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Plant Operator Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ExxonMobil

Co-Op Operator (Beaumont)

Beaumont, TX · On-site

... A Plant Operator Intern/Co-op is responsible for the safe, efficient performance of work required to operate the processing units and related facilities and to maintain these areas. Interns/Co-ops ...

ExxonMobil

Co-Op Operator (Beaumont)

Beaumont, TX

... A Plant Operator Intern/Co-op is responsible for the safe, efficient performance of work required to operate the processing units and related facilities and to maintain these areas. Interns/Co-ops ...

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How much do plant operator internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator internship in the United States is $19.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Plant Operator Intern, you need a basic understanding of mechanical systems, safety protocols, and process operations, typically supported by coursework in engineering or industrial technology. Familiarity with control systems, monitoring equipment, and safety certifications such as OSHA training are often required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help interns adapt quickly and contribute to operational efficiency. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations while learning and supporting experienced operators.

What is the difference between Plant Operator Internship vs Plant Operator?

AspectPlant Operator InternshipPlant Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some technical training or certifications preferredRequires relevant certifications (e.g., OSHA, technical licenses), experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused environment in industrial plants or power plantsFull-time, operational environment managing plant equipment and processes
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs offered by power plants, manufacturing facilities, or water treatment plantsFull-time roles in similar industries, responsible for plant operations and safety

The main difference is that a Plant Operator Internship is a training position designed to develop skills and gain experience, while a Plant Operator is a full-time role requiring more experience and certifications to manage plant operations independently.

What kinds of hands-on experience can I expect during a Plant Operator Internship?

As a Plant Operator Intern, you can expect to gain practical experience by assisting with equipment monitoring, routine inspections, and basic maintenance tasks under the supervision of experienced operators. Interns often shadow team members to learn control room operations, safety protocols, and troubleshooting procedures in real-time. This role typically involves working both on the plant floor and in technical environments, providing valuable exposure to operational workflows and teamwork. These experiences help interns develop a strong understanding of daily plant processes and prepare for future full-time roles in plant operations.

What does a Plant Operator Intern do?

A Plant Operator Intern assists in the daily operations of industrial plants, such as water treatment facilities, power plants, or manufacturing plants. Their responsibilities typically include monitoring equipment, recording data, assisting with routine maintenance, and ensuring operations run smoothly and safely. Interns learn to follow safety protocols, troubleshoot minor issues, and support experienced plant operators. This internship provides hands-on experience and foundational knowledge for a career as a plant operator.
More about Plant Operator Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Plant Operator Internship jobs? Cities with the most Plant Operator Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Plant Operator Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Plant Operator Internship jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Plant Operator Internship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Operator Internship jobs are:
Plant Operator Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator Internship job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 79% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,032 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Plant Operations Specialist (Without Certification)

City of Durham, NC

Durham, NC • On-site

$46K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Salary : $46,762.00 - $72,570.00 Annually
Location : 1615 Infinity Rd., Durham, NC
Job Type: Full time with benefits
Job Number: 26-05918
Department: Water Management
Opening Date: 05/11/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Position Description
Work, Serve, Thrive. With the City of Durham
Advance in your career while making a real difference in the community you serve.
Hiring Range: $46,762.00-$51,574.00
Work Day/Hours: 3rd Shift: 11P.M. - 7A.M., Monday - Friday
More than 300 talented, dedicated employees in the City of Durham's work to keep safe drinking water flowing throughout the City and manage wastewater effectively. We lead long-term water and wastewater planning and infrastructure development, regularly treat and test systems for environmental compliance, and engage the public in water conservation to ensure all of our customers have clean, safe water every time they turn on the tap. If you share our passion for managing vital water resources, bring your skills and talent to Durham!
Water Management seeks a water plant operator who will be primarily located at the Brown Water Treatment Plant. This job is subject to recall for weather related emergencies.
Operators are responsible for plant operations surrounding the treatment of water for the citizens of Durham. This includes operating, adjusting, and maintaining equipment, keeping detailed and accurate records, obeying plant procedures, monitoring operations, cleaning equipment, analyzing samples while practicing safety precautions at all times. You will also be responsible for elevated and ground storage tanks, and 3 pressure zones including the associated pump and storage facilities. This is a trainee position. Once certification is obtained, you will receive a promotion. Certification must be obtained within one year after employment has started.
Duties/Responsibilities
  • Assists with operating, adjusting, and maintaining equipment at an assigned water or wastewater facility; monitors physical plant operations by observing plant processes; monitors chemical feeds; collects and analyzes lab samples under close supervision; and complies with work safety rules and procedures.
  • Cleans and performs minor repairs on plant equipment; cleans assigned work areas; and receives and unloads chemicals.
  • Maintains records, logs, databases, documentation and online systems; enters and updates data to document maintenance; reviews and proofs records to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED, HiSET, TASC)
  • Six months of related experience (including internships and/or vocational education in water/wastewater treatment).
  • Must have a valid, unrestricted, North Carolina driver's license "or" if you currently have another state driver's license, must be willing and able to obtain a valid NC driver's license within 60 days of hire
  • Basic math & chemistry calculations to accurately read meters & charts, maintain required records, & interpret readings to make necessary adjustments to treatment processes
  • Make mixed arithmetic calculations involving multiplication, addition, subtraction, & division of whole numbers, decimals, & fractions
  • Must obtain NC Grade C Surface Water Treatment Certification within 1 year of hire

