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Junior Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities Utility Plant Operator, I Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe ... Manage shift rotation schedules for junior operators and mentor lower-level staff. Closely adhere ...

Responsibilities Utility Plant Operator, I Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe ... Manage shift rotation schedules for junior operators and mentor lower-level staff. Closely adhere ...

Responsibilities Utility Plant Operator, I Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe ... Manage shift rotation schedules for junior operators and mentor lower-level staff. Closely adhere ...

Responsibilities Utility Plant Operator, I Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe ... Manage shift rotation schedules for junior operators and mentor lower-level staff. Closely adhere ...

Systems Operator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Responsibilities Utility Plant Operator, I Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe ... Manage shift rotation schedules for junior operators and mentor lower-level staff. Closely adhere ...

Systems Operator

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$26 - $33/hr

Responsibilities Utility Plant Operator, I Operate utility systems and equipment to maintain safe ... Manage shift rotation schedules for junior operators and mentor lower-level staff. Closely adhere ...

Adjust controls to bring equipment into recommended or prescribed operating ranges. * Switch to ... Associate's degree from junior college or technical school. * Ability to read and understand ...

Adjust controls to bring equipment into recommended or prescribed operating ranges. * Switch to ... Associate's degree from junior college or technical school. * Ability to read and understand ...

Adjust controls to bring equipment into recommended or prescribed operating ranges. * Switch to ... Associate's degree from junior college or technical school. * Ability to read and understand ...

Adjust controls to bring equipment into recommended or prescribed operating ranges. * Switch to ... Associate's degree from junior college or technical school. * Ability to read and understand ...

Adjust controls to bring equipment into recommended or prescribed operating ranges. * Switch to ... Associate's degree from junior college or technical school. * Ability to read and understand ...

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Junior Plant Operator information

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$15

$21

$30

How much do junior plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior plant operator in the United States is $21.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 250 an hour?

Junior Plant Operators typically do not earn $250 an hour; such high wages are usually associated with specialized roles like senior engineers, project managers, or highly experienced technical consultants. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and work in high-demand industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, or power generation. Compensation at this level is rare and usually reflects significant expertise and responsibility.

What is the difference between Junior Plant Operator vs Plant Technician?

AspectJunior Plant OperatorPlant Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, basic technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical certifications, sometimes post-secondary training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, energy plantsIndustrial plants, maintenance facilities, energy plants
Job FocusOperating equipment, monitoring processes, basic troubleshootingMaintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting plant equipment

Junior Plant Operators primarily focus on operating and monitoring plant equipment, while Plant Technicians handle maintenance and repairs. Both roles require safety certifications and work in similar industrial environments, but their core responsibilities differ. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can earn $3,000 or more per day include roles such as senior oil and gas plant operators, specialized engineers, and certain executive positions. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and work in industries like energy, finance, or technology, sometimes involving long or irregular hours.

What does a Junior Plant Operator do?

A Junior Plant Operator assists in the day-to-day operations of industrial, manufacturing, or power plants. Their responsibilities typically include monitoring equipment, recording data, performing routine inspections, and supporting senior operators in maintaining safe and efficient plant processes. They may also help troubleshoot minor issues, follow safety procedures, and learn to operate various machinery under supervision. This entry-level role is designed to provide hands-on experience and training for advancement to more senior positions.

How hard is it to become a junior plant operator?

Becoming a junior plant operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with on-the-job training or technical coursework. Some positions may require a valid driver's license and basic knowledge of machinery or safety procedures, but formal certifications are often obtained after employment. The role generally involves learning operational systems and safety protocols under supervision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Plant Operator, you need a basic understanding of industrial processes, mechanical aptitude, and often a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with control systems, safety protocols, and equipment monitoring tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well in a team are valuable soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient and safe plant operations, minimizing downtime and supporting overall productivity.

What are some common challenges faced by Junior Plant Operators during their initial months on the job?

Junior Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as learning to monitor and operate complex machinery, understanding plant safety protocols, and adapting to shift work schedules. Adjusting to the fast-paced environment and responding to unexpected equipment issues can also be demanding at first. However, most organizations provide thorough on-the-job training and mentorship from experienced operators, which helps new hires build confidence and competence in their daily responsibilities.

How much do entry level plant workers make?

