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Plant Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Last Energy

Plant Operations

Bryan, TX · On-site

Last Energy is seeking Plant Operations professionals to lead day-to-day operations of a Last Energy nuclear facility and be accountable for safe, reliable, and compliant plant operations. The role ...

Last Energy

Plant Operations

Bryan, TX

Last Energy is seeking Plant Operations professionals to lead day-to-day operations of a Last Energy nuclear facility and be accountable for safe, reliable, and compliant plant operations. The role ...

Last Energy

Plant Operations

Bryan, TX · On-site

Last Energy is seeking Plant Operations professionals to lead day-to-day operations of a Last Energy nuclear facility and be accountable for safe, reliable, and compliant plant operations. The role ...

Oceans Healthcare

Director, Plant Operations

Waco, TX · On-site

The Director Plant Operations is to provide leadership to the Plant Operations Department at the facility by actively directing and supporting the Plant Operations Departments at each hospital with ...

HiFyve

Plant Operations Manager

Richmond, IN

$115K - $130K/yr

HiFyve is hiring a Plant Operations Manager in the Food & Beverage Manufacturing industry in Richmond, IN! Salary: $115,000-$130,000/year + 10% Bonus Shift: Days (Leadership role with flexibility to ...

H.M. Holloway

Plant Operations Supervisor

Lost Hills, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

The Plant Operations Supervisor will be responsible for overseeing daily operations, ensuring the efficient and safe processing of materials, and maintaining compliance with all regulatory and ...

Benedictine

Plant Operations Supervisor

Lamoure, ND · On-site

The Plant Operations Supervisor is responsible for the supervision and coordination of plant operations and maintenance. Manages the selection, training, development, and performance of assigned ...

Dunkin

Plant Operations Manager

Ocean City, MD

Our Plant Operations Manager plays a vital role in kitchen operations by managing production and ensuring quality control. Key Responsibilities: * Monitoring and supervising production * Any other ...

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Plant Operations information

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$30K

$106.8K

$173K

How much do plant operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant operations in the United States is $106,759.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $133,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Plant Operations?

Plant Operations refers to the management and oversight of the daily functions and maintenance of industrial, manufacturing, or facility plants. This role involves ensuring that machinery, equipment, and systems run efficiently and safely, often including responsibilities like scheduling maintenance, supervising staff, managing budgets, and complying with safety regulations. Plant Operations professionals are essential for optimizing production, minimizing downtime, and keeping the facility running smoothly. They work closely with engineers, technicians, and other departments to maintain operational excellence.

What do plant operations do?

Plant operations professionals oversee the daily functions of manufacturing or processing facilities, ensuring equipment runs efficiently and safety protocols are followed. They monitor production processes, troubleshoot issues, and maintain machinery, often using tools like control systems and requiring safety certifications. Their work ensures the plant operates smoothly and meets quality standards.

What exactly does a plant operator do?

A plant operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring machinery and equipment in industrial plants such as power plants, manufacturing facilities, or water treatment plants. They perform routine inspections, adjust controls, troubleshoot issues, and ensure safety and efficiency of operations, often using control panels and instrumentation. Certification and knowledge of safety protocols are typically required for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Plant Operations professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in Plant Operations, you need strong knowledge of facility management, equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and typically a degree or certification in engineering, facilities management, or a related field. Familiarity with computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), building automation controls, and compliance standards such as OSHA is often required. Effective problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help professionals coordinate teams and respond swiftly to operational issues. These competencies are essential for ensuring plant safety, efficiency, and minimal downtime.

What is the difference between Plant Operations vs Equipment Operator?

AspectPlant OperationsEquipment Operator
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or degrees in industrial technology or engineeringRequires specific equipment operation certifications or licenses, such as CDL or heavy machinery licenses
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, or power plantsConstruction sites, factories, or industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, energy, and processing industriesCommon in construction, mining, and manufacturing sectors
Job FocusOversees overall plant operations, process control, and system managementOperates specific machinery or equipment within the plant or site

While both roles are essential in industrial settings, Plant Operations professionals focus on managing entire processes and systems, whereas Equipment Operators specialize in operating specific machinery. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What is the highest paying job with plants?

In plant operations, the highest paying roles are often plant managers or plant directors, who oversee entire facilities and require extensive experience, technical knowledge, and leadership skills. These positions can earn six-figure salaries, especially in large industrial or manufacturing plants, and may require certifications such as PMP or specific technical licenses.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of plant operations, high-paying roles such as plant managers or operations directors can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in large industrial or manufacturing facilities. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced management skills, and often involve overseeing large teams and budgets. Compensation at this level may also include bonuses, profit sharing, or stock options.

What are some typical challenges faced in a Plant Operations role, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in Plant Operations often encounter challenges such as equipment maintenance issues, meeting production targets under tight deadlines, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Effective management of these challenges involves proactive maintenance scheduling, clear communication with team members, and continuous training on safety protocols. Collaboration with other departments—such as quality control, engineering, and logistics—is also key to quickly resolving issues and keeping operations running smoothly.
More about Plant Operations jobs
What cities are hiring for Plant Operations jobs? Cities with the most Plant Operations job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operations jobs? The most popular types of Plant Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Plant Operations jobs? States with the most job openings for Plant Operations jobs include:
Plant Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operations job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,759 per year, or $51.3 per hour.
Plant Operations

Plant Operations

Last Energy

Bryan, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Last Energy is seeking Plant Operations professionals to lead day-to-day operations of a Last Energy nuclear facility and be accountable for safe, reliable, and compliant plant operations.

The role works on design intent, safety basis requirements, and operating procedures into disciplined operations, ensures operational readiness, and drives continuous improvement across safety, reliability, and cost. The position works closely with engineering, maintenance, and corporate leadership while maintaining clear authority and decision-making at the site level.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
  • Be on call 24/7 and accountable for overall facility operation
  • Oversee test campaigns in collaboration with engineering team in Austin
  • Oversee installation of new equipment, including equipment needed for phase transitions with the Department of Energy (DOE)
  • Manage on-site staff and contractors
  • Host and manage site visits and tours for investors, DOE, Texas A&M, and other stakeholders.
  • Member of the Joint Test Group (setup to manage the transition from construction to operation)
  • Preparing for and overseeing DOE readiness reviews
  • General regulatory compliance, including OSHA and DOE-approved Technical Safety Requirements
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, or a related technical field; equivalent experience may be considered
  • Demonstrated experience leading a research and development facility and/or small industrial plant
  • Strong understanding of industrial safety frameworks, Conduct of Operations, and operational readiness
  • Proven ability to lead teams with clear authority and accountability in safety-critical environments
  • Experience supporting startup, restart, or first-of-a-kind facilities strongly preferred
  • Sound judgment under pressure with a demonstrated commitment to conservative operational decision-making