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Plant Operator Jobs in Dothan, AL (NOW HIRING)

... Plant in Enterprise, AL. This role works inside poultry houses, often in low-light conditions, and requires operating equipment around crew members while maintaining strict safety and animal welfare ...

Operator, Process-DOTH

Headland, AL · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

SCHEDULE This is a night shift operator position. The typical shift schedule is 12 hours, 6:00 PM ... Learn and comply with all established safety rules and food safety rules of the Plant as well as ...

Operator, Process-DOTH

Headland, AL · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

SCHEDULE This is a night shift operator position. The typical shift schedule is 12 hours, 6:00 PM ... Learn and comply with all established safety rules and food safety rules of the Plant as well as ...

Operator, Process-DOTH

Headland, AL · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

SCHEDULE This is a night shift operator position. The typical shift schedule is 12 hours, 6:00 PM ... Learn and comply with all established safety rules and food safety rules of the Plant as well as ...

Machine Operator/Material Handler Location: Dothan, Alabama Company Description "The Novo culture ... This position is in a fast-paced work environment inside the US4 Michlin Plant located in Dothan ...

Front End Loader Operator -Dothan, AL

Dothan, AL · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Must have at least two years experience operating a Loader either on road construction projects or in a quarry and or asphalt plant Requirements: Operate equipment safely and efficiently. Responsible ...

Machine Operator Pay: $18/hour Shift: 6:00 AM-4:00 PM Job Overview We are hiring an experienced and dependable Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team. This is a hands-on production role for ...

Machine Operator Pay: $18/hour Shift: 6:00 AM-4:00 PM Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience ...

Machine Operator Pay: $18/hour Shift: 6:00 AM4:00 PM Job Overview We are hiring an experienced and dependable Machine Operator to join our manufacturing team. This is a hands-on production role for ...

Forklift Operator

Graceville, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $18/hr

Rex Lumber has been family owned and operated for over 90 years. We have always believed in our community and the honest, hardworking people that live in it. Today, Rex Lumber employs over 800 people ...

Production Supervisor

Dothan, AL · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

The Production Supervisor manages all operators and production activities on the plant floor during their designated shift. He/she is responsible for meeting shift targets for scheduled production ...

Production Supervisor

Dothan, AL · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

The Production Supervisor manages all operators and production activities on the plant floor during their designated shift. He/she is responsible for meeting shift targets for scheduled production ...

Showing results 41-60

Plant Operator information

See Dothan, AL salary details

$12

$20

$36

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Dothan, AL is $20.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $22.93 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 job categories do people searching Plant Operator jobs in Dothan, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Plant Operator jobs in Dothan, AL are:

What cities near Dothan, AL are hiring for Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Dothan, AL with the most Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Dothan, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,291 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Field Load Operator

Pilgrim's

Enterprise, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Pilgrim's rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

351st of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Description
Field Load Operator
The Field Load Operator is responsible for transporting empty poultry cages from live-haul trailers to broiler houses and safely operating a loader to move filled cages for transport to the Processing Plant in Enterprise, AL. This role works inside poultry houses, often in low-light conditions, and requires operating equipment around crew members while maintaining strict safety and animal welfare standards.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Safely operate a loader inside broiler houses, including maneuvering in dark, confined, or crowded areas with low visibility areas.
  • Transport empty cages from live-haul trailers and position them for crews to load birds.
  • Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while adhering to all safety and animal welfare procedures.
  • Operate in varying conditions, including rough, uneven, or muddy terrain.
  • Perform job duties inside broiler houses that may have wet, slick floors and low-hanging equipment (e.g., feed lines, water lines, thermostats), and be exposed to dust, feathers, and temperature variations.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

What You'll Need
  • Education: High School Diploma or GED Preferred.
  • Skills: Must have the ability to operate loaders or similar equipment. Must be reliable and safety focused. Must have the ability to multitask and have good communication skills with the ability to work in or around physically demanding environments.
  • Physical requirements: As a condition of employment, the selected candidate must obtain and maintain a valid DOT physical exam certificate (CDL is not required).

Why Work for Pilgrim's?
  • Schedule: Monday - Thursday ( Four 12-Hour Shifts)
  • Benefits: Vision, Medical, and Dental coverage begin after 60 days of employment;
  • Time Off Benefits: Includes flexible unpaid leave, vacation time, and six company-recognized holidays;
  • 401(k): company match begins after the first year of service and follows the company vesting schedule;
  • Career Development: Our company is dedicated to supporting professional growth by offering continuous learning opportunities and a focus on career growth through various learning and development programs;
  • College Tuition Assistance Program: JBS USA and Pilgrim's are providing team members and their child dependents the opportunity to pursue their higher education dreams for associate degrees and trade certificates at community and technical colleges with tuition assistance. We recognize and believe in the transformative power of higher education and the opportunities that come from education, coursework, and technical skill training. The Better Futures Program provides meaningful investments in the futures of our team members, their families and our communities. For more information, visit Better Futures - JBS Foods.

About Us
Pilgrim's is a leading global food company with more than 62,000 team members worldwide. The company processes, prepares, packages, and delivers fresh, frozen, and value-added food products for customers in more than 100 countries. Pilgrim's operates protein processing plants and prepared foods facilities in 14 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, the U.K, the Republic of Ireland and continental Europe.
Our Mission
To be the best in all that we do, completely focused on our business, ensuring the best products and services to our customers, a relationship of trust with our suppliers, profitability for our shareholders and the opportunity of a better future for all of our team members.
Our Core Values
Availability, Determination, Discipline, Humility, Ownership, Simplicity, Sincerity
EOE, including disability/vets
Unsolicited Assistance: JBS and its companies do not accept unsolicited assistance from any recruitment vendors for any of our open jobs. All resumes or candidate profiles submitted by recruitment vendors or headhunters to any employee at JBS and its companies or via the applicant tracking system, in any form without a valid written request and search agreement previously approved by HR, will be solely owned by JBS and its companies. No fees will be paid should the candidate be hired by JBS and its companies because of an unsolicited referral.

What Pilgrim's employees say

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About Pilgrim's

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pilgrim's is a leading global provider of high-quality food products, including well-recognized brands and value-added premium products. As one of the world's largest poultry producers, Pilgrim's has provided wholesome, quality products to customers and consumers for more than seven decades. It's our passion for excellence that continues to drive us to be the best, and we seek opportunities to diversify and grow.

Industry

Animal farming

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Greeley, CO, US

Year founded

1946

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