Entry-level plant operators typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, depending on the industry, location, and company. Starting salaries may increase with relevant certifications, technical skills, and experience working with equipment such as pumps, valves, and control systems.
What cities are hiring for Junior Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Junior Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Junior Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Junior Plant Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Junior Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,255 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Operations- Control Room Operator

Operations- Control Room Operator

Rouse Properties

Vidalia, LA

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:

The Power Plant Operator (PPO) is responsible for operating the Sidney A Murray, Jr.  Hydro Electric Station from the Control Room on a 24/7 rotating shift schedule.  They must be able to follow safety procedures, operational procedures, and regulatory procedures.    They must have strong communication skills so they can clearly communicate with co-workers, supervisors, United States Army Corps of Engineers (COE), LEPA, MISO, and other entities involved in station operations.  They are responsible for the proper operation of the Filtered Water and Wastewater facilities on weekends, holidays, and night shift periods.  The PPO is responsible for administering the Lock Out Tag Out program and following the proper LOTO procedures.  They are also responsible for daily rounds and inspections throughout the facility and property.

Relationships

The Power Plant Operator reports directly to the Operations Manager.  External contacts may include Federal and State Regulatory personnel, COE, LEPA, MISO, Entergy, Water Resource Managers, as well as the general public.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  1. Conduct Operator rounds
  2. Responds to all signals and alarms as soon as possible and notifies the COE and Ops Manager when generation is or may be impacted.
  3. Operates the generators via SCADA and from the Control Board if Control System is interrupted at the discretion of Ops Manager
  4. Performs LOTO of hydraulic, mechanical, main and auxiliary electrical equipment.
  5. Ability to read electrical and mechanical prints
  6. Performs all Filter Water Plant and Sewage Plant duties in absence of Water and Sewage Treatment Plant Operator
  7. Performs high voltage switching for 460V, 13kV, 69kV, and 115kV equipment
  8. Secures all exterior doors and gates after hours.
  9. Responsible for cleaning of cooling water strainers, Emergency Diesel generator room and the generator bulbs.
  10. Must be able to physically lift over 50 pounds repeatedly in a shift when assigned to strainer cleaning duty
  11. Performs assigned Work Orders.
  12. Performs other related duties as assigned or necessary.
  13. Ensures the station is in compliance with all regulatory agencies (FERC, NERC, and OSHA) and in accordance with all Safe Harbor station orders and procedures.
  14. Responsible for carrying out all safety rules and station orders.
  15. Responsible for logging critical plant operations in the electronic log
  16. Reports all events that occur regardless of whether they appear important or not to the Ops Manager including, but not limited to conduct of personnel; station disturbances, no matter how slight; accidents; etc.
  17. In a declared emergency, the Power Plant Operator shall assume the duties of “Plant Emergency Director” until relieved.
  18. Maintains a good rapport and positive working relationship with employees and outside contacts at all times.
  19. Must maintain a current drivers license for operating company vehicles.
  20. The Power Plant Operator is expected to have comprehensive knowledge on the proper operation of all equipment.
  21. Demonstrate your commitment to safety by practicing and recognizing safe work habits and following correct safety procedures, and immediately acting upon incorrect procedures when witnessed.  As a representative of Brookfield, aid in ensuring that company personnel, contractors and consultants are following company approved safety policies and procedures, and that company property is protected.
  22. Demonstrate your commitment to the environment and natural resources by practicing sound, approved environmental principles, following company policy and procedures, and immediately acting upon incorrect procedures when witnessed.
  23. Complete Job Safety Plans to identify required tasks, associated hazards (safety and environmental) of each task and appropriate barriers for prevention.

QUALIFICATIONS

Educational Requirements

The Power Plant Operator is required to have a high school diploma or GED, with extensive experience in the operation of generating station equipment, sufficient to understand the function of each unit and its relation to the overall operation of the station.  An Associate Degree in Electrical/Electronics is preferred, in addition to a strong electrical or electronic background and process system Operations and Maintenance training or experience. 

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

They are required to maintain certification in basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation; taking readings, and computer data acquisition; have the ability to follow rules and procedures for the proper operation of equipment; the ability to make complex decisions; the ability to analyze operating problems quickly and make prompt decisions based on analysis and good judgment. 

Minimum Experience

The Power Plant Operator must have thorough knowledge of operating instructions, turbines, generators, station and substation electrical layouts, tie lines, circuits and feeders; and thorough knowledge of all safety rules and station orders applicable to work performed.  Basic computer skills are essential; strong knowledge of MS Word, and Excel. 

Salary: $55K-$65K 

Target Bonus: 5%