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Plant Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Pencco, Inc

Plant Operator

Middlesex, NC · On-site

$20/hr

The Plant Operator is essential to maintaining the efficiency and safety of production operations. Responsibilities include handling and monitoring chemicals and accurately recording data. The role ...

Pencco, Inc

Plant Operator

Middlesex, NC · On-site

$20/hr

The Plant Operator is essential to maintaining the efficiency and safety of production operations. Responsibilities include handling and monitoring chemicals and accurately recording data. The role ...

PENCCO, Inc

Plant Operator

Middlesex, NC

$20/hr

The Plant Operator is essential to maintaining the efficiency and safety of production operations. Responsibilities include handling and monitoring chemicals and accurately recording data. The role ...

bp

Plant Operator

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

Operations Group About Archaea Archaea Energy, a leader in the landfill gas to energy industry has an immediate opening for a Plant Operator/Technician at our Johnston Land Fill Gas to Electric Plant ...

Heidelbergmaterials

Plant Operator I

Sims, NC · On-site

$22 - $28.75/hr

Aggregates Plant Operator I About Us Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest suppliers of building materials. Heidelberg Materials North America operates over 450 locations across the U.S ...

NCSU

Utilities Plant Operator - Night Shift

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Job Posting Information Posting Number PG194991SP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Utilities Plant Operator - Night Shift Anticipated Hiring Range $55,000 - $60,000 Work Schedule 12 hour shift ...

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All JobsPlant Operator JobsPlant Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Plant Operator information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$21

$38

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Raleigh, NC is $21.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $24.52 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 jobs pay $250 an hour?

Plant operators in specialized industries such as oil and gas, nuclear, or chemical plants can earn around $250 an hour, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-risk environments. These roles often require advanced technical skills, safety training, and sometimes shift work or overtime. Compensation varies based on location, industry, and level of expertise.

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 are plant operators?

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 involve shift work and adherence to safety protocols.

How much do plant operators make?

Plant operators in Louisiana typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. They often require knowledge of control systems, safety protocols, and equipment operation, with some positions offering overtime or shift differentials.

How do I become a plant operator?

To become a plant operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical schooling in plant operations or process technology. Many employers require certification or licensing, such as a state-issued license or operator certification, and strong mechanical and technical skills are essential for managing equipment and safety protocols.
More about Plant Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Plant Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plant Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Plant Operator jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Plant Operator job openings:
Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,222 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Asphalt Plant Operator

Asphalt Plant Operator

Blythe Construction Inc

Raleigh, NC

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Blythe Construction rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Asphalt Plant Operator

General Description

An Asphalt Plant Operator is responsible for start-up and operation of hot mix asphalt mixing plants.  Process involves placing raw aggregate and liquid asphalt materials through the mixing drum to be stored in silos until ready for load-out on trucks for delivery to job sites.

 

Key Duties

  • Operate plant and load trucks
  • Assist to ensure that all safety policies are followed and implemented
  • Work with Quality Control Department to ensure a quality mix is produced
  • Assist Plant Foreman in ordering materials needed for plant operation
  • Assist Plant Foreman with stockpile management
  • Maintain all required paperwork
  • Communicate with road crews on an hourly and daily basis
  • Assist with plant maintenance
  • Operate loader when needed
  • Help maintain cleanliness of the plant site
  • Must be willing to work Nights and Weekends
  • Must be able to read, comprehend manuals and directives
  • Able to adjust to heights
  • Must be willing to help out as needed
  • Able to calculate basic math
  • Basic computer knowledge
  • Must have a positive attitude and eager to learn new tasks
  • Welding experience is a plus
  • Electrical/Electronics experience is a plus
  • Perform incidental work items and duties included within other crafts

Qualification Requirements

  • To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each Key Duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Education and Experience.  This position typically is not an entry-level job, as it requires previous experience as an Asphalt Plant Operator.
    • A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) is preferred. 
    • Must be able to understand work directions and communicate effectively with job site supervisors and fellow employees.
    • Three (3) to Five (5) years or more of industry related experience is required for this position, with an emphasis on Asphalt Plant Operations.
  • Physical Demands.  The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an Asphalt Plant Operator to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. 
    • Constant physical effort, including standing, is required during a regular work shift of at least eight hours per day.  Employee must be able to stand for extended periods of time, and to stoop, bend, and crouch as required to perform Key Duties.
    • Ability to lift and carry, on a frequent basis, at least 50 pounds personally, and up to 150 pounds with assistance.
    • Maintain constant alertness to the multiple concurrent activities of the asphalt/plant construction site, including the activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment.
    • The Operator must be able to climb on and off heavy mobile equipment safely.
  • Work Environment.  The work environment characteristics described below are representative of those that an Asphalt Plant Operator encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. 
    • Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions.
    • Work environment periodically exposes the employees to high levels of noise, grease, and dust that is typically associated with a construction project. 
    • Employee regularly works near heavy equipment and moving machinery.
    • Work may involve a variety of substances commonly found on construction sites such as form oil, grease, curing compounds, gasoline, diesel fuel and ready mixed concrete.

Company Benefits

  • Company Paid Basic Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long Term Disability Policy
  • Company Paid Vacation & Holiday Pay
  • Company Paid Parental Leave
  • Company Paid Maternity Leave
  • Company Paid Employee/Family Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Voluntary Medical & Vision Insurance
  • Voluntary Dental Insurance
  • Voluntary Short Term Disability
  • Voluntary Supplemental Term Life
  • Voluntary Accident, Legal, Hospital, Critical Illness Policies
  • 401(k) Plan w/Employer Match
  • Annual Company Stock Purchase Opportunities
  • Discount Partnerships: Verizon, Ford, Perkspot
  • Health and Wellness Benefits, including Monthly Gym/Fitness Incentives

We promote a Drug-Free Workplace.

EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability are encouraged to apply.

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