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Plant Operations Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

This position will drive, execute, and oversee the daily plant operations and ensure timely completion of maintenance work orders, system repairs and downtime mitigation. This role will develop new ...

Plant Operations Manager

Richmond, IN · On-site

$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 ...

This position will drive, execute, and oversee the daily plant operations and ensure timely completion of maintenance work orders, system repairs and downtime mitigation. This role will develop new ...

Plant Operations Manager

Ludlow, MA · On-site

$120 - $165/hr

We are currently seeking a Plant Operations Manager at our Stony Brook Energy Center. This person will be responsible for the safe, reliable and efficient operation of the Stony Brook Energy Center ...

Plant Operations Manager

Chino, CA · On-site

$90 - $117/hr

## Plant Operations ManagerApplylocations: Ziegenfelder- Chinotime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Yesterdayjob requisition id: R-2588**Plant Operations Manager****Location: Chino, California****Salary ...

Plant Operations Manager

Chino, CA · On-site

$90 - $117/hr

## Plant Operations ManagerApplylocations: Ziegenfelder- Chinotime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Yesterdayjob requisition id: R-2588**Plant Operations Manager****Location: Chino, California****Salary ...

Plant Operations Manager Location: Chino, California Salary Range: 90k - 117k POSITION As the Plant Operations Manager at our Chino, California location, you will lead, direct and oversee all daily ...

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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 Sep 4, 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 is 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in plant operations?

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 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.

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.

Is plant operations a good career?

Plant operations is a stable career that involves managing and maintaining industrial facilities, often requiring technical skills and certifications. It offers opportunities for advancement, competitive salaries, and the chance to work in manufacturing, energy, or processing industries. Job stability and growth depend on industry demand and individual skills.
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:

Infographic showing various Plant Operations job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,759 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Plant Operations Manager

Portland General Electric

Clatskanie, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Manage the day-to-day operations of a power generation plant to ensure safe, reliable, and economical performance within regulatory requirements.

  • Oversee and ensure the safety, effectiveness, and compliance of plant operations, including managing operational procedures, resolving issues, and maintaining standards.

  • Develop, implement, and monitor emergency procedures and safety practices, including staff training and emergency response planning.


Portland General Electric rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

At PGE, our work involves dreaming about, planning for, and realizing a smarter, cleaner, more enduring Oregon neighborhood. Its core to our DNA and we haven't stopped since we started in 1888. We energize lives, strengthen communities and drive advancements in energy that promote social, economic and environmental progress. We're always on the lookout for people passionate about leading and being a part of teams that are advancing innovative clean energy solutions that are also affordable and accessible to all.
Manager, Plant Operations
Beaver, Clatskanie, OR
In this role, you'll ensure the safe, reliable and efficient operation of PGE's power generating fleet and generation plants.
Key Job Information:
Manager, Plant Operations 6611
Career Level: M2 Manager
As a manager, you'll manage professional associates and/or supervisors. Is accountable for the performance and results of a team. You'll adapt departmental plans and priorities to address resource and operational challenges. Your decisions are guided by policies, resources and business plan; receives moderate guidance from manager. You'll also provides subject matter guidance to associates, colleagues and/or customers.
Key Responsibilities:
Plant Operations Management:
Manages a team of plant operations staff responsible for operating energy generation and ancillary facilities (e.g., water treatment plant); provides technical management for the team, ensuring that objectives are met and all relevant standards/procedures and regulations (environmental and safety) are followed; responsible for the safe execution of work; ensures that operational problems are identified and resolved; ensures that operational procedures and working practices are current and fit for the purpose.
Manage Operations:
Manages day-to-day operations of a power generation plant safely, reliably and economically within the constraints of complex regulatory requirements; ensures Power Operations' needs for plant output are met; works with other functional areas and plant management to balance goals and costs to achieve best results; develops, administers and enforces procedures and policies for plant operations; ensures that plant maintenance activities meet the priorities of plant operations.
Train Staff:
Responsible for effectiveness of the operations training program.
Emergency Planning/Response:
Assists plant manager with implementation of an emergency action plan; develops and maintains procedures for effective plant operation, testing, startup and shutdown and for operating equipment in emergency situations; leads and/or participates in periodic staff training in carrying out the plans for the plant as it relates to floods, earthquakes, fire, equipment or structural failures and other emergencies.
Safety Leadership:
Promotes, trains team members and monitors safety practices.
Financial Management:
Monitors and manages expenditures, ensuring that all financial targets are met, and examines any areas where budgets/expenditures vary from plan; assists with the definition and operation of effective financial controls and decision making.
Resourcing:
Oversees resourcing decisions and planning for team; partners with HR in the definition of jobs, recruitment, evaluation and selection processes.
Professional Development:
Reviews organizational development needs and training strategies to determine required learning and development outcomes for the team; provides guidance in the creation of development plans; monitors ongoing progress and provides coaching and mentoring and provides feedback; completes annual performance management reviews.
Education/Experience:
Education: Typically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical discipline or equivalent experience.
Experience: Typically eight or more years of progressively responsible experience in power plant operations, maintenance, engineering and related support activities or a related field and two years of management/supervisory experience preferred; prefer previous experience managing bargaining employees. Combined Cycle Power Plant experience desired.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
  • Advanced knowledge of plant systems and equipment.
  • Intermediate knowledge of company policies, objectives and procedures as they relate to plant operations.
  • Advanced knowledge and understanding of operations-specific metrics to monitor and manage plant performance.
  • Advanced knowledge of environmental requirements for operating the plant.
  • Advanced knowledge of the operating principles, running adjustments and capabilities of all plant machinery and equipment.
  • Advanced knowledge of root-cause analysis application techniques.
  • Intermediate knowledge of industry compliance requirements, standards and reporting requirements (such as OSHA, NERC, FERC, NEC, NESC, NFPA 70, etc.)
  • Intermediate knowledge of mechanical, electrical, water chemistry and/or controls and operational principles.
  • Intermediate knowledge of electrical transmission, distribution and protective devices.
  • Intermediate knowledge of labor relations, including retained management rights and applicable union contracts and local work rules.
  • Intermediate knowledge of budgetary and planning practices. Intermediate skills in computer systems, including Microsoft Office.
  • Advanced knowledge of plant operation.
  • Advanced knowledge of fundamental engineering/economic principles and concepts.

