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Permanent Plant Operator Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Waste WTP Operator

Valdosta, GA · On-site

$15.42/hr

WATER * Controls treatment plant machines and equipment to purify and clarify water for human ... Additional $2.25/hour for lead roles (temporary or permanent). * On-Call Pay : Two hours of ...

Plant Manager

Thomson, GA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

... and operating expenses for multi process Automotive Acoustic product manufacturing, including ... Ensures process and equipment warrant permanent improvements in controllability and productivity.

Plant Manager

Augusta, GA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

... and operating expenses for multi process Automotive Acoustic product manufacturing, including ... Ensures process and equipment warrant permanent improvements in controllability and productivity.

Plant Manager

Thomson, GA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

... and operating expenses for multi process Automotive Acoustic product manufacturing, including ... Ensures process and equipment warrant permanent improvements in controllability and productivity.

Operates one plant machinery as directed and specified while adhering to all rules and regulations ... permanent basis as needed. Essential Skills and Experience: * Ability to lift up to 20 pounds.

Machine Operator

Bremen, GA · On-site

$18.55/hr

Operates one plant machinery as directed and specified while adhering to all rules and regulations ... permanent basis as needed. Essential Skills and Experience: * Ability to lift up to 20 pounds.

Forklift Operator

Moultrie, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Moultrie Plant The hourly wage and bonus opportunities will vary based on position and shift. The ... This role is a permanent full-time position working Monday through Friday. What you will do as a ...

Forklift Operator

Moultrie, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Moultrie Plant The hourly wage and bonus opportunities will vary based on position and shift. The ... This role is a permanent full-time position working Monday through Friday. What you will do as a ...

Forklift Operator

Moultrie, GA

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Moultrie Plant The hourly wage and bonus opportunities will vary based on position and shift. The ... This role is a permanent full-time position working Monday through Friday. What you will do as a ...

Forklift Operator

Moultrie, GA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.25/hr

Moultrie Plant The hourly wage and bonus opportunities will vary based on position and shift. The ... This role is a permanent full-time position working Monday through Friday. What you will do as a ...

Machine Operator

Bremen, GA

$15 - $18/hr

Operates one plant machinery as directed and specified while adhering to all rules and regulations ... on a temporary or permanent basis as needed. Qualifications Essential Skills and Experience:

Operator

Rome, GA · On-site

$15.23/hr

The hours for this role are Full-time, Permanent * Leave benefits include Paid holidays, Vacation ... Plant associates are exposed to noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases, solvents, electrical ...

Machine Operator

Macon, GA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Job Summary Operate plant machinery as directed while adhering to all rules and regulations ... temporary or permanent basis as needed Job Requirements * High school diploma/equivalent; or at ...

Machine Operator

Macon, GA

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Job Summary Operate plant machinery as directed while adhering to all rules and regulations ... temporary or permanent basis as needed Job Requirements * High school diploma/equivalent; or at ...

Cuber Operator

Tyrone, GA · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Job Summary Operate plant machinery as directed while adhering to all rules and regulations ... temporary or permanent basis as needed Job Requirements To perform this job successfully, an ...

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Permanent Plant Operator information

See Georgia salary details

$11

$18

$33

How much do permanent plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for permanent plant operator in Georgia is $18.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $21.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a permanent plant operator?

Permanent Plant Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of industrial plants or facilities, such as power plants, water treatment plants, or manufacturing sites. Their duties include monitoring equipment, ensuring safety protocols are followed, performing routine maintenance, and troubleshooting mechanical issues. As permanent employees, they typically work full-time for a single employer, providing stability and in-depth knowledge of the specific plant’s systems and processes. Their role is essential for maintaining efficient and safe plant operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a permanent plant operator?

To thrive as a Permanent Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operation, process controls, and safety procedures, often backed by a high school diploma or relevant vocational training. Familiarity with SCADA systems, maintenance tools, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or specific equipment licenses are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are vital to ensure safe, efficient, and continuous plant operations with minimal downtime.

What are some typical challenges faced by permanent plant operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Permanent Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability, handling unexpected breakdowns, and working in environments with strict safety protocols. Effective communication with maintenance teams and adherence to preventive maintenance schedules can help minimize downtime. Additionally, staying updated with operational procedures and ongoing training ensures operators can respond quickly to issues, ensuring smooth plant operations.

What is the difference between Permanent Plant Operator vs Temporary Plant Operator?

AspectPermanent Plant OperatorTemporary Plant Operator
CertificationsTypically requires relevant certifications and licensesMay require similar certifications, but often less experience needed
Work EnvironmentFull-time, consistent schedule at a specific plantShort-term assignments, variable locations
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, utilities, and energy sectorsUsed for project-based or seasonal work in same industries

Permanent Plant Operators are employed full-time with stable schedules and benefits, focusing on ongoing plant operations. Temporary Plant Operators work on short-term contracts, often at different sites, providing flexibility for employers during peak periods or projects. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but differ mainly in employment stability and duration.

