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Plant Operator Jobs in Ruston, LA (NOW HIRING)

Johns Manville

Maintenance Technician

Ruston, LA · On-site

$27.20 - $30.72/hr

... to established operating procedures. The employee must perform the following duties while ... Must know, understand, and perform all plant and departmental safety regulations and procedures and ...

Johns Manville

Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

Ruston, LA · On-site

$27.20 - $30.72/hr

... to established operating procedures. The employee must perform the following duties while ... Must know, understand, and perform all plant and departmental safety regulations and procedures and ...

Johns Manville

Maintenance Mechanic - Hiring Now

Ruston, LA · On-site

$27.20 - $30.72/hr

... to established operating procedures. The employee must perform the following duties while ... Must know, understand, and perform all plant and departmental safety regulations and procedures and ...

Johns Manville

Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

Ruston, LA · On-site

$27.20/hr

... to established operating procedures. The employee must perform the following duties while ... Must know, understand, and perform all plant and departmental safety regulations and procedures and ...

Jm

Industrial Maintenance Mechanic

Ruston, LA · On-site

$27.20/hr

... to established operating procedures. The employee must perform the following duties while ... Must know, understand, and perform all plant and departmental safety regulations and procedures ...

HBK Engineering, LLC

Field Lead

West Monroe, LA · On-site

Perform make ready engineering for aerial plant * Records survey measurements and descriptive data ... Positions and holds vertical rods, or targets that Total Station operators use for sighting to ...

Energy Transfer Equity Lp

Mechanic

Ruston, LA · On-site

... plant facilities and pipeline facilities including: prime movers and compressors, valves, filters ... Utilize precision measurement equipment to determine dimensions and set operating equipment ...

Energy Transfer Equity Lp

Mechanic

Ruston, LA · On-site

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

... plant facilities and pipeline facilities including: prime movers and compressors, valves, filters ... Utilize precision measurement equipment to determine dimensions and set operating equipment ...

Energy Transfer

Mechanic

Ruston, LA

... plant facilities and pipeline facilities including: prime movers and compressors, valves, filters ... Utilize precision measurement equipment to determine dimensions and set operating equipment ...

Energy transfer

Mechanic

Ruston, LA · On-site

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

... plant facilities and pipeline facilities including: prime movers and compressors, valves, filters ... Utilize precision measurement equipment to determine dimensions and set operating equipment ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Jonesboro, LA

$78K - $94K/yr

... safe and reliable nuclear plant operation. What to Expect Assume significant technical ... operating plants at sea; balance long term engineering projects with time sensitive fleet and ...

Energy transfer

Mechanic

Ruston, LA · On-site

... plant facilities and pipeline facilities including: prime movers and compressors, valves, filters ... Utilize precision measurement equipment to determine dimensions and set operating equipment ...

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All JobsPlant Operator JobsPlant Operator Jobs in Ruston, LA

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.
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Plant Operator jobs near you
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.

CDL DRIVER WITH TANKER ENDORSEMENT - WEST MONROE, LA

The RGroup II

West Monroe, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Commercial Truck Driver (CDL Class A with Tanker Endorsement)

D&J Construction Company, a leading highway contractor in Louisiana, is seeking anexperienced and dependable CDL Class A Truck Driver with a Tanker Endorsement to join our team. This role involves operating a manual transmission (stick shift) water tanker truck and assisting with highway construction crew activities when not driving (up to 25% of the time).


This position requires prior cement industry experience and involves supporting cement-related operations, including dust control, slurry mixing, and water hauling to and from cement plants, construction sites, or industrial locations. Non-driving time a maximum of 25%


Key Responsibilities

  • Safely operate a CDL water tanker truck with manual (stick shift) transmission
  • Perform water hauling and delivery tasks specifically tied to cement operations
  • Support cement site needs such as:
    • Dust suppression
    • Mixing water for cement or slurry applications
    • Cleaning equipment and work areas
  • Load, transport, and unload water using pumps, hoses, and tanker systems
  • Conduct thorough pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip inspections
  • Maintain accurate logs, delivery tickets, and DOT-required documentation
  • Follow all safety procedures related to cement environments (silica dust, heavy equipment, etc.)
  • Communicate effectively with dispatch, plant personnel, and supervisors
  • Keep truck clean, maintained, and in safe operating condition
  • Report mechanical issues, hazards, or safety concerns immediately

Required Qualifications

  • Valid CDL Class A or B license
  • MUST have prior cement industry experience (required, not preferred)
  • Proven experience operating a manual transmission (stick shift) commercial vehicle
  • Clean driving record and strong safety background
  • Ability to pass DOT physical and drug/alcohol screening
  • Familiarity with tanker operations and heavy equipment environments

Preferred Experience

  • Cement plant, ready-mix, or construction material hauling experience
  • Water tanker experience in industrial or oilfield settings
  • Knowledge of cement handling processes and site safety protocols
  • Experience working around loaders, mixers, and heavy machinery

Job Requirements

  • Valid CDL Class A license with Tanker Endorsement.
  • 1 year of recent commercial truck driving experience.
  • No serious citations within the last 5 years.
  • No DWI/DUI within the last 10 years.
  • Prior experience hauling construction materials preferred.
  • Ability to perform light highway construction tasks as needed.
  • Must be safety-conscious and comply with all DOT and company regulations.

Skills and Abilities

  • Strong proficiency with manual transmission driving
  • Experience working in cement-related environments (required)
  • Ability to safely maneuver large tanker trucks in tight job sites
  • Strong attention to safety and detail
  • Dependable, punctual, and able to work independently
  • Good communication and teamwork skills

Work Environment

  • Cement plants, construction sites, and industrial locations
  • Exposure to dust, noise, heat, and heavy equipment
  • May require overtime, early start times, and weekend work

Compensation & Benefits

Employee & Family Benefits:

  • Competitive Pay - Paid weekly.
  • Home Nightly - Minimal night shifts required.
  • Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance available for employees and families.
  • 401K Plan with Employer Match.
  • Disability and Life Insurance options available.
  • Late-Model Trucks - Well-maintained fleet for safety and comfort.


Additional Information & Requirements

  • Work hours vary based on seasonal workload, with primarily daytime 10-12 hour shifts.
  • Monday through Friday schedule with some Saturday work required.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Must have a valid email address for communication.
  • Pre-employment drug screening required.
  • Must be registered with the FMCSA Clearinghouse.


D&J Construction Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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