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Entry Level Gas Plant Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Light

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

Operator - Dirt & Finish

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Will be required to work in a plant operations or construction jobsite setting. Responsibilities ... May operate hand and power tools (electric, gas, and pneumatic) of all types * Climb and maintain ...

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Entry Level Gas Plant Operator information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$13

$21

$38

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level gas plant operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $21.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $24.23 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 job categories do people searching Entry Level Gas Plant Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Gas Plant Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Entry Level Gas Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Entry Level Gas Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Gas Plant Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,671 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

St. James Parish Government is hiring for the position of Water Plant Operator I in the Operations Department.


JOB FUNCTION: Controls treatment plant machines and equipment to filter and clarify water for human consumption and industrial use.  This position is classified as essential during declared emergencies or natural disasters.  This is a nonexempt position, working a rotating shift.  This position is Safety Sensitive and subject to random drug testing as per the St. James Parish Government Employee Handbook.  Individuals in this class are able to complete the majority of their work with a minimum amount of supervision.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  Includes any combination of the following illustrative examples of duties and responsibilities including but not limited to: 

  • Operates and controls electric motors, pumps, and valve(s) to regulate the flow of raw water into treatment plant 

  • Dumps specified amounts of chemicals such as chlorine, ammonia, and lime into water; or adjust automatic devices that admit specified amounts of chemicals into tanks to disinfect, deodorize, and clarify water 

  • Starts agitators to mix chemicals and allows impurities to settle to bottom of tank(s) 

  • Turns valve(s) to regulate water through filter beds to remove impurities 

  • Pumps filtered water into water mains 

  • Monitor panel board and adjusts controls to regulate flow rates, loss of head pressure and water elevation, and distribution of water 

  • Cleans tanks and filter beds using backwashing 

  • Performs routine maintenance on machines and equipment 

  • Tests water samples to determine acidity, color, and impurities 

  • Adds chemicals such as alum into tanks to coagulate impurities and reduce acidity 

  • Records data such as residual content of chemicals, water turbidity, and water pressure 

  • Maintains daily and monthly logs 

  • Performs maintenance, repairs, and installation tasks for the public gas and water distribution system 

  • Reads and records current usage data from gas/water meters 

  • Uses equipment or visually checks for gas and water leaks 

  • May assist with the installation of wet taps on water and gas lines 

  • Classifies, codes, and posts various information and data into computer systems 

  • Other duties as assigned 

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. St. James Parish Government is an equal opportunity employer. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:  High School diploma or general education diploma (GED) with 1 year of experience as a Water Plant Operator Trainee. 

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS:  Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry.  Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and, proportions to practical situations. 

REASONING ABILITY:  Ability to define common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.  Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.  

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:  Must possess a valid Drivers License with an acceptable driving record. Will need to pass the Water Treatment Operator Class I and Distribution Class I Certification or state temporary certificates. 

 OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:   

  • General knowledge of the hazards and applicable safety rules and regulations in equipment operation 

  • Ability to perform physical labor required of the position 

  • Ability to perform daily housekeeping duties 

  • Have some knowledge of computer systems


    St. James Parish is committed to providing equal employment opportunities.  The parish will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis including, but not limited to veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, agree or political affiliations.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME