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Entry Level Plant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

$29.07/hr

Pay Scale: Entry Level Pay: $18.00 Progression to Top Rate $29.07 Position Summary: * Security provides 24/7 Plant Protection Security coverage consisting of 1st, 2nd, 3rd shifts * Perform Employee ...

R&D Technologist

Arden Hills, MN · On-site

$51K - $77K/yr

This entry-level position is based at our Arden Hills, MN facility and does not offer relocation ... Execute and support benchtop and pilot plant experiments, routine testing, dairy product taste ...

R&D Technologist

Arden Hills, MN · On-site

$51K - $77K/yr

This entry-level position is based at our Arden Hills, MN facility and does not offer relocation ... Execute and support benchtop and pilot plant experiments, routine testing, dairy product taste ...

Maintenance Mechanic

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site

$26 - $33.25/hr

... entry level to executive level positions. Under general supervision and following established ... Performs welding repair as required on plant operations machinery and related equipment. * Assists ...

Maintenance Mechanic

Brooklyn Park, MN · On-site

$26 - $33.25/hr

... entry level to executive level positions. Under general supervision and following established ... Performs welding repair as required on plant operations machinery and related equipment. * Assists ...

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Entry Level Plant information

See Minnesota salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do entry level plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level plant in Minnesota is $18.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $20.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Plant Worker, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and familiarity with safety protocols. Experience with production equipment, forklifts, or computerized control systems, as well as OSHA safety certification, is often valued. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and effective teamwork skills help individuals excel in this role. These skills ensure efficient and safe plant operations, minimize downtime, and support overall productivity.

What is the difference between Entry Level Plant vs Entry Level Manufacturing Technician?

AspectEntry Level PlantEntry Level Manufacturing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production plants, industrial settingsFactories, production lines, industrial environments
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing, energy, and processing plantsPrimarily in manufacturing and assembly facilities
Job FocusAssisting with plant operations, basic maintenance, safety proceduresOperating machinery, quality checks, basic troubleshooting

Both roles are entry-level positions in manufacturing environments, requiring similar credentials and working in industrial settings. The main difference lies in job focus: Entry Level Plant roles often involve supporting overall plant operations, while Entry Level Manufacturing Technicians focus more on operating equipment and performing quality checks.

What is an entry level plant?

An entry level plant job typically refers to a position in a manufacturing, processing, or production facility where no prior experience is required. These roles often involve operating machinery, assembling products, inspecting materials, or assisting skilled workers. Entry level plant workers receive on-the-job training and are responsible for maintaining safety standards and supporting efficient plant operations. These positions can be a great starting point for a long-term career in manufacturing or industrial sectors.

How to get started in entry level plant jobs?

To start an entry-level plant job, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may benefit from basic knowledge of safety procedures and equipment. Applying through online job boards, visiting local manufacturing facilities, and highlighting reliability and willingness to learn are common steps. Some positions may require certifications such as OSHA safety training or forklift operation.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level plant workers, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level plant workers often face challenges such as adapting to a fast-paced environment, learning to operate complex machinery, and adhering to strict safety protocols. Overcoming these challenges typically involves thorough on-the-job training, seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, and consistently following established safety procedures. Building strong communication skills and staying proactive about learning new processes can help new hires excel and advance within the plant.
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Plant jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Entry Level Plant jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Entry Level Plant job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,668 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

$29.07/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 536 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: NoDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop GrummanDefense Systemsis currently seeking aPlant Protection Officer - Security Officerto join our team inRocket Center, West Virginiajust outside of Cumberland, Maryland. The Allegany Ballistics Laboratory (ABL) site in Rocket Center designs, develops and manufactures tactical rocket motors, medium caliber ammunition, composite components and end items, and fuze and electronics equipment.

For decades, the dedicated and highly skilled team at ABL have supported national security efforts by developing and building defense systems for DoD customers and U.S. allies.

Pay Scale:

Entry Level Pay: $18.00 Progression to Top Rate $29.07

Position Summary:

  • Security provides 24/7 Plant Protection Security coverage consisting of 1st, 2nd, 3rd shifts

  • Perform Employee and Visitor Access control

  • Enforce Conditions of Entry to the Government Facility

  • Issue employee and visitor security badges

  • Conduct badge inspections

  • Conduct Department of Defense Security Inspections

  • Enforce all Department of Defense and site-specific Safety and Security policies

  • Must be able to clearly communicate and provide directions to personnel

  • Monitor Security Cameras, Fire alarm System, Answer Telephone

  • Activate proper Plant Alarms, Initiating proper notification during plant emergencies and alarms

  • Maintain accountability of key control/issue as required by DoD/AAE

  • Provide medical treatment for all medical emergencies on the facility

  • Provide emergency fire response and be able to implement firefighting tactics

  • Respond to investigation of smoke, trespassers, strange vehicles, conducting patrols

  • Write accurate, detailed reports for medical and security incidents as required

  • Provide professional, courteous security services to all incoming customers, visitors and employees

  • Monitor cure bay and explosive operations and report malfunctions for corrective action

  • Provide traffic stops during explosives' movements

  • Protect the Northrop Grumman facility and employees from sabotage, espionage, theft, Insider Threat, Active Threat

Basic Qualifications:

  • Must be Fire Fighter Certified and have current certifications.

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Active, valid driver's license.

  • Ability to achieve Firearms Qualification - rifle, handgun and shotgun - within 90 days of hiring.

  • Able to pass physician's physical and perform duties of a fire brigade member in accordance with NFPA and OSHA standards.

  • Obtain and maintain an ATF EPQ.

  • Ability to participate in specialty teams; HAZWOPER, confined space rescue, as required.

  • Must be able to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance; U.S. Citizenship is a prerequisite

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Current First Aid and CPR certification.

  • 3 years of Fire Fighter active experience as volunteer or paid employee

  • Security, Law Enforcement or Military Background

  • 2 years or more experience, preferably in a defense manufacturing environment

  • Security, Law Enforcement or Military Background

  • 2 years or more experience, preferably in a defense manufacturing environment

  • This position falls under a Federal Explosives License issued by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for this location. Candidates hired into this role will be required to complete and submit an Employee Possessor Questionnaire to ATF for approval to be a possessor.

The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939