How much do Permanent Plant Operators make?

Permanent Plant Operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry or facility. Salaries can vary based on location, shift differentials, and the complexity of the equipment operated.

Is being a permanent plant operator worth it?

A permanent plant operator is responsible for operating and maintaining industrial equipment in facilities such as power plants or manufacturing plants. The role offers stable employment, competitive wages, and opportunities for advancement, especially with relevant certifications and experience. However, it often requires shift work, adherence to safety protocols, and physical stamina.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs in Georgia?

The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Georgia are:

Infographic showing various Permanent Plant Operator job openings in Georgia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,281 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Fermentation Operator

Manus Bio

Augusta, GA • On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Manus works across industries and value chains to accelerate the transition to BioAlternatives better performing and more sustainable versions of complex molecules traditionally sourced from plants, animals, or fossil fuels. Our platform is proven to work across scales, bridging the Valley of Death between lab and manufacturing more efficiently and more reliably to deliver the benefits of synthetic biology today.

The Chemical/Fermentation Plant Operator is responsible for the continuing efficient operation of the fermentation plant and providing overtime support as needed for production. This includes maintenance, equipment reliability, and operations. Creativity and decision-making skills are required. Must be able to maintain a good working relationship with all personnel. Work as a member of the fermentation plant team which includes assisting in the Pilot Plant. Controls, monitors, and measures fermentation processes as instructed. Abides by all safely, environmental, and quality requirements. Perform minor maintenance and duties related to product testing, including sampling.

Why work at Manus:

  • Opportunity For motivated, results-oriented team members, our growth creates opportunities for personal and professional advancement.
  • Accountability You are given the resources you need to succeed and the freedom to make it happen; in return, we hold each other accountable for our high expectations.
  • Passion We love what we do and enjoy working with others who feel the same way. We embrace the challenge and hard work that come with working on the cutting edge.

Responsibilities:

Interface with production to provide resources to solve fermentation and product isolation problems. Execute and help evaluate fermentation experiments. This activity includes:

  • Prepare fermentation and downstream equipment in accordance to SOPs, this include equipment setup, media make up, equipment disassembly, cleaning, etc.
  • Collect samples during manufacturing process for analytical analysis.
  • Prepare all required batch records, reflect constantly changing experimental designs and ensure clear communication to the process development subject matter expert of the targeted design parameters.
  • Collect and review all batch records. Data reduction includes electronic data conversion into and formatting in Excel for purposes of trending key operational parameters. Data is reviewed and checked. Off-line analytical data is reviewed for accuracy, retesting if necessary. Final results are organized and distributed to the process development subject matter expert.
  • Coordinate day-to-day Fermentation Plant activities, including manufacturing scheduling conflicts, coordinating equipment maintenance and installation activities, troubleshooting process upsets, troubleshooting equipment and instrumentation problems, optimizing operations, addressing contamination issues, addressing downtime or other runtime losses.
  • Prepare SOP for new process or operations as needed.
  • Assist and provide hands-on support of Fermentation Plant maintenance activities, including rebuilding of probes and housings, changing out gear boxes on vessels, rebuilding valves, piping modifications, and modifying/fabricating new and existing equipment.
  • Maintain the upkeep of the Fermentation Plant equipment through the process of initiating work notifications/work orders and maintenance scheduling; Use your own tools to correct minor maintenance issues is encouraged.
  • Adhere to company EH&S policies and procedure. Ensure fermentation plant compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
  • Physical demand requirements are in excess of sedentary work due to inspection of equipment. Must be able to climb stairs and ladders.
  • Must be able to wear required protective equipment including respirators (if needed).
  • Work schedule is considered day shift but will vary depending on manufacturing plan and other extraordinary conditions.
  • Ensure Fermentation plant compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Minimum of 3 years fermentation or related plant operator experience.
  • Must be able to follow minimal instructions and support safe work practices.
  • Must be an excellent team member with strong communication skills and a desire to work collaboratively.
  • Must be flexible with day-to-day duties and able to thrive in a start-up environment.
  • Must hold themselves to the highest professional and ethical standards.
  • Familiar with the production fermentation and downstream processes and equipment as well as microbiological and analytical laboratory procedures.
  • Demonstrates flexibility in job rotations/various assignments.
  • Basic PC skills which include Windows, Microsoft Office.

Preferred Qualification and Working Style:

  • SAP skills
  • Certified Train the Trainer skills
  • Delta V controls experience

Job Type: Regular, Full-Time

Employee Status: Permanent