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Plant Maintenance Operator Jobs in Raritan, IL (NOW HIRING)

Central Stone Company has an immediate full-time opening for a Plant Operator/Maintenance based at our Tennessee plant in the Colchester, IL area. May be required to work some shifts at our location ...

Plant Operator

Wever, IA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

You will work closely with other operators, maintenance personnel, and engineers to ensure the ... Monitor and control plant units to ensure optimal performance. Safely startup, operate, and ...

Plant Manager

West Burlington, IA · On-site

$145K - $180K/yr

This leader will oversee production, packaging, maintenance, quality, sanitation, warehouse, and ... Develop and manage operating plans, budgets, capital expenditures, labor costs and production ...

Loader Operator

Wever, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

Your Job Koch Fertilizer, LLC is looking for a Loader Operator to join our Plant Operations team in ... Safely and efficiently load trucks and railcars with fertilizer products while maintaining ...

Maintenance Mechanic

Macomb, IL · On-site

$23.30 - $32.54/hr

Maintain and repair plant equipment, machinery, and systems. Service, install, and repair plant ... Language - Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

Maintenance Electrician

Macomb, IL · On-site

$23.30 - $32.54/hr

Support the Plant safety programs/goals within the scope of the job. * Regular and predictable ... Language - Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance ...

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Plant Maintenance Operator information

See Raritan, IL salary details

$13

$21

$37

How much do plant maintenance operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant maintenance operator in Raritan, IL is $21.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plant maintenance operator?

Plant Maintenance Operators are professionals responsible for ensuring the proper functioning, upkeep, and repair of machinery and equipment in industrial plants or manufacturing facilities. Their duties often include inspecting equipment, performing routine maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and responding to breakdowns to minimize downtime. They play a key role in maintaining safety standards, improving efficiency, and supporting the overall operations of the plant. Plant Maintenance Operators may work with mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic systems depending on the facility's needs.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a plant maintenance operator?

To thrive as a Plant Maintenance Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, troubleshooting skills, and typically a high school diploma or technical certification in industrial maintenance or a related field. Familiarity with CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems), power tools, and diagnostic equipment is often required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient plant operations and minimize equipment downtime, directly impacting productivity and safety.

What are common challenges faced by plant maintenance operators, and how can they be addressed?

Plant Maintenance Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected equipment breakdowns, managing time-sensitive repairs, and maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced environment. To address these issues, operators benefit from strong problem-solving skills, ongoing technical training, and effective communication with other team members, including engineers and supervisors. Staying organized and following preventive maintenance schedules can also help minimize unplanned downtime and ensure smooth plant operations.

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

AspectPlant Maintenance OperatorMaintenance Technician
CertificationsOften requires technical diplomas or certifications in industrial maintenanceTypically requires similar certifications, such as HVAC, electrical, or mechanical certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, power plantsFactories, industrial sites, equipment repair shops
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing, energy, and processing industriesUsed across various industries including manufacturing, facilities management, and utilities
Job FocusMonitoring, operating, and maintaining plant equipmentRepairing, troubleshooting, and maintaining machinery and systems

While both roles involve maintaining industrial equipment, Plant Maintenance Operators focus on operating and monitoring plant systems, whereas Maintenance Technicians primarily perform repairs and troubleshooting. Both roles require technical certifications and are vital in industrial settings, often overlapping in skills and work environments.

Is being a plant maintenance operator worth it?

A plant maintenance operator is responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining industrial equipment to ensure smooth operations. The role often requires technical skills, safety training, and sometimes certifications, with typical schedules including shifts that may involve nights or weekends. It can offer stable employment and opportunities for skill development in industrial settings.

Where do plant maintenance operators make the most money?

Plant maintenance operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong manufacturing or industrial sector, such as areas with large chemical, oil, or power plants. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in facilities with complex equipment can also increase earning potential.
Infographic showing various Plant Maintenance Operator job openings in Raritan, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,308 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Plant Operator/Maintenance

Colchester, IL • On-site

Central Stone
201 - 500 employees

$22.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Here at Central Stone, we have spent the last 125+ years working to be the best at what we do. Through our limestone aggregate products, we provide the foundation to connect people with their friends, families, and work. Although most don't realize it, our products are used to build the homes, roads, and bridges that people throughout the Midwest use every day of their lives!
Central Stone Company has an immediate full-time opening for a Plant Operator/Maintenance based at our Tennessee plant in the Colchester, IL area. May be required to work some shifts at our location in Carthage, IL. Candidates must be dependable and available to work overtime as needed. This is a union position with Local 649.
Plant Operator candidate requirements:
  • Safety-Focused
  • Strong mechanical aptitude
  • Ability to perform rigorous physical activities in all weather conditions
  • Self-motivated with a solid work ethic

Our ideal candidate would be experienced in maintaining and operating heavy equipment in a mining or construction environment.
Plant Operator major responsibilities include:
  • Follow all safety and environmental rules, regulations and procedures as set forth by company policies and MSHA
  • Operate and monitor all heavy equipment and production area safely and efficiently
  • Perform preventive maintenance and pre-shift inspections; repair and/or clean equipment as needed
  • Communicate with plant management team on all safety, maintenance, and production needs
  • Perform other tasks as assigned by supervisor

What You'll Get:
As a member of Local 649, you will get:
  • Operator union rate of $22.54 (.50 less per hour during 90 day probation)
  • Medical Insurance Plan through Central Stone
  • IRA retirement fund
  • Paid Holidays
  • Vacation Plan

This is a great time to join our team as a Plant Operator. If this description sounds like you, apply today!
Pre-employment physical, drug screen and background check required, as well as continuous random drug screens throughout employment. Central Stone Company is an EEO/Affirmative Action employer for all including Women, Minorities, Veterans and Individuals with disabilities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
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.