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Plant Operator Jobs in Slidell, LA (NOW HIRING)

Plant Operator

Mandeville, LA ยท On-site

$18 - $21/hr

This position will serve as a Plant Operator with primary responsibilities to include but not limited to: delivering bins to new customers, repair existing bins in the field, process used cooking oil ...

Plant Manager

Madisonville, LA ยท On-site

$140K/yr

Work Experience & Skills Essential: โ€ข Proven 5+ years of experience working in plant operations. โ€ข Good understanding of regulatory requirements for operating plants. โ€ข Strong aptitude for root ...

Plant Manager (LA)

Covington, LA ยท On-site

$135K - $155K/yr

We are conducting a search for a Plant Manager for a food/beverage manufacturer in Louisiana.Candidate should have a BS degree in Business Management or a related field and at least 5 10 years ...

We offer a wide range of services and turnkey solutions, as well as design and specialty services uniquely applicable to the needs of customers ranging from nuclear power plant operators to heavy ...

Capability to perform basic security officer duties, including patrolling, writing reports, maintaining logs, operating surveillance systems, and providing exceptional customer service while ...

Operator - Plastics (Night Shift)

New Orleans, LA ยท On-site

$16 - $19.50/hr

C., and a global provider of conveyance solutions and services, has a position open for an Operator in our Harahan plant. This person will work with a Processor Technician to manufacture plastic ...

We offer a wide range of services and turnkey solutions, as well as design and specialty services uniquely applicable to the needs of customers ranging from nuclear power plant operators to heavy ...

SUE Operator

Covington, LA ยท On-site

$15 - $19.75/hr

E. OPERATOR Reports to: Business Unit Leader FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt Travel: 90% Purpose Under the supervision of a Licensed Surveyor, the S.U.E operator will lead all investigation ...

Forklift Operator Shift: Night Shift Hours: 6:00PM to 6:00AM Days: Rotating Days Pay: $20.40 per hour + $1.00 shift differential Required Qualifications: Minimum of 6 months MHE experience. Preferred ...

Forklift Operator

Lacombe, LA ยท On-site

$20.40/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: Night Shift Hours: 6:00PM to 6:00AM Days: Rotating Days Pay: $20.40 per hour + $1.00 shift differential Required Qualifications: Minimum of 6 months MHE experience. Preferred ...

Forklift Operator

Lacombe, LA ยท On-site

$20.40/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 3rd Shift Hours: 6:00pm - 6:00am, rotating schedule Days: Monday to Friday Pay: $20.40 per hour + $1.00 shift differential Required Qualifications: Ability to lift 50 pounds ...

Forklift Operator

Lacombe, LA ยท On-site

$20.40/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 3rd Shift Hours: 6:00pm - 6:00am, rotating schedule Days: Monday to Friday Pay: $20.40 per hour + $1.00 shift differential Required Qualifications: Ability to lift 50 pounds ...

Forklift Operator

Lacombe, LA ยท On-site

$20.40/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 1st Shift Hours: 6:00am - 6:00pm, rotating schedule Days: Monday to Friday Pay: $20.40 per hour Required Qualifications: Ability to lift 50 pounds, ability to work in a non ...

Forklift Operator

Lacombe, LA ยท On-site

$20.40/hr

Forklift Operator Shift: 3rd Shift Hours: 6:00pm - 6:00am, rotating schedule Days: Monday to Friday Pay: $20.40 per hour + $1.00 shift differential Required Qualifications: Ability to lift 50 pounds ...

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Plant Operator information

See Slidell, LA salary details

$11

$19

$34

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in Slidell, LA is $19.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $21.88 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 Slidell, LA?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in Slidell, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,314 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Plant Operator

Northern Gulf Services

Mandeville, LA โ€ข On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Flexible schedule
  • Free uniforms
  • Opportunity for advancement

About Northern Gulf Services:
 
Northern Gulf and its affiliated entities is/are a renewable fuel logistics and distribution company(s), focused on aggregating, separating and selling used-cooking oil (“UCO”) along the Gulf coast. The company seeks to make a positive impact on the local community and environment. Our business places collection bins at customer locations to collect UCO and grease from cooking and food production operations. Representative customers include: restaurants, stadiums, institutions and food manufacturing facilities.
Job description:
 
This position will serve as a Plant Operator with primary responsibilities to include but not limited to: delivering bins to new customers, repair existing bins in the field, process used cooking oil within the plant, conduct warehouse preventive maintenance, diagnosis, repair and install internal pump systems used to pull UCO from fryers and support the overall mission of the Operations Team.
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • CDL Class B License (Preferred)
  • Tanker Endorsement (Optional)
  • One year of Class B driving experience (Preferred)
  • 1 - 3 years of experience in plant operations role (Preferred)
  • Maintenance / mechanical aptitude 
  • Handyman skills 
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Oversee and maintain the plant processing operations, to include all offloading, processing, and outbound load standard operating procedures and controls.
  • Diagnosis, repair and install internal pump systems at restaurant, gas stations and other facilities the produce UCO.
  • Helps to implement and maintain plant maintenance and upgrades, record tracking and submission.
  • Help to implement and maintain plant safety protocols, following best practices.
  • Help to implement and maintain reporting systems for all used cooking oil inventory, supplies inventory and tool inventory.
  • Maintains the plant and yard in good working order, ensuring that all plant processes and guidelines are being maintained.
  • Supports the Market Director in the general supervision, improvement, and growth of the market’s plant.
  • Maintains bin inventory, including the cleaning and minor repair of collection bins.
  • Cleans trucks and reports any concerns or potential issues to location management.
BENEFITS:
  • Hourly schedule, consistent work
  • Adequate tools and equipment
  • Opportunity for upward mobility
Compensation: $18.00 - $21.00 per hour
This is a part-time position (24-28 Hours per week)