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Entry Level Gas Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Fill Plant Operator

Chester, VA · On-site

$22 - $23/hr

This position will serve as a multifunctional operator for the Chester Gas Plant, with its primary focus on the Specialty Gas Department. The ability to operate in multiple areas of the facility, as ...

R10098012 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Portsmouth, VA - Filling industrial How will you ... Industrial Gas Experience. * Excellent attention to detail and thoughtful organizational skills.

R10098012 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Portsmouth, VA - Filling industrial How will you ... Industrial Gas Experience. * Excellent attention to detail and thoughtful organizational skills.

Plant Operator Lead Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537106 Work type: Staff Senior ... Operate coal, gas, oil fired boilers, and related plant equipment. Operate air pollution control ...

Ladedra Walthall ladedra.walthall@airliquide.com | 6789856735 Airgas is seeking a dedicated Production Plant Operator to join our team at one of our Merchant Gas production facilities. In this role ...

Ladedra Walthall ladedra.walthall@airliquide.com | 6789856735 Airgas is seeking a dedicated Production Plant Operator to join our team at one of our Merchant Gas production facilities. In this role ...

Operator - Post Plant

Madison, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Monday - Thursday: 5AM to 3:30PM, Friday: 7AM - 3:30PM Madison Wood's Post Plant manufactures ... This position is an entry level position that understands how to properly work sorting/counting ...

... the Gas fleet. Responsible for promoting safe, effective, and reliable operation. Key ... a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

... the Gas fleet. Responsible for promoting safe, effective, and reliable operation. Key ... a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

... the Gas fleet. Responsible for promoting safe, effective, and reliable operation. Key ... a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

... the Gas fleet. Responsible for promoting safe, effective, and reliable operation. Key ... a senior operator or supervisor Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or ...

... the Gas fleet. Responsible for promoting safe, effective, and reliable operation. Key ... operator or supervisor • Utilizes/operates various types of hand, power, precision or machine ...

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Entry Level Gas Plant Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$22

$39

How much do entry level gas plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level gas plant operator in Virginia is $22.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level gas plant operator do?

An Entry Level Gas Plant Operator is responsible for assisting in the operation and maintenance of equipment used to process and distribute natural gas. Their duties typically include monitoring gauges, recording data, adjusting controls, and performing basic inspections to ensure safety and efficiency. They work under the supervision of experienced operators and follow strict safety protocols. Over time, they gain hands-on experience and learn how to handle routine procedures and respond to emergencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level gas plant operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Gas Plant Operator, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with SCADA systems, process monitoring tools, and potentially certifications like HAZWOPER or OSHA safety training are typically expected. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient plant operations and quick response to any operational issues.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level gas plant operators, and how can they be successfully managed?

Entry level gas plant operators often face challenges such as learning complex safety protocols, adapting to shift work schedules, and understanding the technical aspects of plant equipment. Success in this role requires strong attention to detail, willingness to ask questions, and proactive communication with experienced team members. New operators typically receive on-the-job training and are encouraged to participate actively in safety drills and team meetings to build their confidence and competence.

What is the difference between Entry Level Gas Plant Operator vs Gas Processing Technician?

AspectEntry Level Gas Plant OperatorGas Processing Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety training, possibly certificationsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentGas plants, industrial facilities, outdoor and indoor settingsProcessing plants, industrial sites, similar outdoor/indoor environments
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas industry, energy companiesOil & gas, petrochemical industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Gas Plant Operator and a Gas Processing Technician lies in their job focus. Entry Level Gas Plant Operators typically handle basic operations, safety checks, and monitoring equipment, while Gas Processing Technicians often perform more technical tasks like troubleshooting and maintenance. Both roles require safety training and certifications, and they work in similar environments within the oil and gas industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Gas Plant Operator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Gas Plant Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Gas Plant Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Gas Plant Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Gas Plant Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Gas Plant Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Gas Plant Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, and 90% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,122 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Fill Plant Operator

ARC3 GASES Inc

Chester, VA • On-site

$22 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Arc3 Gases rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

223rd of 415 rated retail wholesalers


Job description

About Us

Arc3 Gases is a family-owned, independent distributor of industrial gases, welding supplies, safety products, and hardgoods used in metal fabrication industries. We prioritize family values and a focus on people while safely delivering solutions to the customers we serve. Our core values include trust, responsiveness, reliability, and technical competence.


