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Plant Operator Jobs in Manchester, CT (NOW HIRING)

Wheelabrator Technologies

Part Time APO

Lisbon, CT · On-site

Assists the Plant Operator in the daily operation and maintenance of the plant in the field. Investigate changes in instrument readings and equipment operation. Notifies Plant Operator and/or Shift ...

WIN Waste Innovations

Part Time APO

Lisbon, CT · On-site

Assists the Plant Operator in the daily operation and maintenance of the plant in the field. Investigate changes in instrument readings and equipment operation. Notifies Plant Operator and/or Shift ...

Aerotek

Chemical Operator

Berlin, CT

$25 - $29/hr

Chemical Operator This hands-on Chemical Plant Operator role focuses on blending and manufacturing paints and adhesives while ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality production. You will operate ...

Town of Vernon

Plant Foreman

Vernon, CT · On-site

$43.62/hr

Assigns operators and plant staff to operations and related maintenance tasks. Reviews work in progress and reassigns employees as needed. Administers plant safety programs. Essential Job Functions:

Town of Vernon

Plant Foreman

CT · On-site

$43.62/hr

Assigns operators and plant staff to operations and related maintenance tasks. Reviews work in progress and reassigns employees as needed. Administers plant safety programs. Essential Job Functions:

Flex Tek

Plant Manager

Springfield, MA · On-site

The Manufacturing Plant Manager is responsible for leading all aspects of plant operations to ... Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and best operational practices. * Serve as the ...

Smiths Group

Plant Manager

Springfield, MA · On-site

The Manufacturing Plant Manager is responsible for leading all aspects of plant operations to ... Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and best operational practices. * Serve as the ...

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All JobsPlant Operator JobsPlant Operator Jobs in Manchester, CT

Plant Operator information

See Manchester, CT salary details

$13

$22

$40

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Manchester, CT is $22.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $25.48 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.
More about Plant Operator jobs

What cities near Manchester, CT are hiring for Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Manchester, CT with the most Plant Operator job openings:

Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Manchester, CT 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 $46,986 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Part Time APO

Lisbon, CT • On-site

Wheelabrator Technologies
1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Wheelabrator Technologiesexternal

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

WIN Waste Innovations is currently looking for an Assistant Plant Operator. This person is a confident, enthusiastic and responsible individual. They will operate boilers and auxiliary plant equipment locally throughout the plant, making necessary adjustments to maintain safety, efficient andcontinuous plant operations, while maintaining environmental regulations.

Responsibilities:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential duties satisfactorily. Other minor duties may be assigned and may vary by location.

  • Assists the Plant Operator in the daily operation and maintenance of the plant in the field. Investigate changes in instrument readings and equipment operation. Notifies Plant Operator and/or Shift Supervisor of operational inconsistencies or other concerns.
  • Makes required turbine/generator APC and other critical inspections regularly and as described in preexisting procedures. Recognizes and mitigates operating difficulties. Adapts to changing plant conditions regarding maximizing plant safety and efficiency and minimizing down time.
  • Documents on log; comments that facilitate problem tracking; work that needs to be performed; and other plant activities that communicate status of plant. Maintains logs and other written documentation on schedule and with clear, accurate and legible writing.
  • Operates all aspects of demineralization system, including making required adjustments to system safely and accurately. Performs water testing and treatment using knowledge of boiler water chemistry, maintains set parameters and laboratory procedures. Completes accurate and timely water tests; records data and performs chemical adjustments with assistance.
  • With guidance, operates all aspects of APC system safely and accurately. Adjusts APC system so that system performance is equal to or slightly above facility average. Works with maintenance to troubleshoot problems and assesses probable cause with assistance from Plant Operator.
  • Maintains work areas in a clean, neat, and orderly condition at all times.
  • Completes the Corporate and Plant Training Programs within the time frame prescribed.
  • Maintain positive work environment by acting and communicating in a manner so that you get along with customers, clients, vendors, co-workers and management.

Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED (accredited)
  • Bachelors or Associates degree or equivalent is desirable
  • 2 years working in a power plant operation or 3 years related experience
  • Mechanical skills sufficient to perform varied mechanical tasks such as replacement of shear pins, valve repacking and equipment inspections
  • Knowledge and understanding of the operation of a steam generating power plant
  • Maintain positive work environment by acting and communicating in a manner so that you get along with customers, clients, vendors, co-workers and management.

Certificates and Licenses:

  • Licenses as required by Local, State, Federal, Environmental and/or Health/Safety Regulatory agencies.
  • For the State of Massachusetts, there is a requirement for an Assistant Plant Operator to hold a Massachusetts 3rd Engineer's and Massachusetts Hoisting License: 1D / 2C or ability to obtain these licenses within 9 months of hire.

Work Environment:

Listed below are key points regarding environmental demands and work environment of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

  • Noise in work environment

Physical Demand:

  • Stand
  • Sit for prolonged periods of time
  • Walk
  • Handle tools, equipment, fine motor skills
  • Reach with hands and arms
  • Climb and walk on heights often greater than 4 feet
  • Stoop, kneel, bend, push, pull, crawl
  • Ascend and descend stairs and stationary vertical ladders as part of normal work activity and emergency egress situations
  • Lift 50 lbs.
  • Move about all areas of the plant, including catwalks, deck grating, and uneven surfaces
  • Close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, corrected or otherwise
  • Operate a 1.5-inch fire hose operating at 125 psi line pressure to the extent required to extinguish fire
  • Operate fire extinguishing equipment ranging from handheld extinguishers to 200 lb portable units
  • Access confined spaces and pressure vessels through standard 12" by 16" manways

PPE Required:

Work in areas under adverse conditions that may require the donning and use of personal protective equipment including, but not limited to, the following with average fatigue:

  • Negative pressure respirator
  • Positive pressure respirator
  • Self-contained breathing apparatus (steel or composite bottle)
  • Hardhat
  • Approved safety shoes
  • Eye protection
  • Rubber suit and gloves
  • Chemical resistant suit
  • Heat resistant outerwear
  • Flame resistant outerwear
  • Approved hearing protection
  • Gloves
  • Safety harness

What You'll Enjoy:

  • Industry leading benefits
  • Multiple and flexible medical plans
  • Outstanding PTO program
  • Floating Holidays
  • Strong 401k program and company match
  • Tuition reimbursement plan
  • College loan reimbursement
  • College scholarship program for dependents
  • Parental Leave Program
  • Inclusive culture
  • Employee engagement events
  • Employee resource groups
WIN Waste Innovations is a waste management company committed to delivering essential waste management solutions to customers and communities supported by our team of 2,100 employees. We believe in preserving our environment for future generations while providing for today's needs. WIN Waste Innovations is a vertically integrated business with a platform of 50 strategically located collection, transfer, and disposal assets. These include waste-to-energy facilities, transfer stations, ash monofills, landfills, and fleets of rail cars and collection vehicles. We process more than 11 million tons of waste annually, converting 6.7 million tons of waste into clean, renewable energy that powers 340,000 homes. We recycle more than 234,000 tons of plastic, paper, and metals from the waste stream.
At WIN Waste Innovations, each eligible employee receives a competitive total compensation package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance and Short Term Disability. As well as Company match on 401K, and more! Our employees also receive Paid Vacation, Holidays, and Personal Days. Please note that benefits may vary by site. Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Protected Veterans/Disabled.

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