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Plant Operator Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Plant Operator

Madison, WI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

R10096909 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Madison, WI - Robertson Rd - Filling industrial How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that ...

Plant Operator

Madison, WI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

R10096909 Plant Operator (Open) Location: Madison, WI - Robertson Rd - Filling industrial How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW? We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace that ...

The Babcock Dairy Plant is seeking a dependable and hardworking Machine Operator to support the production of our award-winning dairy products. This is a full-time, hands-on manufacturing position in ...

Asphalt Plant Manager

Madison, WI ยท On-site

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Under the direction of the Area Asphalt Plant Manager, the Asphalt Plant Manageris responsible for the day-to-day operations associated with asphalt plant supervision and asphalt production. In ...

Asphalt Plant Manager

Madison, WI ยท On-site

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Under the direction of the Area Asphalt Plant Manager, the Asphalt Plant Manageris responsible for the day-to-day operations associated with asphalt plant supervision and asphalt production. In ...

Miller

Johnson Creek, WI ยท On-site

$27 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cross train with other operators to assure adequate coverage during unexpected interruptions in the plant. * Participate in projects that improve efficiency and/or reduce operating costs. * Perform ...

Miller

Johnson Creek, WI ยท On-site

$27 - $33/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Cross train with other operators to assure adequate coverage during unexpected interruptions in the plant. * Participate in projects that improve efficiency and/or reduce operating costs. * Perform ...

Concrete Batch Plant Manager

Madison, WI ยท On-site

$32 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Concrete Batch Plant Manager Position Summary: We are seeking an experienced and safety-focused Concrete Batch Plant Manager to lead the daily operations of one of our concrete plants. The ideal ...

Implement cost effective systems of control over capital, operating expenditures, manpower, scrap ... Maintain existing plant facilities and equipment; replace or make adjustments to plant facilities ...

Implement cost effective systems of control over capital, operating expenditures, manpower, scrap ... Maintain existing plant facilities and equipment; replace or make adjustments to plant facilities ...

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Plant Operator information

See Madison, WI salary details

$13

$22

$39

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Madison, WI is $22.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $25.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 is the work of a plant operator?

A plant operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring machinery and equipment in industrial plants such as power plants, water treatment facilities, or manufacturing plants. They operate control panels, perform routine inspections, and ensure safety and efficiency of operations, often requiring technical skills and certifications. Their work environment can be demanding and may involve shift work to maintain continuous operations.

How much do plant operators make?

Plant operators in Florida typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry sector. Skilled operators with certifications such as OSHA or EPA may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or power plant environments.

What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator jobs in Madison, WI?

For Plant Operator jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plant Operator jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Plant Operator jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Madison, WI 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 $46,876 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Plant Operator

Airliquidehr

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 hours ago


Job description

R10096909 Plant Operator (Open)

Location:

Madison, WI - Robertson Rd - 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.Airgas is Hiring for a Plant Operator in Madison, WI!
We are looking for you!
  • 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

The Plant Operator supports the team by safely operating equipment for the handling and production of packaged gas cylinders, both for high pressure and liquefied gasses.

  • Loads and unloads gas cylinders and/or other products onto and off of route trucks and trailers moving cylinders with proper carts only.

  • Sorts empty cylinders by type to ensure an organized workflow.

  • Rolls cylinders and operates a forklift truck for the movement of cylinders on pallets.

  • Develops an understanding of hazards of various gases; size and contents of cylinders by reading and interpreting cylinder labels and the color-coding of tanks. Accurately labels cylinders.

  • Safely cares for high-pressure, medical and liquid cylinders. Prepares high pressure cylinders and cryogenic vessels for filling. Attaches to manifold, evacuates cylinders to eliminate all possible contaminants.

  • Contributes to basic cylinder maintenance such as painting cylinders, labeling cylinders, and the cleaning of the work area.

  • Inspects cylinders prior to filling, following standard procedures as required by government, Airgas, and distributor standards. Conducts a variety of safety checks per procedures, such as odor tests, checking caps and valves. Fills cylinders by pressure and weight, per regulations and standards.

  • Checks for cylinder quantities, styles and product, and/or assists the team with inventory.

  • Coordinates documentation to DOT, FDA, OSHA, and Airgas standards. Completes quality control sheets as required.

  • Upholds all government and company standards relating to the safe handling of hazardous materials/cylinder gases.

________________________Are you a MATCH? Required Qualifications
  • HS Diploma or equivalent preferred.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Ideally, you bring experience in a manufacturing operation; filling or loading experience is a plus.

  • Familiarity with the gas, welding, and safety supply industry or chemical industry is valued.

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills to ensure team alignment.

  • Ability to read and comprehend material safety data sheets to maintain a secure environment.

  • Enjoys collaborating with a wide variety of people with different perspectives and backgrounds.

  • Supportive customer service skills.

  • Self-motivated and able to contribute effectively in a fast-paced environment to meet shared deadlines.

  • High level of attention to detail and precision.

  • Comfortable with basic calculations (adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing) in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.

  • Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percentages.

  • Ability to safely operate a forklift (training may be provided).

  • Physical dexterity to navigate the plant floor: includes walking, sitting, and using hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; reaching, stooping, kneeling, or crouching as needed.

  • Specific vision abilities to ensure safety: including close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus on objects.

  • Regularly utilizes physical coordination to stand, bend, stoop, reach, and grasp; ability to communicate and hear effectively within the facility.

  • Sensory awareness to detect environmental cues, such as smelling or hearing gas to ensure site safety.

  • Occasionally required to move through the facility, use hands for fine motor tasks or computer entry, and reach with hands and arms.

  • Capacity to regularly lift and/or move up to 60 pounds and move up to 800 pounds with the assistance of material handling equipment.

________________________

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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