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Entry Level Plant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Vulcan Materials Company

Plant Maintenance

Columbia, TN · On-site

$18.75 - $25.50/hr

Job Summary The General Maintenance position is an entry-level role and is responsible for ... plant equipment. Critical Competencies • Communication - Ability to clearly and effectively ...

Vulcan Materials Company

Plant Maintenance

Columbia, TN

$20 - $27/hr

Job Summary The General Maintenance position is an entry-level role and is responsible for ... Record and maintain service logs, lubrication reports, and maintenance records for plant equipment.

Magnolia Acquisitions Inc

Be Seen First

Client Representative - Entry Level Sales

Clinton, TN · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Magnolia Acquisitions is looking for a motivated, people-focused Entry Level Client Representative ... Magnolia Acquisitions strives to build a foundation of strong leaders to plant the seed of success ...

Magnolia Acquisitions Inc

Be Seen First

Client Representative - Entry Level Sales

Clinton, TN · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Magnolia Acquisitions is looking for a motivated, people-focused Entry Level Client Representative ... Magnolia Acquisitions strives to build a foundation of strong leaders to plant the seed of success ...

Magnolia Acquisitions Inc

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Sales Representative Entry Level

Maryville, TN · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Entry Level Sales Representative At Magnolia Acquisitions, we're redefining what a sales career can ... We strive to build a foundation of strong leaders to plant the seed of success and support the ...

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Magnolia Acquisitions Inc

Be Seen First

Sales Representative Entry Level

Maryville, TN · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Entry Level Sales Representative At Magnolia Acquisitions, we're redefining what a sales career can ... We strive to build a foundation of strong leaders to plant the seed of success and support the ...

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All JobsPlant JobsEntry Level Plant JobsEntry Level Plant Jobs in Tennessee

Entry Level Plant information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$16

$25

How much do entry level plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level plant in Tennessee is $16.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $18.99 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Plant jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Plant jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Plant job openings:
Entry Level Plant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,907 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Chemical Plant Operator (Entry-Level)

Austin Powder

Midway, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Austin Powder rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

90th of 100 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Join the Family - Come work for an exciting company offering great benefits, challenging opportunities, and colleagues who feel more like family.
Overview
The Entry-Level Operator is responsible for performing all functions necessary for the chemical manufacturing of Anhydrous Ammonia, Nitric Acid, Ammonia Nitrate Solution, and Emulsion. The Entry-Level Operator performs a variety of tasks related to loading and unloading trucks, handling hazardous chemicals, and monitoring the overall manufacturing process. This position serves as the foundation to learning the overall site operations and offers growth opportunities into other positions at the facility. The Entry-Level Operator reports directly to the Operations Shift Supervisor.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
  • Assist in managing the day-to-day operations of the plant.
  • Load and unload trucks and railcars.
  • Monitor chemical processes or systems using Distributive Control Systems (DCS), local controls, or semi-automatic equipment.
  • Monitor and record various process conditions, test results, and instrument readings.
  • Conduct sampling of products to ensure quality and product standards are being met.
  • Work with various departments to report and resolve conditions affecting safety, efficiency, or quality.
  • Monitor work areas to ensure optimal operating conditions.
  • Assist with general plant and equipment maintenance.
  • Monitor railyard ensuring all railcars are staged properly and have the proper DOT placard(s).
  • Gain experience and knowledge to advance into a Utility Operator.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience
  • 18+ years of age
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D
  • Chemical manufacturing experience preferred.

Skills, Knowledge, and Requirements
  • Hazard Recognition - Identify potential safety issues and make recommendations for action or resolution.
  • Ability to assist in Emergency Response
  • Ability to wear and perform work in required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Fall protection harness, full-face respirator, chemical resistant suits, face shield, and any other necessary PPE.
  • Maintain shaven facial appearance.
  • Possess basic math skills.
  • Able to read and comprehend operating procedures and batch sheets.
  • Ability to recognize, investigate, and troubleshoot operational issues.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with various departments and team members.
  • Ability to work at heights, climb ladders and stairs, lift and carry up to 50Ibs, and operate valves.

Work Environment
US Nitrogen, LLC operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This position will be exposed to all elements of the weather on the plant site.
This is a safety sensitive position which requires employees to disclose the use of any prescription medication that may affect his or her ability to safely perform the essential functions of this position.
Austin Powder is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Austin Powder also participates in E-Verify.
This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and for inquiring about, discussing or disclosing compensation. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

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