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Plant Operator Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Plant Operator

Sumner, WA ยท On-site

$32 - $42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and plant performance * Maintain strict safety compliance while following all environmental ...

Plant Operator

Sumner, WA ยท On-site

$32 - $42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and plant performance * Maintain strict safety compliance while following all environmental ...

Steam Plant Operator

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$40/hr

The Operator will perform all duties as assigned by the Shift Engineer. * Monitors the plant control system via computer screens. * Starting and stopping plant equipment as needed; diagnosing and ...

Batch Plant Operator

Renton, WA ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Stoneway Concrete, a division of Gary merlino is seeking a BATCH PLANT OPERATOR for their facility in Seattle. Position Summary Experienced heavy equipment operator with batching experience - general ...

Batch Plant Operator

Renton, WA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Stoneway Concrete, a division of Gary merlino is seeking a BATCH PLANT OPERATOR for their facility in Seattle. Position Summary Experienced heavy equipment operator with batching experience - general ...

New

Power Plant Operator A

Kent, WA ยท On-site

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Tukwila, WA

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Auburn, WA

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Puyallup, WA ยท On-site

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Kent, WA

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Everett, Washington. As a Power ...

Power Plant Operator A

Everett, WA

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Everett, Washington. As a Power ...

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Renton, WA ยท On-site

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Auburn, WA ยท On-site

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Tukwila, WA ยท On-site

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Seattle, WA

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Puyallup, WA

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Seattle, Auburn, Puyallop, Renton ...

Power Plant Operator A

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$60.92/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Power Plant Operator A Company: The Boeing Company Boeing Commercial Airplanes is excited to offer opportunities for a Power Plant Operators A, to join our team in Everett, Washington. As a Power ...

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Showing results 1-20

Plant Operator information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$15

$25

$45

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Seattle, WA is $25.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $28.70 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 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 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 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 be demanding and may involve shift work to maintain continuous operations.

How much do plant operators make?

Plant operators in Florida typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry sector. Skilled operators with certifications such as OSHA or EPA may earn higher wages, especially in industrial or power plant environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Plant Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,942 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Plant Operator

Heidelbergmaterials

Sumner, WA โ€ข On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Line of Business: Other

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. and Canada with approximately 9,000 employees.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Operate and monitor fixed plant and processing equipment, including crushers, screens, wash plants, and filter press plants, to ensure safe and efficient production
  • Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and basic troubleshooting to maximize equipment reliability and minimize downtime
  • Adjust operating controls and process settings to optimize product quality, production targets, and plant performance
  • Maintain strict safety compliance while following all environmental, operational, and company procedures
  • Communicate effectively with team members to coordinate work activities and resolve operational issues

What Are We Looking For

  • Experience safely operating industrial, aggregate, or processing plant equipment with a strong commitment to safety and compliance
  • Knowledge of fixed plant and processing machinery, including crushers, screens, wash plants, and filter press plants
  • Experience performing routine preventive maintenance, inspections, and basic mechanical troubleshooting
  • Hands-on experience with heavy mobile equipment such as loaders, haul trucks, excavators, and water trucks is preferred; candidates willing to learn are encouraged to apply
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to work independently, collaborate with a team, and adapt to changing operational needs

Conditions of Employment

  • Successful candidate must submit to post-offer pre-employment physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check
  • Some positions require FMCSA regulated ongoing drug and alcohol testing
  • Applicants must be 18 years of age or older to apply. Verification of age will be required as a condition of employment

Work Environment

  • Role operates primarily in environments where the conditions include moving mechanical equipment, inclement weather, heat, cold, humidity, and elevated noise level.
  • Able to work morning, afternoon and some nights when needed

What We Offer

  • $32.00 to $42.00 per hour
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with an automatic company contribution as well as matching contributions
  • Highly competitive benefits programs, including:
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision along with Prescription Drug Benefits
    • Health Saving Savings Account (HSA), Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
    • AD&D, Short- and Long-Term Disability Coverage as well as Basic Life Insurance
    • Paid Bonding Leave, 10 days of Paid Vacation, 40 hours of Paid Sick Leave and 10 Paid Holidays

Equal Opportunity Employer - Minority / Female / Veteran / Disabled