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Plant Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Plant Operator - Floating

Sterling, VA · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

Titan Virginia Ready Mix has an excellent opportunity for a Floating Plant Operator for its NOVA Region. This hourly position will report directly to the Operations Manager. This position works ...

Plant Operator - Floating

Sterling, VA · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

Titan Virginia Ready Mix has an excellent opportunity for a Floating Plant Operator for its NOVA Region. This hourly position will report directly to the Operations Manager. This position works ...

Plant Operator - Floating

Sterling, VA · On-site

$32 - $37/hr

Titan Virginia Ready Mix has an excellent opportunity for a Floating Plant Operator for its NOVA Region. This hourly position will report directly to the Operations Manager. This position works ...

2nd Shift - Plant Operator

Rockville, VA · On-site

$24.38 - $36.57/hr

Luck Stone's Rockville Plant is looking for a Plant Operator who's mechanically inclined, safety-minded, and ready to keep our crushers, conveyors, screens, feeders, and bins running at their best.

ESI Plant Operator RNG

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Plant Operator - Suffolk, Virginia Company Overview ENERGYneering Solutions Inc. ® (ESI) provides exceptional technical expertise in engineering and operations for the biogas utilization and ...

ESI Plant Operator RNG

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Plant Operator - Suffolk, Virginia Company Overview ENERGYneering Solutions Inc. ® (ESI) provides exceptional technical expertise in engineering and operations for the biogas utilization and ...

Water Plant Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$25.26 - $54.18/hr

Stafford County is seeking Water Plant Operators to join our team. If you meet these qualifications, we encourage you to apply. All sections of the application must be completed in its entirety. The ...

Water Plant Operator

Stafford, VA · On-site

$25.26 - $54.18/hr

There are four levels to the Water Plant Operator positions, which offer opportunities for career growth. The hiring range for each level based on experience is: * Class IV - $25.26 to $34.74 per ...

The Fill Plant Operator will also fill cylinders with compressed gases and prepare shipments for the branches. RESPONSIBILITIES * Read Shortage Sheet or receive oral instructions to determine work ...

The Fill Plant Operator will also fill cylinders with compressed gases and prepare shipments for the branches. RESPONSIBILITIES * Read Shortage Sheet or receive oral instructions to determine work ...

About the role Back Plant Operator As a Back Plant Operator, you will be responsible for the safe, efficient, and environmentally sound operations of industrial systems and equipment associated with ...

Showing results 41-60

Plant Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$22

$39

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Virginia is $22.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $25.00 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 Virginia?

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Plant Operator jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,122 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Overview

The Central Plant Operator is responsible for the daytoday operation and upkeep of the facility's building automation systems, lighting controls, and centralized chiller plant. Working under the technical direction of the Chief Engineer, this role ensures efficient performance of the chiller plant, geothermal well systems, and all automated building controls. The operator also monitors, adjusts, and maintains heating and ventilation equipment, including fans, pumps, compressors, ducts, vents, and lubrication systems that support building and industrial operations

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Serve as the primary operator for the site's building automation systems, lighting controls, and centralized chiller plant.
  • Operate the chiller plant, geothermal wells, and lighting systems in coordination with the Chief Engineer's technical guidance.
  • Perform mechanical and electrical repairs on HVAC equipment while on shift or during routine rounds.
  • Conduct inspections and functional tests to verify proper operation of refrigeration components, HVAC systems, and geothermal equipment.
  • Perform preventive maintenance on mechanical and operational equipment and operate associated electrical machinery.
  • Follow all company policies, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements.
  • Monitor and adjust ventilation and heating equipment as needed.
  • Regulate oil temperature, water flow, and system pressures by adjusting valves and controls.
  • Control fan speeds, adjust vents and ducts, record gauge readings, and document repairs and downtime.
  • Issue repair tickets and outofservice tags for equipment requiring maintenance.
  • Inspect equipment for unusual noise, heat, or performance issues.
  • Replace gauges, tighten fittings, and seal leaks using appropriate tools.
  • Clean fans, ducts, vents, and related components using scrapers, compressed air, steam, or other approved methods.
  • Maintain a safe and orderly work environment.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, AND LICENSURE:

  • Requires a high school diploma
  • Requires experience in HVAC
  • 3 years of experience as a Central Plant Operator.
  • Secret clearance

 

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS:

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the following essential functions.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Prior experience in the supervision of a workforce responsible for operations, maintenance, and repair of commercial building infrastructure systems. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

  • Must be able be able to conduct preventative maintenance activities and minor repairs from ladders or elevated platforms. 
  • Work requires the incumbent to walk, stoop, bend, kneel, climb and work in uncomfortable positions. 
  • Ability to lift, carry and set up tools, equipment and parts that weigh up to and occasionally over fifty (50) pounds. 
  • Must be comfortable getting dirty, dusty, and greasy in an indoor or outdoor environment with frequent exposure to excessive noise. 
  • Must be able to perform duties under adverse weather conditions (extreme cold / heat, etc.).
  • Must be able to work alternate shift schedules when necessary to meet the mission requirements of the customer, to include weekends and holidays.
  • Must be able to perform on-call duties when scheduled and report to work within one hour of notification. 

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be able be able to conduct preventative maintenance activities and minor repairs from ladders or elevated platforms. 
  • Work requires the incumbent to walk, stoop, bend, kneel, climb and work in uncomfortable positions. 
  • Ability to lift, carry and set up tools, equipment and parts that weigh up to and occasionally over fifty (50) pounds. 

 

WORK AUTHORIZATION/SECURITY CLEARANCE:

Secret or higher security clearance, or the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. U.S. Citizenship is required.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFYING FACTORS:

As a condition of employment, must pass a pre-employment drug screening, as well as have acceptable reference and background check results.

As an equal opportunity employer, The Tatitlek Corporation recognizes that our strength lies in our people. Discrimination and all unlawful harassment, including sexual harassment, in employment is not tolerated. We encourage success based on our individual merits and abilities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, citizenship status, military status, protected veteran status or employment. We support and obey laws that prohibit discrimination everywhere we do business.

Salary$110k+ DOEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME