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Entry Level Plant Operator Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Mid South Wire

Class One Machine Operator

Scott City, MO · On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

This is an entry-level position. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following ... ORGANIZATION RELATIONSHIP: Manager Division Plant Manager Production Supervisor MS1000 ...

Howmet

Shear Operator - Level 1

Washington, MO · On-site

$20.22/hr

... plant operations by operating machinery that cuts titanium sheets to precise customer specifications. No prior experience working with titanium metals or machinery? No problem - this entry-level role ...

Precoat Metals

Production Worker

Washington, MO · On-site

$28.64 - $36.60/hr

Company Description The Precoat Metals Washington Plant is the newest, state-of-the-art facility in ... entry level and skilled operator level jobs to staff our site for 24/7 operations. Since 1961 ...

Precoat Metals

Production Worker

Washington, MO

$28.64 - $36.60/hr

Company Description The Precoat Metals Washington Plant is the newest, state-of-the-art facility in ... entry level and skilled operator level jobs to staff our site for 24/7 operations. Since 1961 ...

Precoat Metals

Production Worker

Washington, MO · On-site

Company Description The Precoat Metals Washington Plant is the newest, state-of-the-art facility in ... entry level and skilled operator level jobs to staff our site for 24/7 operations. Since 1961 ...

ADB Companies

Laborer

Jefferson City, MO

$24/hr

ADB is seeking a Laborer II to provide outside plant (OSP) installation support on various sized ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

ADB Companies

Laborer

Jefferson City, MO

$24/hr

ADB is seeking a Laborer II to provide outside plant (OSP) installation support on various sized ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

ADB

Laborer II

Pacific, MO · On-site

$24/hr

ADB is seeking a Laborer II to provide outside plant (OSP) installation support on various sized ... Provides training and support to entry level laborers ensuring compliance to ADB's operating and ...

Buzzi Unicem USA, Inc.

Laborer

Festus, MO

$22.50/hr

The Laborer position at our Festus, MO Plant , which is our entry-level position with a starting rate of $22.50 per hour , is critical in supporting our plant needs by performing a combination of ...

Buzzi Unicem USA, Inc.

Laborer

Festus, MO · On-site

$22.50/hr

Responsibilities The Laborer position at our Festus, MO Plant , which is our entry-level position with a starting rate of $22.50 per hour , is critical in supporting our plant needs by performing a ...

Butterball

Sanitation Associate - 3rd Shift

Carthage, MO · On-site

$12.75 - $15.25/hr

Ensure product safety and product defense in the plant.? * Maintain and clean water lines ... High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.? * Entry level does not require?previous?experience in ...

Maverik Oils LLC

Junior Sales Associate

Union, MO · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

This entry-level role is designed to build technical product knowledge, application awareness, and ... Participate in customer meetings, production trials, and plant visits to understand equipment ...

Maverik Oils LLC

Junior Sales Associate

Union, MO · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

This entry-level role is designed to build technical product knowledge, application awareness, and ... Participate in customer meetings, production trials, and plant visits to understand equipment ...

Maverik Oils LLC

Junior Sales Associate

Union, MO · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

This entry-level role is designed to build technical product knowledge, application awareness, and ... Participate in customer meetings, production trials, and plant visits to understand equipment ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPlant Operator JobsEntry Level Plant Operator JobsEntry Level Plant Operator Jobs in Missouri

Entry Level Plant Operator information

See Missouri salary details

$11

$16

$20

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level plant operator in Missouri is $16.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Plant Operator, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with process control systems, monitoring instrumentation, and safety certifications such as OSHA training are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork set top performers apart in this role. These capabilities are essential for maintaining safe, efficient plant operations and minimizing downtime or hazards.

What is the difference between Entry Level Plant Operator vs Water Treatment Plant Operator?

AspectEntry Level Plant OperatorWater Treatment Plant Operator
Required CertificationsHigh school diploma, on-the-job training, possibly a state licenseHigh school diploma, state certification/license often required
Work EnvironmentFactories, power plants, manufacturing facilitiesWater treatment facilities, municipal plants
Industry UsageManufacturing, energy, utilitiesPublic utilities, municipal water services
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Plant Operators and Water Treatment Plant Operators often share similar certifications and work environments. While entry level roles focus on basic plant operations across various industries, water treatment operators specialize in maintaining water quality in municipal facilities. Both roles require technical knowledge and safety training, making them comparable options for those starting in plant operations.

