management division offers contract labor and operations services on and ...

Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Operator I Maryland | Within Our Service Territories Bishopville, MD ... The role troubleshoots plant systems, recognizes hazards and makes repairs on daily plant patrols ...

The Plant Operator is responsible for the operations and maintenance of a newly built 300 MMSCFD cryogenic natural gas processing plant in the Delaware Basin. The role involves overseeing various ...

A Plant Operator must have the ability to acquire process knowledge and understand all aspects of ... Responsible for plant log entries of gauges, dials, pressures, temperatures, gas throughput, liquid ...

A Plant Operator must have the ability to acquire process knowledge and understand all aspects of ... Responsible for plant log entries of gauges, dials, pressures, temperatures, gas throughput, liquid ...

A Plant Operator must have the ability to acquire process knowledge and understand all aspects of ... Responsible for plant log entries of gauges, dials, pressures, temperatures, gas throughput, liquid ...

Plant Operator ID: 2266 Location: Houston, TX Department: Operations More about this job ... Participates in the operation and maintenance activities of a landfill gas processing plant as ...

Look no further - Wood is currently hiring Plant Operators to join our team in beautiful Evanston ... Gas plant processing, process controls and measurement, pumps, pressure relief system instrument ...

Plant Operator LF Bioenergy Brillion, Wisconsin, United States (On-site) LF Bioenergy ("LF") is a ... LF was founded in 2021 by a management team with deep experience in the oil, gas, renewable energy ...

Look no further - Wood is currently hiring Plant Operators to join our team in beautiful Evanston ... Gas plant processing, process controls and measurement, pumps, pressure relief system instrument ...

Plant Operator LF Bioenergy Brillion, Wisconsin, United States (On-site) LF Bioenergy ("LF") is a ... LF was founded in 2021 by a management team with deep experience in the oil, gas, renewable energy ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Gas Plant Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$39

How much do contract gas plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract gas 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.

How to become a gas plant operator?

To become a gas plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical schooling in process technology or related fields. Relevant skills include understanding safety protocols, operating control systems, and maintaining equipment; certifications such as OSHA safety training or process operator licenses can also be beneficial.

What are some common challenges faced by Contract Gas Plant Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Contract Gas Plant Operators often work in dynamic environments where equipment malfunctions, changing weather, and fluctuating production rates can present daily challenges. They must be adept at troubleshooting mechanical issues quickly, maintaining strict safety protocols, and adapting to evolving operational demands. Effective communication with other operators, maintenance teams, and supervisors is essential to ensure smooth plant operations and timely resolution of any issues. Proactively participating in safety training and staying up-to-date with industry best practices can help address these challenges and promote a safe, efficient work environment.

How much do oil and gas lease operators make?

Oil and gas lease operators, including contract gas plant operators, typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the operations. They often work long hours in remote environments and may require specialized certifications or training in safety and equipment handling.

How much does a gas plant operator make?

A contract gas plant operator typically earns between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the complexity of the plant and the operator's skills with control systems and safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Gas Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Gas Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of gas processing operations, safety protocols, and equipment maintenance, often supported by a high school diploma and relevant on-the-job experience or technical certifications. Familiarity with SCADA systems, gas measurement tools, and regulatory compliance software is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure safe, efficient plant operations and prompt resolution of issues, which are vital for operational continuity and regulatory compliance.

What is the difference between Contract Gas Plant Operator vs Gas Plant Operator?

AspectContract Gas Plant OperatorGas Plant Operator
CredentialsTypically required certifications, such as safety and operational licensesSame certifications often required
Work EnvironmentOften works on a contractual basis at various sitesUsually employed full-time by a company at a specific plant
Employer & Industry UsageHired by multiple companies for temporary or project-based workEmployed directly by a company managing a gas plant

Contract Gas Plant Operators and Gas Plant Operators share similar certifications and work environments, but contract roles are typically temporary and project-based, while full-time operators work consistently for a single employer. Both roles are essential in the gas industry, with the main difference being employment type and job stability.

What is the highest paying job in oil and gas?

In the oil and gas industry, senior engineering roles such as Petroleum Engineers and Reservoir Engineers tend to be among the highest paying jobs. Additionally, specialized roles like Drilling Managers and Project Directors often earn top salaries, especially with extensive experience and advanced certifications. Contract Gas Plant Operators typically earn competitive wages but are not among the highest paying positions in the industry.

What is a Contract Gas Plant Operator?

A Contract Gas Plant Operator is a professional responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a natural gas processing plant on a contract basis. Their duties typically include monitoring equipment, controlling processes, maintaining safety standards, and ensuring the efficient and safe processing of natural gas. Contract operators may work for multiple companies or facilities, providing their expertise as needed rather than as permanent employees. They must have strong technical knowledge, adhere to industry regulations, and be able to troubleshoot operational issues promptly.
More about Contract Gas Plant Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Gas Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Contract Gas Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Gas Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Gas Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Gas Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Gas Plant Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Gas Plant Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Gas Plant Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Contract Gas Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Lead Plant Operator - Renewable Natural Gas (Cottonwood)

Lead Plant Operator - Renewable Natural Gas (Cottonwood)

OPAL Fuels Inc.

