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Plant Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Minnkota Power Cooperative

$74 - $134/hr

Plant Engineering/Reliability Requisition Number : PLANT001294 * Posted : August 14, 2026 * Full-Time * On-site Locations Showing 1 location Center, ND 58530, USA Description With Great Opportunities ...

Westinghouse Electric Company LLC

$90 - $96/hr

Our client is seeking a Plant Engineer to provide engineering support for capital project execution at the Fort St. Vrain Power Plant. This is a 1-year contract role with potential for extension. You ...

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

$95 - $140/hr

As the leader of the maintenance and engineering department in a fast-paced plant, you'll be at the forefront of maintaining top-tier building and equipment performance. By reducing mechanical ...

SONOCO CANADA

$105 - $118/hr

Reporting to the Plant Manager, the Plant Engineer is responsible for achieving the highest level of reliability for plant equipment through committed support for the Sonoco Performance System (SPS ...

Ziply Fiber

$70 - $110/hr

The Outside Plant Engineer is a subject matter expert for all technical aspects of outside plant facilities and associated work such as cable sizing, cable counts, cable records and permitting for ...

EMP Trust HR Solutions

$100 - $150/hr

The Plant Engineering Manager will direct engineering and maintenance teams within the rice milling operations. This position will work with the operations team to keep processes efficient while ...

New

Smithfield Foods, Inc.

$120 - $180/hr

As the leader of the maintenance and engineering department in a fast-paced plant, you'll be at the forefront of maintaining top-tier building and equipment performance. By reducing mechanical ...

New

Perdue Farms

Senior Plant Engineer

Cromwell, KY · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

As a Senior Plant Engineer, you will guide engineering and operational initiatives that maximize equipment uptime, improve system reliability, and support production goals through the application of ...

Perdue Farms

Senior Plant Engineer

Cromwell, KY

$84K - $115K/yr

As a Senior Plant Engineer, you will guide engineering and operational initiatives that maximize equipment uptime, improve system reliability, and support production goals through the application of ...

Perdue Farms

Senior Plant Engineer

Cromwell, KY · On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

As a Senior Plant Engineer, you will guide engineering and operational initiatives that maximize equipment uptime, improve system reliability, and support production goals through the application of ...

Trinity River Authority

$85 - $105/hr

POSITION SUMMARY This position involves professional-level engineering work in the operations and maintenance function of the plant. Ensures current maintenance and operation procedures are adequate ...

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All JobsPlant Engineer JobsPlant Engineer Jobs in Kentucky

Plant Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$36K

$86.7K

$124.2K

How much do plant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant engineer in Kentucky is $86,743.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,200.00 and $104,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plant engineer?

A Plant Engineer is a professional responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and improvement of manufacturing or industrial plants. They work to ensure that all plant systems, equipment, and processes run efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations. Plant Engineers often handle troubleshooting, project management, and the implementation of new technologies to increase productivity. Their role may also involve supervising maintenance staff and coordinating with other departments to optimize plant performance.

What does a plant engineer do?

As a production plant engineer, you work in a manufacturing facility to ensure that daily operations run smoothly, with a focus on the equipment and machinery. Your responsibilities include designing new systems or equipment, directing plant personnel in proper methods and procedures of these systems and equipment, and executing or overseeing preventive maintenance and repair. Additional job duties may involve planning and supervising engineering projects, designing manufacturing equipment layouts, and checking for safety and environmental compliance. The main qualification for a career in plant engineering is a bachelor’s degree in industrial design or a sub-specialty of engineering, such as chemical, mechanical, nuclear, or electrical engineering. Professional certification, like the certified plant engineer (CPE) designation from the Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE) prove your skills, and employers may prefer these qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plant engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, PLC systems, and compliance with industry standards or certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) is typically expected. Strong communication, project management, and teamwork skills help you excel in coordinating with maintenance teams and other departments. These skills ensure efficient plant operations, reduced downtime, and the successful implementation of engineering solutions.

What are some common challenges a plant engineer faces during equipment upgrades or maintenance shutdowns?

Plant Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple departments to minimize production downtime, managing tight project schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations during equipment upgrades or maintenance shutdowns. Effective communication and planning are crucial, as these projects often require collaboration with outside contractors, vendors, and internal teams. Additionally, Plant Engineers must anticipate potential technical issues and ensure that all work is completed within budget and to specification.

What is the difference between Plant Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPlant EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, certifications like PE or EIT often preferredBachelor's in mechanical engineering, PE license optional
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, power plantsDesign firms, manufacturing, R&D labs, industrial settings
Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing, energy, and processing industriesUsed across various sectors including automotive, aerospace, and energy

While both roles require engineering knowledge, Plant Engineers focus on maintaining and improving plant operations, whereas Mechanical Engineers often work on designing and developing mechanical systems. The roles overlap in credentials and industry settings, but their primary responsibilities differ.

How much do plant engineers make in the US?

Plant engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Salaries can vary based on certifications, technical skills, and the size of the facility they work in.
More about Plant Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Engineer jobs in Kentucky?

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

What are popular job titles related to Plant Engineer jobs in Kentucky?

For Plant Engineer jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Plant Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Plant Engineer jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Plant Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Plant Engineer jobs in KY?

For Plant Engineer jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Plant Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,743 per year, or $41.7 per hour.

Plant Engineer

On-site

Minnkota Power Cooperative
Utilities • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Minnkota Power Cooperativeexternal

$74 - $134/hr

Other

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

Job description

Job Category: Plant Engineering/Reliability

Requisition Number: PLANT001294

  • Posted : August 14, 2026
  • Full-Time
  • On-site
Locations

Showing 1 location

Center, ND 58530, USA

Description

With Great Opportunities and Benefits

Plant Engineer

Minnkota Power is seeking qualified candidates for a Plant Engineer with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology at the Milton R. Young Station located near Center, ND. The Milton R. Young Station is a two-unit coal-fired power plant, providing a stable energy source for our cooperative member-owners. The station is located 35 miles from Bismarck, North Dakota, a growing and progressive city with many recreational opportunities.

  • Coordinate the preparation of construction drawings and specifications for plant process equipment.
  • Design and installation of new and replacement equipment.
  • Work with consultants and contractors as necessary to accomplish engineering objectives.
  • Troubleshoot existing systems with operations and maintenance to resolve safety or production problems with engineered solutions.
  • Identify technical and operational training needs and initiate action on capital and O & M Projects.
  • Monitor work activity to ensure it is being done in a safe manner and in compliance with current regulations.
  • Assist in record keeping of system work order files, standard drawing and data files.
  • Analyze plant data and provide recommendations.
  • Monitor and recommend new technology which could improve the efficiency, reliability, availability, and longevity of the power plant.
  • Provide engineering support to other departments as required.

Position requires a degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology. Previous experience in a power plant setting is preferred but not necessary.

The salary range for Plant Engineer I begins at $74,130 per year; Plant Engineer II salary range begins at $95,226; Plant Engineer III salary range begins at $106,594; Plant Engineer IV salary range beings at $119,579; and Senior Plant Engineer salary range begins at $133,647. Appropriate pay will be determined based on candidate's skills, education, and previous relevant experience.

Minnkota Power Cooperative makes career growth and development a priority by creating a challenging and rewarding work environment. For more information regarding this job and our online application go to www.Minnkota.com . Resumes will not be accepted without a completed application.

Minnkota Power Cooperative is an EEO/AAP/Female/Minority/Disabled/Vets Employer

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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