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Entry Level Wash Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Plant Operator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Federal Way, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Puyallup, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Kent, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Federal Way, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Orting, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Buckley, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Enumclaw, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Kent, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Seattle, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Sumner, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

Plant Operator

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants ... Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Wash Plant Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$39

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

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level wash plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to become a plant operator?

Becoming an entry-level wash plant operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and on-the-job training. Basic mechanical skills, attention to safety procedures, and sometimes a certification in equipment operation are helpful; most training is provided by employers, and the role often involves working in outdoor environments with shift schedules.

What is the difference between Entry Level Wash Plant Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectEntry Level Wash Plant OperatorEquipment Operator
CertificationsBasic safety training, possibly OSHASimilar safety certifications, equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentMining or construction sites, processing plantsConstruction sites, industrial facilities
Job FocusOperating wash plant machinery, material processingOperating various heavy equipment like bulldozers, excavators
Industry UsageMining, aggregate production, constructionConstruction, mining, infrastructure projects

While both roles involve operating heavy machinery in industrial settings, the Entry Level Wash Plant Operator specializes in managing wash plant equipment for material processing, whereas the Equipment Operator may handle a broader range of machinery across different projects. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and certifications.

How to start a career in water treatment?

To start a career as an entry-level wash plant operator in water treatment, gain basic knowledge of water treatment processes and safety procedures. Obtain relevant certifications such as OSHA safety training or water treatment operator licenses, and consider hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions in water treatment facilities or related environments.

Where do wastewater operators make the most money?

Wastewater plant operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and more industrial activity, such as urban areas or states with strong environmental regulations. Experience, certifications, and the size of the facility also influence earning potential, with larger plants often offering higher wages.

How much do entry level plant workers make?

Entry-level wash plant operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on location and company. Starting salaries may increase with experience, certifications, and familiarity with equipment and safety protocols.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Wash Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Wash Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Wash Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Wash Plant Operator jobs are:
Plant Operator

$32 - $42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Heidelberg Materials rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

393rd of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

Line of Business: Other
About Us
Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S. and Canada with approximately 9,000 employees.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants, and filter press plants, to ensure safe and efficient production
  • Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and basic troubleshooting to maximize equipment reliability and minimize downtime
  • Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and plant performance
  • Maintain strict safety compliance while following all environmental, operational, and company procedures
  • Communicate effectively with team members to coordinate work activities and resolve operational issues

What Are We Looking For
  • Experience safely operating industrial, aggregate, or processing plant equipment with a strong commitment to safety and compliance
  • Knowledge of fixed plant and processing machinery, including crushers, screens, wash plants, and filter press plants
  • Experience performing routine preventive maintenance, inspections, and basic mechanical troubleshooting
  • Hands-on experience with heavy mobile equipment such as loaders, haul trucks, excavators, and water trucks is preferred; candidates willing to learn are encouraged to apply
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to work independently, collaborate with a team, and adapt to changing operational needs

Conditions of Employment
  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check
  • Some positions require FMCSA regulated ongoing drug and alcohol testing
  • Applicants must be 18 years of age or older to apply. Verification of age will be required as a condition of employment

Work Environment
  • Role operates primarily in environments where the conditions include moving mechanical equipment, inclement weather, heat, cold, humidity, and elevated noise level.
  • Able to work morning, afternoon and some nights when needed

What We Offer
  • $32.00 to $42.00 per hour
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with an automatic company contribution as well as matching contributions
  • Highly competitive benefits programs, including:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision along with Prescription Drug Benefits
    • Health Saving Savings Account (HSA), Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
    • AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability Coverage as well as Basic Life Insurance
    • Paid Bonding Leave, 10 days of Paid Vacation, 40 hours of Paid Sick Leave and 10 Paid Holidays

Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled

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