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Plant Operator Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Aspen Aerogels

Casting Operator

East Providence, RI · On-site

This includes, but is not limited to, following all control plans and standard operating procedures ... Must be able to work holidays; 24/7 plant 365 days/year * Demonstrated technical problem-solving ...

Aspen Aerogels

Casting Operator

East Providence, RI

This includes, but is not limited to, following all control plans and standard operating procedures ... Must be able to work holidays; 24/7 plant 365 days/year * Demonstrated technical problem-solving ...

Aspen Aerogels

Casting Operator

East Providence, RI · On-site

This includes, but is not limited to, following all control plans and standard operating procedures ... Must be able to work holidays; 24/7 plant 365 days/year * Demonstrated technical problem-solving ...

Lucas Milhaupt

Machine Operator Second Shift

Warwick, RI · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Responsible for operating the assigned machine(s) throughout the plant. DUTIES INCLUDE: * Operate Machines safely and follow all procedures. * Strong commitment to safety * Prioritize job flow based ...

Steel Partners

Machine Operator Second Shift

Warwick, RI · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Responsible for operating the assigned machine(s) throughout the plant. DUTIES INCLUDE: * Operate Machines safely and follow all procedures. * Strong commitment to safety * Prioritize job flow based ...

Lucas Milhaupt

Machine Operator Second Shift

Warwick, RI · On-site

$17 - $20.50/hr

Responsible for operating the assigned machine(s) throughout the plant. DUTIES INCLUDE: * Operate Machines safely and follow all procedures. * Strong commitment to safety * Prioritize job flow based ...

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Plant Operator information

See Rhode Island salary details

$13

$21

$38

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Rhode Island is $21.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $24.71 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.
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Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,558 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Blender Operator - 3rd Shift (10:45PM - 7:00AM)

Teknor Apex

Pawtucket, RI • On-site

$18.97/hr

Other

Re-posted 22 days ago

Teknor Apex rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 85 rated plastic manufacturers

Job description

The Blender Operator is responsible for the charging of hand adds to the blenders, verifying the lot numbers and weights of raw materials and staging the raw material(s) necessary to produce finished products, following batch card instructions, reviewing production schedule and following written instructions to customers’ requirements.

**Job Requirements: **

  • This blender operator will need to learn Line 4 Blending area or can be asked to fill in on another job when needed.
  • Responsible prior to the charging of the blender for verifying all TA item code numbers and
  • Responsible for recording all lot numbers of staged materials on the batch card.
  • Responsible for the cleaning and inspection of the blender to insure it is ready to accept the next
  • Responsible for compound charge, staging the necessary raw materials and preparing the blender to accept the next compound charge scheduled.
  • Responsible for the charging of all hand adds to the blender as specified by the blender batch card.
  • Responsible for reporting any variation from procedure to supervision and documenting this variation on the batch card
  • Responsible for coordinating blender production with other areas of operation.
  • Responsible for reviewing the production schedule and following customer packaging instructions. All product is to be properly packed, labeled, weighed, and sealed. Any schedule, instruction, or potential problem must be reported to the Bagger Leadman.
  • Responsible for generating labels and properly aligning and affixing these to the package container.
  • Responsible for performing changeovers of the packaging equipment in a timely, efficient,clean manner with required safety equipment utilized. Communicate with mill area operators after changeover is completed.
  • Responsible for preparing packaging materials to cover future shift schedule requirements (i.e. Gaylords, Supersacks, etc.)
  • Responsible for the scanning / entering of finished product into the computer system.
  • Practice good housekeeping and wear the required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Meet or exceed all plant key performance indicators.
  • Participate in and help sustain Lean Manufacturing initiatives.

Skills:

  • Able to read and comprehend English. Possess good math skills.
  • Able to drive (or learn to drive) a forklift and to use an electric hand truck.

**3rd SHIFT: (10:45PM - 7:00AM) **

Teknor Apex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any protected status under state or federal laws. Must be 18 years of age to work at Teknor Apex.

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