ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Contract Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pae

Central Plant Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

The Central Plant Operator serves as the primary caretaker of the facility's central energy ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

Pinellas County Schools

Plant operator

Largo, FL · On-site

$15/hr

Noninstructional/Support - Position - Plant Operator/Custodian Job Number 3700270083 Start Date 06 ... Contract Type Full-Time Reports to PRINCIPAL Contact Person's Name Dustin Adams Contact Person ...

Amentum

Central Plant Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

The Central Plant Operator serves as the primary caretaker of the facility's central energy ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

CNX

Plant Operator

Washington, PA · On-site

Supervision of contract employees and ensuring materials are available is required. This position is responsible for the safety of themselves and others under their guidance. The Plant Operator is ...

Sasol

Plant Operator

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Under direction of Shift Supervisor or Plant Operator I and II, operates plant equipment including ... contract, or determination by the Attorney General. Please note Sasol will not sponsor, obtain, and ...

NRG

DOTP-Plant Operator

Bridgeport, TX · On-site

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

TalentClout

Bulk Plant Operator

Strasburg, OH

$19 - $21/hr

This is a contract opportunity with a well-established industrial operation, offering variety in ... As a Bulk Plant Operator, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient handling and movement of ...

NRG Energy

DOTP-Plant Operator

Bridgeport, TX · On-site

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

NRG

DOTP-Plant Operator

Bridgeport, TX · On-site

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

NRG Energy

DOTP-Plant Operator

Bridgeport, TX

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

Allan Myers, Inc

Plant Operator

Devault, PA · On-site

Perform winter maintenance repairs on plant. * Assist as an equipment operator as needed - during ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

Allan Myers, Inc

Plant Operator

Reading, PA · On-site

Perform winter maintenance repairs on plant. * Assist as an equipment operator as needed - during ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

NRG

DOTP-Plant Operator

Palo Pinto, TX

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

NRG

DOTP-Plant Operator

Palo Pinto, TX · On-site

The Plant Operator ensures safe, efficient, reliable, and environmentally compliant generation of ... create a contract or guarantee promotion. * The position is a DOT PHMSA covered position and ...

Uofl

The Plant Operator II position assists the Plant Operator in the operation, monitoring, and ... contract renewal, tenure, compensation, benefits, and/or working conditions. No employee or ...

kgs

Plant Operator Supervisor

Alexandria, VA · On-site

The Plant Operator Supervisor will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated ... Will be required to do all annual trainings that are required by the contract. Requirements: * High ...

Koniag, Inc.

Plant Operator Supervisor

Washington, DC · On-site

$40 - $41/hr

The Plant Operator Supervisor will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated ... Will be required to do all annual trainings that are required by the contract. Requirements: * High ...

Allan Myers, Inc

Plant Operator

Paradise, PA

Perform winter maintenance repairs on plant. * Assist as an equipment operator as needed - during ... under contract. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement and prior written authorization ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsContract Plant Operator Jobs

Contract Plant Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$39

How much do contract plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract 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 Contract Plant Operator vs Process Operator?

AspectContract Plant OperatorProcess Operator
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in equipment operation and safetyRequires process-specific certifications and safety training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, construction sites, or temporary project sitesManufacturing plants, chemical facilities, or continuous process environments
Employer & Industry UsageContract-based roles in construction, energy, or manufacturing sectorsFull-time roles in chemical, petrochemical, or manufacturing industries

Contract Plant Operators and Process Operators share similar certifications and work in industrial environments, but Contract Plant Operators often work on temporary or project-based sites, while Process Operators are typically employed full-time in continuous process facilities. Both roles require safety training and equipment operation skills, but their work settings and employment types differ.

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

To thrive as a Contract Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of process operations, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with industrial control systems, SCADA software, and regulatory compliance tools is typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help operators manage plant operations efficiently and respond to issues promptly. These abilities ensure safe, continuous production and adherence to industry standards in dynamic plant environments.

What are Contract Plant Operators?

Contract Plant Operators are professionals hired on a contract basis to operate, monitor, and maintain industrial machinery and equipment, such as those found in factories, power plants, or processing facilities. They are responsible for ensuring that operations run smoothly, safely, and efficiently according to industry standards and client requirements. Their duties can include starting and stopping equipment, performing routine inspections, troubleshooting issues, and maintaining accurate records. Contract Plant Operators are typically employed by staffing agencies or directly by companies for specific projects or to cover temporary staffing needs.

What are some typical challenges faced by Contract Plant Operators, and how can they effectively manage them?

Contract Plant Operators often face challenges such as quickly adapting to different plant processes, maintaining compliance with strict safety protocols, and ensuring efficient equipment operation in unfamiliar environments. To manage these, it's helpful to develop strong communication skills, thoroughly review operational manuals for each site, and actively participate in safety briefings. Building good relationships with permanent staff can also improve workflow and support problem-solving when unexpected issues arise.
More about Contract Plant Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Contract 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 Contract Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Plant Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Contract Plant Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Contract Plant Operator jobs are:
Contract Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.
Central Plant Operator

Central Plant Operator

Pae

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Monitor and operate central plant equipment, including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, heat exchangers, pumps, and related HVAC/mechanical systems.

  • Conduct routine preventive maintenance, inspections, and equipment checks.

  • Troubleshoot operational issues and perform minor repairs to maintain system reliability.

Job description

Amentum is seeking a skilled Central Plant Operator to support the operation and maintenance of a central utility plant serving critical building systems in the Washington, DC area. This position is responsible for monitoring, operating, and maintaining boilers, chillers, cooling towers, pumps, and other HVAC and mechanical systems essential to providing safe, efficient heating and cooling throughout the facility or campus.

The Central Plant Operator serves as the primary caretaker of the facility's central energy production system, performing routine inspections, regulating temperatures, pressures, and flow rates, troubleshooting operational issues, and responding to emergencies to ensure continuous, reliable service.

Key Responsibilities
  • Monitor and operate central plant equipment, including boilers, chillers, cooling towers, heat exchangers, pumps, and related HVAC/mechanical systems.
  • Regulate plant operating conditions such as temperatures, pressures, and flow rates to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency.
  • Conduct routine preventive maintenance, inspections, and equipment checks.
  • Troubleshoot operational issues and perform minor repairs to maintain system reliability.
  • Maintain plant logs, records, and equipment status reports.
  • Respond promptly to alarms, system failures, and emergency conditions.
  • Support continuous operation of heating and cooling distribution systems across the facility or campus.
  • Ensure compliance with safety codes, operational standards, and manufacturer guidelines.
  • Collaborate with facility engineers, maintenance personnel, and contractors on system repairs or upgrades.
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma (required).
  • Experience in HVAC systems or mechanical operations.
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience working as a Central Plant Operator or in a similar role.
  • Understanding of boilers, chillers, pumps, and largescale HVAC systems.
  • Ability to read gauges, meters, and system diagrams.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problemsolving skills.
  • Ability to work in a physically active and safetysensitive environment.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working in government, industrial, or large commercial facilities.
  • Knowledge of building automation systems (BAS).
  • Familiarity with water treatment processes for boilers and cooling towers.
  • Additional HVAC or mechanical certifications.

Compensation Details:

$85,000-$90,000

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

02/10/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.

Apply