What does an entry level plant operator do?

An Entry Level Plant Operator is responsible for assisting in the operation and maintenance of equipment in manufacturing or processing plants. Their duties often include monitoring machinery, collecting samples, recording data, and following safety procedures to ensure efficient plant operations. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced operators and receive on-the-job training to learn how to address minor issues and keep the plant running smoothly. This role is an excellent starting point for those interested in advancing within industrial or plant operations.

How to get hired as an entry level plant operator?

To get hired as an entry level plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic mechanical skills, and familiarity with safety procedures. Relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training or a commercial driver's license can improve job prospects, and some employers may require on-the-job training or prior experience in a related field.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level plant operators and how can they overcome them?

Entry level plant operators often face challenges such as learning complex machinery, understanding safety protocols, and adapting to shift work. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the technical aspects and the need to quickly identify equipment issues. Overcoming these challenges involves actively participating in training sessions, asking questions, and seeking mentorship from experienced operators. Strong communication and attention to detail are also key to ensuring safety and maintaining smooth plant operations.

Is being an entry level plant operator worth it?

Entry level plant operators perform tasks such as monitoring equipment, controlling processes, and maintaining safety standards in industrial settings. The role offers opportunities for skill development, certifications, and career advancement, making it a viable starting point in the manufacturing or utilities industries.

How much do entry level plant operators make?

Entry-level plant operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on the industry and location. Starting salaries may increase with relevant certifications, such as a state-issued license, and experience operating control systems and machinery.
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs in Missouri? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Missouri are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Plant Operator jobs in Missouri? For Entry Level Plant Operator jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Plant Operator jobs in Missouri look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Plant Operator jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Entry Level Plant Operator jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Entry Level Plant Operator job openings:
Entry Level Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plant Operator job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,075 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Class One Machine Operator

Mid South Wire

Scott City, MO • On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Operates production machinery and equipment in production department. May assemble and/or pack products. Works under close supervision. This is an entry-level position.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.
  • Operate basic productivity equipment.
  • Move materials and/or parts between workstations.
  • Assist other operators by loading or unloading jigs, fixtures, and/or tooling.
  • Assemble and/or pack products.
  • Load and unload machines, conveyors, pallets or automatic lines.
  • Must keep accurate counts of production parts.
  • Produce to established standards and conduct simple quality inspections.
  • Keep work areas clean and orderly. Responsible for conducting all work in a safe manner following established safety procedures.
  • Read specified measuring instruments including but not limited to tape measure, micrometer, etc.
  • May be required to input basic data into production machinery.
  • Receives team and continuous process improvement training and participates on project teams as required.
  • May perform necessary rework and minor repairs.
  • Performs minor set-up adjustments and preventative maintenance as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • May participate on project teams as requested.

ORGANIZATION RELATIONSHIP:
Manager Division
Plant Manager
Production Supervisor
MS1000
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: No prior experience or training.
SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
  • Language Skills: Ability to understand the meaning of written or printed matter. Ability to write information by inscribing characters or symbols. Ability to speak simple sentences and communicates to co-workers and supervisors.
  • Math Skills: The ability to add, subtract, multiply or divide. Determine the number of individual things in a unit or group.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met 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.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently is required to stand; walk. Occasionally required sitting; climbing or balancing; stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
  • Lifting Frequency: Medium heavy lifting 80 lbs. maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying objects up to 40 lbs. 67 - 100% of the time.
  • Vision: Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • Repetitive Hand Action: Firm grasping - the ability to exert sufficient grip to pick-up a case of 12 oz. soft drinks or to pick-up a bowling ball. Requires approximate grip strength of 45-60 lbs. on a hand dynamometer.
  • Fine Manipulation of Hands/Fingers: Sufficient coordination to place and screw a small washer on a bolt, to pick-up clip from a desk top, or pick up a dime off a counter top. Use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works near and/or with moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and vibration.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand on concrete floors for an extended period of time.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be subject to extreme temperatures as plant production areas are not air conditioned.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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