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Plant Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Comar

Plant Controller

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$120K/yr

Prepare periodic reports and various communications including operational and financial performance evaluations, periodic forecasts, annual operating plans, strategic and plant capacity plans, and ...

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Assists with the maintenance of plant equipment and facilities * Performs water level measurements ...

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Assists with the maintenance of plant equipment and facilities * Performs water level measurements ...

Apply Early

Essel

Water Supply Operator I

Pomona, CA · On-site

The Water Supply Operator I is an entry-level position requiring immediate to general supervision ... Assists with the maintenance of plant equipment and facilities * Performs water level measurements ...

Arcosa LWB, LLC

Utility Operator

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$36.44 - $44.67/hr

Fills in for the Plant Operator or Loader Operator when regular staff are out * Follows all company policies and procedures in accordance with guidelines established by Arcosa management * Ensure ...

Arcosa Lightweight

Utility Operator

Bloomington, CA · On-site

$36.44 - $44.67/hr

Fills in for the Plant Operator or Loader Operator when regular staff are out * Follows all company policies and procedures in accordance with guidelines established by Arcosa management * Ensure ...

Martin Marietta

Dozer Operator

Corona, CA

$29 - $35/hr

Operating under moderate supervision, this individual is expected to demonstrate advanced ... Safely operate a variety of heavy equipment to transport raw materials from the pit to the plant at ...

Martin Marietta

Dozer Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

$29 - $35/hr

Operating under moderate supervision, this individual is expected to demonstrate advanced ... Safely operate a variety of heavy equipment to transport raw materials from the pit to the plant at ...

Martin Marietta

Dozer Operator

Corona, CA

$29 - $35/hr

Operating under moderate supervision, this individual is expected to demonstrate advanced ... Safely operate a variety of heavy equipment to transport raw materials from the pit to the plant at ...

Apply Early

Martin Marietta

Dozer Operator

Corona, CA · On-site

Operating under moderate supervision, this individual is expected to demonstrate advanced ... Safely operate a variety of heavy equipment to transport raw materials from the pit to the plant at ...

Martin Marietta Materials

Dozer Operator

Corona, CA

$29 - $35/hr

Operating under moderate supervision, this individual is expected to demonstrate advanced ... Safely operate a variety of heavy equipment to transport raw materials from the pit to the plant at ...

NRG

Plant Manager

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

The Plant Manager assures that the plant is operated in compliance with applicable safety, environmental, and other regulatory requirements. Essential Duties/Responsibilities: * Provides first line ...

DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA

Plant Manager

Riverside, CA · On-site

Manage the overall operating budget including capital and expense projects. Direct personnel ... Manage plant operations in all areas of responsibility including administration, production ...

Dairiconcepts, L.P.

Plant Manager

Riverside, CA

Manage the overall operating budget including capital and expense projects. Direct personnel ... Manage plant operations in all areas of responsibility including administration, production ...

Guida's Dairy

Plant Manager

Riverside, CA

Manage the overall operating budget including capital and expense projects. Direct personnel ... Manage plant operations in all areas of responsibility including administration, production ...

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All JobsPlant Operator JobsPlant Operator Jobs in Riverside, CA

Plant Operator information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$23

$41

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Riverside, CA is $23.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $26.35 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 Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator jobs in Riverside, CA? For Plant Operator jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Plant Operator jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Operator jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Plant Operator jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Plant Operator job openings:
Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,534 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Plant Controller

Plant Controller

Comar

Rancho Cucamonga, CA • On-site

$120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 8 hours ago

Comar rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 112 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

Position Overview:
The Plant Controller is responsible for the overall management of accounting and financial reporting for their respective facility. This position requires a person who understands manufacturing processes and systems, and the challenges that are associated with the relevant measurement of these environments.
The Plant Controller is involved in most aspects of the plant's local operations. The Plant Controller is not only the financial team leader, but also an overall leader of, and strategic business partner to, the entire plant staff. The successful candidate will be expected to act as a trusted advisor to facility General Manager.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Prepare periodic reports and various communications including operational and financial performance evaluations, periodic forecasts, annual operating plans, strategic and plant capacity plans, and other ad hoc reports as required by Management.
  • Manage and oversee preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and capital budgets.
  • Manage the budgeting and forecasting process for plant operations and take a lead role in quarterly re-forecasts.
  • Prepare monthly variance analysis to provide an understanding of the financial results compared to budget and forecast including but not limited to material usage, labor, spending, purchase price, etc.
  • Prepare for and participate in weekly plant metrics calls with Corporate, as well as monthly financial reporting calls.
  • Responsible for the overall internal control environment at the plant level.
  • Prepare customer analysis to assist in the determination of customer profitability.
  • Drive overall efficiency improvements in the facility including administrative processes, computer system implementations and operating processes.
  • Maintain all standard cost systems.
  • Closely monitor and follow up on inventory cycle counts to ensure the highest level of inventory accuracy as possible.
  • Work closely with the Plant Manager and Corporate operations personnel to monitor, control, and forecast costs and to identify critical costing issues and expected deviations from budget or forecast.
  • Perform regular reviews of the plant operations and financial performance with the Plant Manager and Corporate operations personnel to discuss production and costing issues; recommend and implement corrective action programs to improve plant operating and financial performance.
  • Perform ad hoc analysis and special projects as required by Corporate Finance or the Operations personnel.
  • Responsible for plant cash management including accounts receivable collections and accounts payable payments.
  • Supervise and manage plant accounting/administrative staff.
  • Ensure company accounting procedures conform to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • B.S. in Accounting or Finance.
  • Professional certification or designation is preferred.
  • 8+ years of public/private accounting experience.
  • Cost accounting experience is a plus.
  • Proven ability to manage and develop staff.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • High level of proficiency in Excel and familiarity with ERP systems is preferred.
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish, preferred.

Compensation
The compensation entry point for this role is $120,000 annually.
This position is eligible for a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, and additional ancillary benefits available upon request.
EEOC
Comar is an EOE/Veterans/Disabled/LGBT employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex or any other legally protected category. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Comar employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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About Comar

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Plastics product manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Voorhees Township, NJ, US

Year founded

1949

Social media

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