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Plant Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Utility Plant Solutions Inc

Be Seen First

Utility Plant Solutions - Boiler Technician

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

About Utility Plant Solutions Utility Plant Solutions provides start-up, installation, and commissioning of central utility plants using steam, hot water, and chill water. Work includes the operation ...

Utility Plant Solutions Inc

Be Seen First

Utility Plant Solutions - Boiler Technician

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

About Utility Plant Solutions Utility Plant Solutions provides start-up, installation, and commissioning of central utility plants using steam, hot water, and chill water. Work includes the operation ...

Mentor Technical Group

Utilities Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

Performs routine tasks relative to equipment operations as directed. * Assist Plant Operator in operations of plant controls as instructed. * Performs minor preventative maintenance of systems as ...

Mentor Technical Group

Utilities Operator

Durham, NC · On-site

Performs routine tasks relative to equipment operations as directed. * Assist Plant Operator in operations of plant controls as instructed. * Performs minor preventative maintenance of systems as ...

Linde

Plant Engineer

Research Triangle Park, NC · On-site

Troubleshoots plant process equipment problems and implements solutions * Executes various aspects ... You will assists in the development and review of standard operating procedures * Participates in ...

Linde Group

Plant Engineer

Research Triangle Park, NC · On-site

Troubleshoots plant process equipment problems and implements solutions * Executes various aspects ... You will assists in the development and review of standard operating procedures * Participates in ...

NCRWA

Plant Maintenance Technician

Durham, NC · On-site

$52.73 - $80/hr

This position is required to work a rotating on-call schedule to provide continual coverage of the wastewater treatment plant and may be subject to work after normal operating hours to meet the needs ...

Synerfac Technical Staffing

Plant Manager

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$170K - $190K/yr

Industry leading manufacturing company is seeking a Plant Manager to join their team! In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing all plant operations - production, quality, safety ...

SINNOVATEK SERVICES LLC

Plant Manager

Middlesex, NC · On-site

$135K - $155K/yr

As the Plant Manager, you will be responsible for managing all aspects of plant operations, including production, quality control, safety, maintenance, and employee development. Supervisory ...

iBoost Talent

Plant Manager

Clayton, NC · On-site

Plant Manager - Food Manufacturing Operations Clarkton, NC Overview iBoost Talent is seeking a highly engaged, hands-on Plant Manager to support a well-established food manufacturing operation in ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 7, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 2% 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.

Plant Operator/Equipment Operator- Lillington

Highland Paving Co LLC

Lillington, NC • On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Application Instructions
Complete all required information and submit. Make sure to include a working phone number so that we are able to contact you.
Position Description
Equipment Operator Responsibilities:
  • Ability to learn/operate computer/program
  • Experienced and safety-oriented Front-end Loader/Skid Steer Operator
  • Mechanically Inclined
  • Operates loader by shifting gears, levers & controls to direct movement & force bucket into materials
  • May service & make routine operational adjustments to equipment.
  • May make minor repairs to equipment.
  • Routine cleaning of equipment and work area.
  • Strictly adhere to Safety Requirements and Procedures as outlined in the Employee Handbook.

Equipment Operator Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Two years of experience preferred.
  • At least 21 years of age
  • Driver's License Preferred
  • Must have reliable method of transportation to and from the job site.

Job Benefits:
  • Wages starting at $18 an hour (increased based on experience)
  • Benefits available after 90 days of employment
  • 401k, Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, etc.
  • Paid Holidays/Vacation
  • Life insurance policy provided by the company

Position Requirements
Physical Demands:
  • Ability to stand, walk, and sit
  • Ability to use hands to feel objects, tools, or controls
  • Ability to climb stairs, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • Ability to communicate verbally
  • Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds or more
  • Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus

Work Environment:
  • This position requires working outdoors and driving in extreme heat/cold and possibly rainy weather.
  • Work locations may be subject to high winds, heavy rain, or snow. As well as extremely high and low temperatures depending on the season.

Equal Opportunity Employer
It is the policy of Highland Paving Co, LLC to assure that applicants are employed, and that employees are treated during employment, without regard to their race, religion, sex, color, national origin, age or disability. Such action shall include employment, upgrading, demotion, or transfer, recruitment or recruitment advertising, layoff or termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and selection for training, including apprenticeship, pre-apprenticeship, and/or on-the-job training.
Highland Paving Co LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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