Job Overview:

This position will serve as a multifunctional operator for the Chester Gas Plant, with its primary focus on the Specialty Gas Department. The ability to operate in multiple areas of the facility, as well as possessing technical knowledge of their processes and equipment will be crucial. Daily duties are subject to the direction of the Gas Plant Manager, who may shift assignments based on current needs of the facility. The main objective of this position is to provide a layer of effective operational support across the entire facility.


Cooperation and Teamwork:

A fundamental attribute of the Operations Assistant will be its ability to effectively lend support in multiple areas of the operation by building relationships and trust across all departments within the facility, learning from its operators and managers, and maintaining a sense of ownership over any operational gaps that develop due to PTO, seasonal volume demands, equipment failures, special projects, etc.


Areas of Responsibilities:

  1. Spec Gas Department
    1. Primary responsibility – this position will report daily to the spec gas department and will only be redirected if deemed necessary by the Gas Plant Manager. Full operational capability is expected within this department and will include:
      1. Cylinder preparation – operational knowledge of bakeout systems, vacuum levels, cylinder connections, system integrity and construction.
      2. Cylinder filling – Gravimetric fill techniques/mixture preparation, gas component compatibilities, pressure requirements, and fill practices that maintain required purity levels
      3. Analytical systems – Operational knowledge of all analytical equipment and processes, sample system construction, ability to troubleshoot issues/maintain equipment, use of analytical software, ability to quantify results, and prepare certificates of analysis.
      4. Shipping/receiving from third party vendors and suppliers – Prepare and load cylinders for shipment, arrange freight requests/bill of ladings, communicate with freight broker and consignees.
  2. General Gas Plant support
    1. Secondary responsibility – the Gas Plant Manager may redirect the workflow of this position to fill any operational gaps that develop within the facility. Tasks tied to these gaps will include but are not limited to the following:
      1. Industrial/Medical/Food-Bev production – Operational knowledge of fill systems in these areas, which include CO2, cryogenic liquid cylinders, Helium, Argon, Nitrogen, Hydrogen, Acetylene, and Oxygen, as well as Shieldpro and Food/Bev mixtures. Knowledge and ability to operate within the CERES digital recordkeeping system for medical gases.
      2. TIMS – Administrative capabilities that include pulling the automated gas orders, processing add-on’s, adjusting/editing tickets, transferring orders via TIMS Delivery, and final order processing.
      3. ACM – Understanding the cylinder management and barcoding system, and ability to operate within all its functions.
      4. Equipment maintenance – Assist in the general upkeep, preventative maintenance, and repair of gas plant equipment, including but not limited to pumps, motors, gauges, valves, and piping. Disassembly and reassembly of compression and threaded connections, application of grease and replacement of equipment soft goods (packing/seals/etc).
  3. Remote Support
    1. Occasionally situations will arise that may require the Gas Plant Manager to direct this position to temporarily assist operational gaps that develop within the company.


Qualifications

Education

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience

  • Two or more years of experience in the welding and gas or similar industry preferred.

Skills & Abilities

  • Positive “can do” mindset and excellent work ethic required.
  • Proficiency with MS Office Suite preferred.
  • Good communication skills required.
  • Solid understanding of cylinder gas products preferred.
  • Mechanically inclined – use of basic hand tools.

Physical Requirements

  • Stand and walk for eight-hour periods.
  • Roll two cylinders at a time continuously.
  • Tighten cylinder ratchet straps, manipulate/twist valve handles and cylinder caps continuously.
  • Bend at the waist and knees frequently.
  • Climb in and out of forklift frequently.
  • Withstand loud noise levels.
  • Withstand exposure to all weather conditions.

Location

  • Full-Time at the Arc3 Gases Chester Gas Plant
    • Occasional travel may be required


Confidentiality and Discretion

Arc3 Gases requires all employees to sign a non-disclosure of confidential information agreement.

Benefits

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Health Savings Accounts with Annual Company Contribution
  • Company Paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Company Paid Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
  • Voluntary Life, Critical Illness, and Accident Insurance
  • New Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellness Program with Health Insurance Premium Discounts
  • Company Paid Uniforms
  • Personal Protective Equipment Reimbursements

Equal Opportunity Employer. Disabled/Protected Veterans.


What Arc3 Gases employees say

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