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Plant Operator Jobs in Ruston, LA (NOW HIRING)

Plant Manager

Ruston, LA ยท On-site

$80 - $120/hr

Plant Manager Job Family: Manufacturing Business Area: Pulp & Paper Service Contract Location ... Develops manufacturing plans with operating and capital budgets. Structures and manages staff to ...

New

JOB PROFILE PLANT MANAGER Working location: Ruston, LA, USA General Description Plans, organizes ... Develops manufacturing plans with operating and capital budgets. Structures and manages staff to ...

Plant Maintenance Mechanic

West Monroe, LA ยท On-site

$22 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

... plant in the areas of Safety, Quality, and Reliability. You will demonstrate the company's core ... members & operators to ensure the daily production schedule is met. ยท Communicate daily with ...

Plant Manager

Ruston, LA ยท On-site

$120 - $160/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Plant Manager 120000 - 160000 per year | Ruston, LA | On-Site | Permanent A bit about us Our company, a leading player in the manufacturing industry, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Plant ...

New

Finishing Operator - Ovens

Ruston, LA ยท On-site

$19.02/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating procedures, performs the following duties while cooperating with all levels within the ... Must know, understand, and perform all plant and departmental safety regulations and procedures and ...

Finishing Operator - Ovens

Ruston, LA ยท On-site

$19.02/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must know, understand, and perform all plant and departmental safety regulations and procedures ... Responsible for operating in conformance with the ISO certification held by the Ruston facility

Front End Loader Operator - West Monroe

West Monroe, LA ยท On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Position Overview We are seeking a skilled Front End Loader Operator to join our ready-mix plant team in West Monroe, LA. The operator will primarily use a 600 or 700 series loader to manage raw ...

Front End Loader Operator - West Monroe, LA

West Monroe, LA ยท On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

This position involves operating a Caterpillar 980/988 series loader to handle aggregate stockpiles, load bins, and support asphalt plant operations. The ideal candidate will have prior aggregate ...

Mold Line Operator 1

Ruston, LA ยท On-site

$21.68/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... operating procedures, performs the following duties while cooperating with all levels within the ... Must know, understand, and perform all plant and departmental safety regulations and procedures and ...

Mold Line Operator 1

Ruston, LA ยท On-site

$21.68/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must know, understand, and perform all plant and departmental safety regulations and procedures ... shadowing anexperienced operator * Responsible foroperatingin conformance with the ISO ...

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

West Monroe, LA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Heavy Equipment Operator - Dozer, Trackhoe, and Motor Grader D&J Construction Company, a leading highway contractor in Louisiana, is seeking skilled and experienced Heavy Equipment Operators to join ...

New

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

West Monroe, LA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Heavy Equipment Operator - Dozer, Trackhoe, and Motor Grader D&J Construction Company, a leading highway contractor in Louisiana, is seekingskilled and experienced Heavy Equipment Operatorsto join ...

New

ASHPALT QUALITY CONTROL TECHNICIAN - NELA

West Monroe, LA ยท On-site

$18 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position involves working closely with paving crews, plant quality control, and supervisors to ... Communicate effectively with asphalt foremen, superintendents, and roller operators to establish ...

ASHPALT QUALITY CONTROL TECHNICIAN - NELA

West Monroe, LA ยท On-site

$18 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position involves working closely with paving crews, plant quality control, and supervisors to ... Communicate effectively with asphalt foremen, superintendents, and roller operators to establish ...

ASHPALT QUALITY CONTROL TECHNICIAN - NELA

West Monroe, LA ยท On-site

$18 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This position involves working closely with paving crews, plant quality control, and supervisors to ... Communicate effectively with asphalt foremen, superintendents, and roller operators to establish ...

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Plant Operator information

See Ruston, LA salary details

$11

$18

$32

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Ruston, LA is $18.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $20.38 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.

What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator jobs in Ruston, LA?

For Plant Operator jobs in Ruston, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plant Operator jobs in Ruston, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Plant Operator jobs in Ruston, LA are:

What cities near Ruston, LA are hiring for Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Ruston, LA with the most Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Ruston, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,553 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Plant Manager

Andritz AG

Ruston, LA โ€ข On-site

$80 - $120/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Job Title: Plant Manager

Job Family: Manufacturing

Business Area: Pulp & Paper Service

Contract Location: Ruston, LA, US

Working Location: Ruston, LA, US

Location Type: Office Location / Office-based

Contract Type: Permanent

General Description

Plans, organizes, staffs, and directs all activities necessary to safely manufacture a quality product, and efficiently operate the plant.

Job Responsibilities and Tasks
  • Responsible for the profitable operation of the plant. Ensures that all orders are completed within the required quality, time, cost parameters, and to the satisfaction of customers.
  • Responsible for all functions within the plant including production, accounting, P&L, budget, quality control, customer service, and maintenance. Oversees all aspects of production, assisted by department members.
  • Maintaining a work environment and practices that are safe, environmentally sound, and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
  • Develop a teamwork-based, customer-focused, and responsive workforce.
  • Oversee quality systems and ISO compliance.
  • Oversee continuous improvement in all focus areas.
  • Oversee selection, training, development, and discipline of plant employees. Ensures personnel actions are fairly and consistent with written policies and in compliance with all laws and regulations.
  • Develops manufacturing plans with operating and capital budgets. Structures and manages staff to achieve planned results.
  • Communicates any applicable information effectively to employees.
  • Responsible for long term strategic manufacturing plans for the plant.
Qualification Requirements
  • Education: Four-year degree or equivalent.
  • Experience: 5-10 years of experience in a manufacturing environment and working knowledge of administrative and plant engineering functions. Knowledge of product requirements, planning and organizational techniques, labor and safety laws, TQM and ISO knowledge, continuous improvement practices, human relations techniques, and leadership skills.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.

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