Marissa, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Opal Fuels rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About OPAL Fuels
OPAL Fuels (Nasdaq: OPAL) is a leader in the capture and conversion of biogas into low carbon intensity RNG and renewable electricity. OPAL Fuels is also a leader in the marketing and distribution of RNG to heavy duty trucking and other hard to de-carbonize industrial sectors. For additional information, and to learn more about OPAL Fuels and how it is leading the effort to capture North America's naturally occurring methane and decarbonize the economy, please visit www.opalfuels.com.
Position Summary
We are hiring for a Lead Plant Operator with experience to work at our Cottonwood RNG site, located in Marissa, IL as part of our Operations department. Cottonwood RNG is currently under construction and expected to startup in November. The Lead Plant Operator is responsible for the direction and supervision of all day-to-day activities in a Renewable Natural Gas facility. This position reports to the Area Manager and shares accountability of the day-to-day operations of the site. This position will lead the site with one other operator with the goals of maximizing production and minimizing downtime with the utmost regard to safety, cleanliness, and environmental compliance. Initial employment will involve working with the construction and commissioning team to startup the site.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Safety (reviewing LOTO; reviewing JHA's; bringing safety concerns to upper management)
  • Environmental (monthly reporting; monitors composition of LFG to include H2S treatment and media sampling; reviewing compliance procedures and ensuring compliance)
  • Coordinating maintenance tasks with management and operators
  • Scheduling operators and planning outage events
  • Working with third party vendors to ensure timely and efficient service
  • Responding to callouts and managing the callout roster
  • Covering operator shifts when necessary and callouts
  • Tuning and adjusting the plant to meet production and efficiency needs
  • Inventory Management and Preventative Maintenance program
  • This position will be also responsible for operating, adjusting, and repairing equipment required to maximize gas plant production in a safe and environmentally compliant manner.
  • Operate and monitor the blowers, gas pretreatment, chiller, CO2 removal, N2 removal, O2 removal, compression equipment.
  • Ensuring operators maintain detailed records on production data, equipment operational hours, and service schedules and equipment outages.
  • Check all operating equipment daily including flow meters, gas chromatographs, fluid levels, pressure and temperature readings, and unusual noises to correct conditions before failure occurs.
  • Perform all maintenance and repairs on the operating equipment including oil and filter changes, replacement of drive belts, hoses, valve adjustments, replacement of compressor filters, slide valves, couplings and bearings, as necessary. Participate in preventative maintenance outages and overhauls.
  • Maintain a high level of cleanliness in and around the plant. Keep equipment, plant grounds, and floors looking as presentable as possible.
  • Keep all on-site parts and supplies stocked and well organized. Maintain plant inventory.
  • Respond to call outs in a timely manner. Identify and correct the cause of the call out. If the problem cannot be corrected or diagnosed, it is the responsibility of the lead operator to contact the plant manager to get the help required to fix the situation.
  • Operate the plant with a clear focus on safety. Clean up spills immediately. Make sure all lighting systems are fully functional; no slip or trip hazards are consistently present; and no electrical or mechanical hazards go on for long periods of time without attention. Affirm that all plant visitors, mechanics, and outside contractors are following safe work practices.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications and Skills
  • 7+ years of Renewable gas production industry experience preferred.
  • Must be skilled in recordkeeping and logging.
  • General troubleshooting abilities.
  • Computer skills (Microsoft Office).
  • Must possess good mechanical skills with mechanical/basic electrical knowledge/troubleshooting experience.
  • Basic electrical knowledge is preferred.
  • Must be self-motivated and perform most tasks with little or no supervision.
  • Working knowledge of pressure, vacuum, and flow.
  • Experience with pumps, blowers, or air compressors.
  • Heavy equipment operations experience is preferred (gas turbine & gas compressor O&M).
  • Fabrication and Basic Process Knowledge
  • Must have a current and valid driver's license, without any restrictions.
Work Hours and Arrangements
  • Lead Operators are scheduled 40 -50 hrs. per week based on operational need , plant performance and available staffing.
  • Some examples of plant schedules are 5-8s, 4 -10s, 2 on and 2 off 12s
  • Lead Operators are required to occasionally work night shifts and weekends and participate in rolling callout schedules that require 24/7 availability during that 7 day period

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described are representative of those required by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Position requires physical effort such as that associated with driving a motorized vehicle, operate an ATV, using hand tools, and typing on a computer. Position requires moderate lifting (10-50 lbs.), occasional need to walk on irregular surfaces, and occasional stooping, kneeling, climbing, or crouching. Also requires the use of hands and arms to operate/examine gas meter, flow meters, hand tools, power tools, bridge and jib cranes and test/diagnostic equipment.
Job Type
Full time
Pay
The range for this role is anticipated to be $38.00 -$40.00 hourly with bonus for eligible positions. Where a specific pay range is noted, it is a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. The actual salary offered will be based on experience, skills, qualifications, market / business considerations, and geographic location.
Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short & Long Term Disability
  • 401(k) plus Matching Contributions
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Referral Bonus
  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • Ten Paid Holidays
OPAL Fuels LLC is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), age, physical or mental disability, citizenship, past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
OPAL Fuels does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters or agencies without a current signed agreement and written confirmation specifying the roles for which submissions are authorized. Any resumes submitted without an agreement and authorization will be considered the property of OPAL Fuels.

What Opal Fuels employees say

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom