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Plant Operator Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Water Quality Operator

Daphne, AL · On-site

$18.36 - $47.57/hr

WATER QUALITY OPERATOR (PAY IS COMPENSABLE TO OPERATOR CERTIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE LEVEL) Daphne ... Must be able to operate various machinery, equipment and tools associated with plant operations ...

Plant Groundman

Laceys Spring, AL

$1.2K - $1.6K/wk

Light maintenance work and maintain the belt lines * Assist with plant operator duties as needed ... Complete equipment pre-shift report - if applicable * Assist other workers as needed or directed ...

Light maintenance work and maintain the belt lines * Assist with plant operator duties as needed ... Complete equipment pre-shift report - if applicable * Assist other workers as needed or directed ...

Advance the plant's operating capabilities through automation and lean processes. * Develop capabilities of frontline leadership through mentoring, training, and coaching. Education, Work Experience ...

Advance the plant's operating capabilities through automation and lean processes. * Develop capabilities of frontline leadership through mentoring, training, and coaching. Education, Work Experience ...

Advance the plant's operating capabilities through automation and lean processes. * Develop capabilities of frontline leadership through mentoring, training, and coaching. Education, Work Experience ...

The Plant Manager is responsible for creating a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and ... Working closely with executive leadership, this role develops and executes operating plans that ...

Plant Controller

Elkmont, AL

$97K - $121K/yr

Plan and develop plant annual operating budget, quarterly forecasts and monthly flash reports. These reports must be generated in an accurate and timely fashion. Direct and review the annual Standard ...

Plant Controller

Elkmont, AL · On-site

$97K - $121K/yr

Plan and develop plant annual operating budget, quarterly forecasts and monthly flash reports. These reports must be generated in an accurate and timely fashion. Direct and review the annual Standard ...

Plant Controller

Elkmont, AL · On-site

$97K - $121K/yr

Plan and develop plant annual operating budget, quarterly forecasts and monthly flash reports. These reports must be generated in an accurate and timely fashion. Direct and review the annual Standard ...

Plant Manager

Dothan, AL · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

The Plant Manager is responsible for creating a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and ... Working closely with executive leadership, this role develops and executes operating plans that ...

Showing results 41-60

Plant Operator information

See Alabama salary details

$12

$20

$35

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Alabama is $20.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plant operator?

Plant operators are professionals responsible for controlling and overseeing industrial machinery and equipment in facilities such as power plants, water treatment plants, or manufacturing sites. Their main duties include monitoring systems, maintaining equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring that operations run smoothly and safely. Plant operators must follow strict safety protocols, respond to emergencies, and perform routine inspections to keep the plant functioning efficiently. They often work in shifts and may be required to handle complex technical systems. This role typically requires technical training and a strong attention to detail.

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

To thrive as a Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, process control, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with control panels, SCADA systems, and maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for ensuring smooth operations and responding quickly to issues. These skills are vital for maintaining operational efficiency, safety, and compliance in industrial plant environments.

What does a plant operator do?

A plant operator oversees the day-to-day operations of an industrial plant. As a plant operator, you operate different types of machinery and equipment from a control room. You might specialize in a specific type of machinery and work on one part of the process, or you might be a generalist who works on different machines in all parts of the process. Plant operators work in many industries such as the oil and gas industry, manufacturing, utilities and power plants.

What are some common challenges faced by plant operators, and how can they be effectively managed?

Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as unexpected equipment malfunctions, maintaining safety protocols, and adapting to variable production demands. Managing these challenges typically involves staying vigilant during routine inspections, promptly reporting and addressing anomalies, and collaborating closely with maintenance teams. Continuous training on updated safety procedures and clear communication with supervisors and co-workers are also crucial for effective problem-solving and ensuring smooth plant operations.

What is the difference between Plant Operator vs Equipment Operator?

AspectPlant OperatorEquipment Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a certification or license specific to plant operationsOften requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) or equipment-specific training
Work EnvironmentOperates machinery within industrial plants, power plants, or manufacturing facilitiesOperates heavy machinery outdoors, such as bulldozers, cranes, or forklifts
Industry UsageCommon in energy, manufacturing, and utility industriesCommon in construction, mining, and logistics industries

While both roles involve operating machinery, Plant Operators focus on managing and controlling plant systems within industrial facilities, often requiring specialized certifications. Equipment Operators typically handle heavy machinery outdoors, with a focus on construction or transportation tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and certifications.

How much do plant operators make?

Plant operators in Florida typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often working shifts that include nights and weekends.

Is a plant operator a good career?

A plant operator is a skilled tradesperson responsible for operating and maintaining industrial equipment in facilities such as power plants, manufacturing plants, or water treatment facilities. The role offers stable employment, requires technical training or certifications, and often involves shift work in a safety-conscious environment. It can be a good career for those interested in technical work and industrial processes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 49% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,166 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Loadout Operator RE01 - A Shift (Days) - RVI Hanceville Plant B

Tyson Foods

Hanceville, AL

$19.85/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Tyson Foods rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 556 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

298th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Details:

Starting Pay $19.85/hr base pay

Shift: Day shift, A shift, Sunday to Wednesday 6 am to 6 pm

Location: River Valley ingredients, Hanceville, AL, Plant B

Loadout Operator - This position is responsible for loading all finished outgoing product, inspecting trailers and tankers, collecting samples, testing samples and completing and keeping documents while maintaining a safe work environment and adhering to Tyson policies and procedures. When not engaged in loading tankers or trucks, applicant will be required to work in production area as assigned by supervisor.

The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; high, precarious places; outside weather conditions; risk of electrical shock; and vibration. The employee is occasionally exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals and extreme heat. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Requirements:Required 6 consecutive months of work within the last 1 year.

All applicants must complete the final task that is separate from the application. If your application has not been fully submitted, you will need to complete any task that are awaiting. If you are logged in to your candidate profile, click on candidate home at the top right corner and it should show on the next screen the task that will need to be completed. For Application Status please login into your candidate profile.

Please Select SMS text messaging during application process to be sure you will be contacted in a timely manner. Any Prior Workers that need to update their phone number please call Ask HR at 1-479-290-5000

Rehire Criteria: Former Tyson Team Members must be separated from the company for a minimum of 180 calendar days. Also, if you have worked at Tyson 3 times or more you will not be eligible for rehire. Applicants that complete an application and do not meet the criteria described in this statement will be removed from the application process.

Relocation Assistance Eligible:

No

Work Shift:

A Shift (United States of America)

Certain roles at Tyson require background checks. If you are offered a position that requires a background check you will be provided additional documentation to complete once an offer has been extended.

Hourly Applicants ONLY -You must complete the task after submitting your application to provide additional information to be considered for employment.


The successful candidate(s) must be willing and able to perform the physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation.


Tyson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, national origin, color, religion, age, genetics, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.


We provide our team members and their families with paid time off; 401(k) plans; affordable health, life, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; and more.


If you would like to learn more about your data privacy rights and how you may use that information, please read our Job Applicant Privacy Notice here.


Unsolicited Assistance: Tyson Foods and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited support from external recruitment vendors for open positions within the United States. Any resumes or candidate profiles submitted by recruitment vendors or headhunters to any employee or applicant tracking system at Tyson Foods or its subsidiaries, without a valid written request and search agreement approved by HR, will be considered the property of Tyson Foods. No fees will be paid if the candidate is hired due to an unsolicited referral.


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