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Entry Level Plant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Entry Level Sales

Richmond, VA · On-site

$10K - $20K/mo

Voted Top Company Culture by Entrepreneur Magazine Forbes Magazine's 25 Companies Hiring The Most High-Paying Jobs In 2024 If this sounds like a place you could plant your flag, we invite you to ...

Maintenance Technician ABOUT THE ROLE This is an entry level Mechanical Maintenance position ... This includes preventative maintenance and troubleshooting of plant equipment. WHAT YOU'LL ...

WWTP Operator

Front Royal, VA · On-site

$17.22/hr

... Plant and related equipment. The Town offers a competitive salary based on experience, certifications and job performance. The entry level hiring rate for this position (no experience required) is ...

AdvanSix strives to deliver best-in-class customer experiences and differentiated products in the industries of nylon solutions, chemical intermediates, and plant nutrients, guided by our core values ...

Entrylevel role with minimal industrial or terminal experience required * Focused on safety ... Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant environment * Demonstrated ability to ...

Entrylevel role with minimal industrial or terminal experience required * Focused on safety ... Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant environment * Demonstrated ability to ...

Approximately $23/hour * Entry-level role with minimal industrial or terminal experience required ... Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant environment * Demonstrated ability to ...

Approximately $23/hour * Entry-level role with minimal industrial or terminal experience required ... Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant environment * Demonstrated ability to ...

Entrylevel role with minimal industrial or terminal experience required * Focused on safety ... Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant environment * Demonstrated ability to ...

Entrylevel role with minimal industrial or terminal experience required * Focused on safety ... Prior experience in an industrial, terminal, rail, or plant environment * Demonstrated ability to ...

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Entry Level Plant information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do entry level plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level plant in Virginia is $18.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $20.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do entry level plant workers make?

Entry-level plant workers typically earn between $12 and $17 per hour, depending on the industry, location, and company. Starting salaries may increase with experience, safety certifications, and familiarity with machinery or production processes.

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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry-level plant jobs typically do not pay $4,000 a week; such high wages are usually associated with specialized roles, skilled trades, or management positions that require experience or certifications. High-paying jobs without a degree often involve sales, real estate, or entrepreneurial ventures, but these are less common at the entry level and may require specific skills or licenses.

What is an entry level plant job?

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 plant jobs?

To start in plant jobs, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may undergo on-the-job training. Relevant skills include attention to safety protocols, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to work in a team environment; certifications like OSHA safety training can be beneficial. Entry-level positions often require physical stamina and willingness to work shifts or overtime.

What is the easiest factory job?

An entry-level factory job often considered easier is a general production or assembly line position, which typically requires minimal experience and involves repetitive tasks. These roles usually involve basic physical work, following simple instructions, and may require safety training or certifications. The difficulty can vary based on the specific factory environment and tasks involved.

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 Virginia? The most popular types of Plant jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plant job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,130 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Plant Health Care (PHC) Technician

RTEC Treecare

Falls Church, VA • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

About Us:
RTEC Treecare is a trusted provider of professional tree care and plant health services throughout Northern Virginia and the greater DC area. Since 1996, we have focused on sustainable arboriculture, environmental stewardship, and science-based care that helps trees and landscapes thrive.
We are looking for a Junior Plant Health Care Technician to join our team in Falls Church, VA. This is a hands-on entry-level to early-career role for someone interested in plant health care, arboriculture, and environmentally responsible landscape care. If you enjoy working outdoors, are eager to learn, and want to grow your career in tree and plant health, we want to hear from you.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform routine treatments including fertilization, pest management, and disease control under proper supervision
  • Assist senior PHC Technicians with inspections, applications, advanced treatments, and client service visits
  • Monitor tree and shrub health and report concerns or treatment needs to senior technicians or management
  • Apply pesticides, fertilizers, and treatment materials safely according to label instructions and company procedures
  • Support Integrated Pest Management programs through observation, documentation, and follow-up service tasks
  • Maintain accurate records of treatments, materials used, and site observations
  • Operate, clean, and maintain PHC equipment, tools, supplies, and company vehicles
  • Communicate professionally with clients during service visits as needed
  • Follow all safety, PPE, pesticide, and compliance procedures in the field
Requirements:
  • 0-2 years of experience in plant health care, arboriculture, lawn care, landscaping, horticulture, environmental work, or a related field
  • Interest in tree and shrub care, plant health, pest management, and sustainable landscape practices
  • Willingness to learn plant identification, pest and disease recognition, treatment methods, and safe application procedures
  • Comfortable working outdoors and performing physical tasks in varying weather conditions
  • Strong attention to detail, reliability, and commitment to safe work practices
  • Positive attitude, strong communication skills, and ability to work well as part of a team
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
  • Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License a plus, but not required
  • ISA Arborist Certification is a plus, but not required
We Offer:
  • Competitive pay with opportunities for performance-based increases
  • Benefits package including health insurance, paid time off & holidays, and Simple IRA after tenured time
  • Paid training and ongoing professional development opportunities
  • Support in developing technical skills, licensing, and plant health care knowledge
  • Career advancement into senior Plant Health Care roles or other arboriculture specialties
  • A dynamic work environment that values safety, quality, sustainability, and continuous improvement