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Plant Operator Jobs in Lexington, SC (NOW HIRING)

Airliquidehr

Plant Operator

Columbia, SC · On-site

R10097635 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Columbia, SC - Filling industrial How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the unique ...

Mattr

Plant Manager

Blythewood, SC · On-site

Manage plant operating budgets and expenditures. * Support forecasting activities and maintain forecast accuracy. * Develop capital requests to support production requirements. * Partner with ...

Mattr

Plant Manager

Blythewood, SC · On-site

Manage plant operating budgets and expenditures. * Support forecasting activities and maintain forecast accuracy. * Develop capital requests to support production requirements. * Partner with ...

MATTR

Plant Manager

Blythewood, SC · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Manage plant operating budgets and expenditures. * Support forecasting activities and maintain forecast accuracy. * Develop capital requests to support production requirements. * Partner with ...

cls

Plant Worker

Columbia, SC · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

... commercial laundry plant in order to meet customer needs. The type of work performed could be ... Dryer Operator, Wash Operator, Stain Washer, Sewing/Mending, Soil Sorting, as well as folding ...

cls

Plant Worker

Columbia, SC

$15 - $20/hr

... commercial laundry plant in order to meet customer needs. The type of work performed could be ... Dryer Operator, Wash Operator, Stain Washer, Sewing/Mending, Soil Sorting, as well as folding ...

Benteler

Plant Manager

Blythewood, SC · On-site

Own plant profitability and overall P&L performance ... Develop and manage annual operating budgets and capital plans. * Drive cost improvement initiatives ...

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All JobsPlant Operator JobsPlant Operator Jobs in Lexington, SC

Plant Operator information

See Lexington, SC salary details

$11

$19

$33

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Lexington, SC is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $21.59 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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The top searched job categories for Plant Operator jobs in Lexington, SC are:

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Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Lexington, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,820 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Plant Operator

Airliquidehr

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 hours ago

Job description

R10097635 Plant Operator (Open)

Location:

Columbia, SC - Filling industrialHow will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW?We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces the unique perspectives of our employees, our customers, patients, community stakeholders, and cultures across the world. We believe that a variety of backgrounds makes our team stronger and more innovative
Job Description

At Airgas, we RESPECT, HONOR and VALUE diversity.

Airgas is hiring for a Plant Operator in Columbia, SC!

We are looking for you!

  • Work Schedule - Monday - Friday 5am - 1:30pm

  • Referral Bonus

  • Monthly Plant Incentive potentially earn up to $4 more per hour

  • Comprehensive Family Benefits: Airgas offers a full benefits package designed to support your whole life, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, and Disability Insurance.

  • Support for Parents: We offer a 14-week paid child birth benefit to support growing families.

  • Future Security: 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match, Tuition Assistance, Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick time.

  • Early Access: Your benefits start after just 30 days of employment

Recruiter: Jacob (Jacob.braithwaite@airliquide.com) Phone: 980-445-9764 Call or Text

Join our vibrant team at Airgas as a Plant Operator and play a vital role in our commitment to delivering excellence in industrial gasses and related products. As a Plant Operator, you will be a steward of the safe and efficient operation of our production facility, including the filling of cylinders, to support excellent quality standards.

Job Duties:

  • Care for and steward equipment within our production facility, including compressors, pumps, filling stations, and forklifts, to support a steady supply of industrial gases.

  • Engage in routine inspections and maintenance contributions to keep equipment in excellent condition, noticing and building alignment on any needs promptly to help the team succeed.

  • Safely support the flow and transport of cylinders, including filling and quality checks, prioritizing the well-being of the team and following safety guidelines.

  • Ideally, you bring experience operating equipment like a forklift to move materials and products within the facility safely and efficiently.

  • Contribute to accurate and helpful records of equipment maintenance, cylinder tracking, and production activities to foster team transparency.

  • Maintain a commitment to all safety protocols and procedures to foster a secure and supportive work environment for everyone.

  • Participate in collaborative team meetings and safety initiatives to pioneer new ways of working together effectively.

________________________Are you a MATCH?

Required Qualifications:

  • Applicants should be 18 years of age or older

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in plant operations, industrial maintenance, or a related field is preferred.

  • Technical certification in industrial operations is a plus.

  • Industrial Gas Experience.

  • Excellent attention to detail and thoughtful organizational skills.

  • A shared commitment to safety and following the protocols that keep our whole team secure.

  • Comfort with operating a forklift safely and efficiently .

  • Flexibility to work shifts and occasional extra hours when needed to support your teammates.

________________________

Benefits

We care about and support our Airgas Families. This is evident not only through our competitive compensation but also through a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision plans, short-term and long-term disability, life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), pre-tax commuter transportation benefit, parental leave, vacation, sick time, floating holidays, jury duty and funeral/bereavement leave, and paid holidays for all eligible full-time employees.

Additionally, we offer our eligible employees a 401k plan with company matching funds, tuition reimbursement, discounted college tuition for eligible employees' dependents, and an Airgas Scholarship Program for dependent children.

Associates who are members of collective bargaining units should review their bargaining agreement to determine whether they are eligible for some or all of the benefits described here and to see any special terms or conditions for eligibility.

_________________________

Your DIFFERENCES enhance our PERFORMANCE

At Airgas, we are committed to building a workplace that embraces the diversity of our employees, our customers, patients, community stakeholders and cultures across the world.

We welcome and consider applications from all qualified applicants, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability or any other protected characteristic. We strongly believe a diverse organization opens up opportunities for people to express their talent, both individually and collectively and it helps foster our ability to innovate by living our fundamentals, acting for our success and creating an engaging environment in a changing world.

_________________________

About Airgas

Airgas, an Air Liquide company, is a leading U.S. supplier of industrial, medical and specialty gases, as well as hardgoods and related products; one of the largest U.S. suppliers of safety products; and a leading U.S. supplier of ammonia products and process chemicals. Through the passion and diversity of its 18,000 associates, Airgas fosters a culture of safety, customer success, sustainability and innovation. Airgas associates are empowered to share ideas, take initiative and make decisions.

Airgas is a subsidiary of Air Liquide, a world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and healthcare. Present in 60 countries with approximately 66,500 employees, Air Liquide serves more than 4 million customers and patients.

Join us for a stimulating experience: At Airgas, you matter and so does the work you do. As a member of our team, you play an important role in the success of your team, making sure our products are created sustainably and delivered safely and efficiently. In turn, you'll find a welcoming workplace where you're valued for who you are and where you can fill your potential while growing a fulfilling career - whatever path you choose.

_________________________

Equal Employment Opportunity Information

We are an equal opportunity employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

Airgas, an Air Liquide Company is a Government contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Airgas does not discriminate against qualified applicants with disabilities, and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to the known disabilities of such individuals so as to ensure equal access to benefits and privileges of employment. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact us by email at us-accommodationrequest@airgas.com.

_________________________

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