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Plant Lab Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Steam Plant Operator

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$40/hr

Monitors the plant control system via computer screens. * Starting and stopping plant equipment as ... lab technicians will be considered eligible by the company for a Shift Operator position.

Steam Plant Mechanic

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$40/hr

Description The Class C Steam Plant Mechanic will be a key member of Seattle Plant Production crew ... lab technicians will be considered eligible by the company for a Shift Operator position

WWTP Regulatory Supervisor

Edmonds, WA ยท On-site

$114K - $153K/yr

The plant maintains an accredited laboratory where the chemical, physical, and bacteriological ... Supervise lab staff and sampling personnel, ensuring Standard Methods compliance, accurate testing ...

Quality Technician (Union)

Bellevue, WA

$20.25 - $27.25/hr

... Plant Quality Assurance * 5+ years of production experience may substitute for the QA experience or demonstrated proficiency in Quality Systems. * Familiarity with lab safety and handling of ...

Quality Technician (Union)

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $27.25/hr

... Plant Quality Assurance * 5+ years of production experience may substitute for the QA experience or demonstrated proficiency in Quality Systems. * Familiarity with lab safety and handling of ...

Quality Technician (Union)

Bellevue, WA ยท On-site

$20.25 - $27.25/hr

... Plant Quality Assurance * 5+ years of production experience may substitute for the QA experience or demonstrated proficiency in Quality Systems. * Familiarity with lab safety and handling of ...

Materials Engineer

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$159K - $208K/yr

Helion is continuing to iterate and on the path to the world's first fusion power plant, Orion ... You will own well defined workstreams in the lab: designing and running experiments, developing and ...

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Plant Lab information

See Seattle, WA salary details

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How much do plant lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant lab in Seattle, WA is $20.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a plant lab, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a plant lab often encounter challenges such as maintaining sterile conditions to prevent contamination, managing multiple experiments simultaneously, and adapting protocols to meet specific research needs. Effective time management and attention to detail are essential to ensure the accuracy and reliability of results. Collaborating closely with colleagues and regularly updating lab protocols can help address these challenges, fostering a supportive environment where team members can share troubleshooting tips and best practices.

What is the difference between Plant Lab vs Plant Technician?

AspectPlant LabPlant Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in biology, chemistry, or related fieldOften requires technical certifications or associate degrees in plant technology
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting focused on research and analysisIndustrial or manufacturing plant environment focused on maintenance and operation
Industry UsageUsed in research institutions, biotech companies, and quality control labsCommon in manufacturing plants, power plants, and industrial facilities

While both roles involve working with plants, a Plant Lab primarily focuses on research, testing, and analysis in a laboratory setting, often requiring scientific degrees. In contrast, a Plant Technician works directly in industrial environments, maintaining and operating plant equipment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their skills and interests.

What is a plant lab?

A plant lab is a specialized facility where scientists and technicians study, grow, and experiment with plants under controlled conditions. These labs are used for research in areas such as plant genetics, physiology, biotechnology, and disease resistance. Plant labs often contain equipment for tissue culture, genetic modification, and analysis of plant growth. The work done in a plant lab can contribute to advances in agriculture, environmental science, and food production.

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

To excel as a Plant Lab Technician, you need a solid background in plant biology, laboratory techniques, and often a degree in biology, horticulture, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, sterile techniques, and data recording systems such as LIMS is typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate experimentation, reliable results, and efficient teamwork in plant research and production environments.
What job categories do people searching Plant Lab jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Lab jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Infographic showing various Plant Lab job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,170 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Steam Plant Operator

Orion Talent

Seattle, WA โ€ข On-site

$40/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Description
The Operator will work with the Shift Engineer in ensuring the safe uninterrupted operation of the company's energy production facilities.
Essential Job Functions
  • The Operator will perform all duties as assigned by the Shift Engineer.
  • Monitors the plant control system via computer screens.
  • Starting and stopping plant equipment as needed; diagnosing and correcting problems in equipment and auxiliaries; changing oil, lubricating bearings and filling station logs.
  • Performance of any maintenance work will be secondary to overall plant operations.
  • Perform other work assigned of equal or lower classifications, if qualified.

Must-Have Skills, and Experience
  • Applicants shall have sufficient experience and ability to qualify for work as a Shift Operator within 6-months.
  • Individuals having served in the United States Navy for a period of 4 (four) or more years as boiler technician, machinist's mates, or engineering lab technicians will be considered eligible by the company for a Shift Operator position.
  • Applicants must pass a written examination covering all aspects of plant operations at the company's facility. Exam will be prepared by the company.
  • Applicants must pass an oral systems checkout review board conducted by the company. This review board shall consist of at least one representative from the company and the union.
  • Applicants must be able to sketch from memory the primary piping, valves, equipment and any other essential elements of all plant mechanical systems and should have a working knowledge of the key normal operating parameters of the production facilities.
  • Equipment operation: monitor the control operations of the boilers and other equipment to produce steam efficiently
  • Process monitoring: continuously monitor and analyze various parameters such as pressure temperature and flow rates to optimize steam production and distribution
  • Troubleshooting: identify and troubleshoot malfunctions or regularities and equipment adjusting or repairs as necessary to maintain smooth operations
  • Routine maintenance: Conducting maintenance tasks inspections and preventing equipment and keeping it in good working condition and preventing unexpected breakdowns
  • Record keeping: maintain detailed logs and records of operational parameters maintenance activities and any incidents for documentation and analysis purposes
  • Communication: coordinate effectively with other plant operators' maintenance personnel and management to ensure seamless operations and address any issues properly
  • Environmental compliance: adhere to environmental regulations and guidelines to minimize the impact of the plant's operations on the surrounding environment
  • Training: stay updated on industry best practices attending training sessions ensuring knowledge and skills are up to date and to maintain equipment effectively
  • Strong problem-solving skills with attention to detail
  • Demonstrated strong communication skills; both written and verbal
  • Self-motivated and proactive, able to work as a team player
  • Ability to develop and maintain good working relationships internally and externally
  • Ability to work in a dynamic, complex, fast-paced environment, to adapt quickly and to manage changing priorities

Must-Have Experience, and Education:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Individuals having served in the United States Navy for a period of 4 (four) or more years as boiler technician, machinist's mates, or engineering lab technicians will be considered eligible by the company for a Shift Operator position.
  • 3 years of Boiler or Steam Plant experience. Ability to obtain a City of Seattle Boiler Operator Grade 3 License

Physical Demand
  • Requires individuals to bend, kneel, crawl, stoop and stand in confined spaces with elevated temperatures.
  • Requires sitting at computer screens for long periods of time.

Work Environment
  • Presence of high-pressure steam, water and other elements.

Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)
The Business has a consistent and dedicated focus on a proactive safety culture. HSE is the responsibility of everyone in the organization. Your accountability for HSE also includes:
  • Promote, ensure, and maintain a safe and healthy environment for your fellow workers and yourself so that everyone goes home injury-free,
  • Work in compliance with the provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Industrial Regulations, Environmental Protection Act and Regulations and HSE policies, programs, and procedures,
  • Responsible for identifying and reporting workplace HSE hazards and concerns to your supervisor immediately and providing solutions (if aware of any) to address these concerns as requested, and
  • Immediate reporting of all work-related injuries/illness to your supervisor