General Competencies:
  • Advanced analytical thinking skills.
  • Advanced decision-making skills.
  • Advanced interpersonal skills.
  • Working knowledge of the utility industry.
  • Advanced organization and prioritization skills.
  • Advanced problem-solving skills.
  • Advanced project management skills.
  • Advanced written/oral communication skills.
  • Intermediate organization management skills.
  • Intermediate resource management skills.
  • Ability to adhere to set response times, deadlines and time-sensitive tasks
  • Ability to follow accuracy standards
  • Ability to follow through on decision-making tasks
  • Ability to interact effectively and collaboratively within a team environment
  • Ability to communicate and problem solve when under stress
  • Ability to respond and adapt to frequent change
  • Ability to accept and demonstrate self-awareness when provided constructive feedback
  • Ability to discern feedback and acknowledge ownership of areas of improvement
  • Ability to avoid future mistakes by applying reasonable skills to new but similar work situations or tasks
  • Ability to successfully collaborate with peers, managers and others within the organization
  • Demonstrates sound memory
  • Ability to process new information to be applied consistently to work tasks

Leader Practices: Drives Results, Plans and Aligns, Decision Quality, Drives Engagement, Courage
Schedule/Attendance:
  • Ability to work long hours
  • Ability to work a variable schedule
  • Ability to report to work and perform work during periods of severe inclement weather
  • Ability to consistently meet attendance standards for regular, reliable, predictable, full-time attendance
  • Ability to work shift schedule
  • Ability to work on-call schedule

Physical Capabilities:
  • This position requires a valid driver's license and a history of safe driving practices
  • Frequent daily driving/travel/commute within the service territory
  • Occasional driving/travel/commute inside/outside the service territory
  • Computer use (use computer regularly for entire work shift)
  • Lifting/pushing/pulling: Up to 50 lbs.
  • Carrying: Up to 50 lbs.
  • Unstable surfaces requiring balance:
    • Elevated areas (i.e., catwalks, roofs and high buildings)
    • Confined spaces
    • Walking distances and surfaces (long distances and over rough, uneven or rocky surfaces)
    • Stairs (over 10 steps)
    • Ladders (over 10 rungs)

Environment: Plant
Actual total compensation, including a performance based incentive bonus, is commensurate with experience, skills, qualifications, education, training, and internal equity.
PGE believes in rewarding dedicated performance. We provide a total rewards package that is designed to reward your contributions to the company, and, at the same time, support your well-being and professional development, both now and into the future. To find out more, click here.
Join us today and power your potential!
Assisting with storms or other Company emergencies is a part of all positions at Portland General Electric.
PGE is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a workplace where employees feel connected, valued, and empowered to thrive. PGE will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
PGE does not discriminate on the basis of disability. We recognize individuals have a variety of abilities to offer and we believe there is much to value and celebrate by incorporating different abilities into the work we do. One very important way we live this out is in our application and interview process. We work hard to support individuals who may need an accommodation to fully participate in these processes. If you feel you may need an accommodation, or would like to request one, please notify the Recruiter associated with the job posting. You may also make this request by contacting talentacquisition@pgn.com or by calling 503-464-7250. The Recruiter will provide information and next steps for the accommodation process.
To be considered for this position, please complete the following employment application by the posting close date. Posting closes at midnight (Pacific Time) on the closing date below. If no date is listed, job is open until filled.

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