Additional Preferred Skills
  • OSHA: Confined Space, Lock Out/Tag Out, Blood-borne Pathogens, and more

Benefits - General Full-Time Employees
  • 12-13 paid holidays per year
  • 13 standard work days of vacation per year
  • 13 standard work days of sick leave per year, which accumulates indefinitely; sick leave may be used toward early retirement
  • 2 weeks paid military leave per year
  • Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental life insurance plans
  • State and City retirement plans
  • Short and long term disability plans
  • Paid temporary disability leave for specified conditions
  • City contribution of 13.6% into the N.C. State Retirement System
  • Paid funeral leave
  • Employee Assistance Program - personal and family counseling
  • Paid life insurance equal to annual salary
  • 48 hours for volunteer work each year*
  • 4 hours parental leave each year
  • Workman's Compensation Insurance
  • 457 Deferred Compensation Plans
Benefits - Part-Time (1,000 hours or more per year)
  • 401(k) retirement plan (5.0% of salary)
  • State retirement plan
Benefits Part-Time (Average 30 hours per week over 12 month period)
  • 401(k) retirement plan (5.0% of salary)
  • State retirement plan effective first day of the month following date of hire
  • Health insurance effective first day of the month following date of hire
  • Dental and life insurance, after one year of service
  • Pro-rated vacation, pro-rated sick, pro-rated floating holiday, parttime holiday pay (based on scheduled hours for that day) after one year of service

01
Where did you first hear about this opportunity?
  • City of Durham Website
  • Walk in
  • Job fair
  • Employee referral
  • Professional organization ***Please list the organization in "other" box below***
  • Internet posting ***Please list the specific web site in the "other" box below***
  • Craig's List
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • GlassDoor
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Monster.com
  • Indeed.com
  • Employment Security Commission
  • Magazine/Newspaper
  • Other

02
If you listed "other" above please give specific web site, organization, or publication.
03
Please select your highest level of COMPLETED education.
  • Less than a High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED, HiSET, TASC)
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent (GED, HiSET, TASC)
  • Associates Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree
  • PhD or Juris Doctorate

04
How many years of related experience do you have? (Including internships and/or vocational education in water/wastewater treatment)
  • No related experience
  • Less than 6 months of related experience
  • 6 months but less than 2 years related experience
  • 2 years but less than 5 years related experience
  • 5 or more years related experience

05
Do you have a valid, unrestricted, North Carolina driver's license? (If you have a valid license from a State other than North Carolina, you must be willing and able to obtain a valid, unrestricted NC driver's license within 60 days of hire).
  • I have a valid, unrestricted NC driver's license.
  • I have a valid license from another State and I am willing to obtain a valid, unrestricted NC driver's license within 60 days.
  • I do not have a valid, unrestricted driver's license.

06
Do you have a NC Grade C Surface Water Treatment Certification?
  • Yes
  • No, but I AM willing and able to obtain a NC Grade C Surface Water Treatment Certification within 1 year of start date
  • No, but I am NOT willing or able to obtain a NC Grade C Surface Water Treatment Certification within 1 year of start date

07
Are you able to make mixed arithmetic calculations involving multiplication, addition, subtraction, & division of whole numbers, decimals, & fractions?
  • Yes
  • No

08
Are you able to perform basic math & chemistry calculations to accurately read meters & charts, maintain required records, & interpret readings to make necessary adjustments to treatment processes?
  • Yes
  • No

09
Are you willing and able to work a monthly weekend shift on a rotating schedule and be readily available by phone with ability to work stand-by/recall when needed?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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