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Permanent Plant Operator Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Aerotek

Production Operators

Louisville, KY · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Production Operator This role involves operating production machinery to load parts, follow work ... The plant includes hot roll, cold roll, and punch press areas that produce brass, aluminum, and ...

Siemens Healthineers

$14.50 - $19/hr

Nuclear Engineering/Power/Energy & Nuclear Plant Operator Satellite/Radar Systems Comm Techs ... Legally authorized to work in the United States on a continual and permanent basis without company ...

W3Global Inc.

Chemical Technician/Operator

Louisville, KY · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

... plant. Job Duties: Recording readings on an hourly basis Monitoring and/or adjusting liquid and ... We specialize in placing permanent, direct, contract, and temporary positions for companies of any ...

Magna

Mgr, Program

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

... plant operating procedures to meet program requirements within the manufacturing facility ... Regular / Permanent Group: Cosma International

City of Bowling Green

LANDSCAPE HELPER

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

$17.65/hr

Watering, weeding, and pruning to operating tools like shovels, rakes, chainsaws, and wood chippers ... You'll also help install plant material and maintain those beautiful green spaces. * You'll perform ...

City of Bowling Green

LANDSCAPE HELPER

Bowling Green, KY · On-site

$17.65/hr

Watering, weeding, and pruning to operating tools like shovels, rakes, chainsaws, and wood chippers ... You'll also help install plant material and maintain those beautiful green spaces. * You'll perform ...

L'Oreal

Warehouse Supervisor - 3rd Shift

Florence, KY · On-site

... operators and Team Leads in the efficient execution of the manufacturing supply chain processes ... Authorization to work in the United States on a full-time, permanent, ongoing basis is required. No ...

New

NextDeavor

Material Handler I / Warehouse

Danville, KY · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

... for extended or permanent full-time employment Become a Key Player as a Material Handler I ... Ability to frequently move materials weighing up to 50 lbs and work around plant noise, dust, and ...

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All JobsPermanent Plant Operator JobsPermanent Plant Operator Jobs in Kentucky

Permanent Plant Operator information

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$11

$19

$34

How much do permanent plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for permanent plant operator in Kentucky is $19.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $21.92 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 Kentucky?

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

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Permanent Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Permanent Plant Operator job openings:

Permanent Plant Operator jobs near you

Plant Operator Trainee Program (2026-2027)

Jefferson County Public Schools

Louisville, KY • On-site

$16.13 - $19.24/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Jefferson County Public Schools (Kentucky) rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

431st of 639 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

Position Type:
Housekeeping/Plant Operators
Date Posted:
8/4/2026
Location:
C B YOUNG
Closing Date:
08/31/2026
PLANT OPERATOR TRAINEE PROGRAM
Job Description
Working Calendar: 261 Days/ 8.0 Hours
Salary Schedule 1B Grade 2 - This salary schedule is for internal candidates only, external candidates must enter into sub custodial pool at sub custodial rate.
SALARY PAY RANGE : $16.13 - $19.24/hr
Crtiical Need Stipend $3.50 per hour
INTERNAL CANDIDATES
At this time applications for this custodial opening are being accepted from presently employed custodians, sub-custodians, and JCPS employees with the required housekeeping training.
The purpose of the Plant Operator Trainee Program is three-fold: (1) to provide formal and on-the-job training, for a minimum of sixty-five (65) workdays, designed to prepare personnel for Plant Operator positions, (2) to provide substitutes for temporarily absent Plant Operators, and (3) to provide skill enhancement opportunities for custodial employees.
The following procedures apply to the program:
  1. The Plant Operator Trainee Program is by application only. Applicants must have the following minimum qualifications:
    1. High School Diploma, G.E.D.
    2. Two (2) years of current experience as a custodian in a school environment or comparable experience in business and industry
    3. Working knowledge or ability to understand heating, ventilation and air conditioning units
    4. Ability to perform preventative maintenance tasks
  2. Applicants having the minimum qualifications listed above will be given consideration for admission to the Program based on the following:
    1. A satisfactory score on the written Plant Operator test (SAGE) (must be on file or to schedule a SAGE test, call 485-3400.)
    2. The recommendation of their current supervisor, or if not presently employed, their most recent employer (no disciplinary action in last 12 months)
    3. The recommendation of an interview committee

3. Applicants selected for participation in the program, will be classified as Custodian Floater and placed at the appropriate salary grade for the position. They will receive five (5) days of classroom and training laboratory instruction. Those successfully completing this five (5) days of instruction will then be provided sixty (60) days of on-the-job Plant Operator training, thirty (30) days of which will be in elementary schools and thirty (30) days in secondary schools. All training assignments will be made by Housekeeping Services.
4. At the end of this sixty (60) day training period, successful Trainees will return to a custodial assignment or remain in the custodial pool until they are selected for a permanent position. Unsuccessful Trainees will be returned either to their previous assignment or to the first available custodial vacancy. Custodians that have completed the Plant Operator Trainee Program, but are not selected for a Plant Operator position within two (2) years of completing the training will be required to reapply to the plant Operator trainee program.

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