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Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Martin Marietta is seeking a Plant Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual will be responsible for safely and efficiently ...

Plant Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

The Plant Operator will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Plant Operator will be required to ensure all equipment runs properly ...

The Plant Operator will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Plant Operator will be required to ensure all equipment runs properly ...

Overview This position is responsible for safely monitoring, operating, and maintaining plant equipment to ensure efficient production while maintaining environmental and safety compliance. Ideal ...

This position is responsible for safely monitoring, operating, and maintaining plant equipment to ensure efficient production while maintaining environmental and safety compliance. Ideal candidates ...

Overview This position is responsible for safely monitoring, operating, and maintaining plant equipment to ensure efficient production while maintaining environmental and safety compliance. Ideal ...

Overview This position is responsible for safely monitoring, operating, and maintaining plant equipment to ensure efficient production while maintaining environmental and safety compliance. Ideal ...

Plant Operator

Malaga, NM · On-site

$55 - $85/hr

Overview This position is responsible for safely monitoring, operating, and maintaining plant equipment to ensure efficient production while maintaining environmental and safety compliance. Ideal ...

Plant Operator

Kosse, TX · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Plant Operators are solely responsible for the safe and efficient production of raw aggregate material into finished products. This entails operating a crush, wash, or sand plant by loading material ...

This position will also serve as a back-up to Plant Operator I by controlling plant equipment and operations in a full-automated/computer-operated rock crushing plant. Key Duties and Responsibilities:

The Plant Operator will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Plant Operator will be required to ensure all equipment runs properly ...

This position will also serve as a back-up to Plant Operator I by controlling plant equipment and operations in a full-automated/computer-operated rock crushing plant. Key Duties and Responsibilities:

The Asphalt Plant Operator will be responsible for operating plant controls to weigh and deliver specified quantities of aggregates and asphalt cement to the dryer for heating, and to the mixer for ...

The Plant Operator will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Plant Operator will be required to ensure all equipment runs properly ...

The Plant Operator will be responsible for the daily operations of a sophisticated automated wastewater pretreatment plant. The Plant Operator will be required to ensure all equipment runs properly ...

Plant Operator

Kosse, TX · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Plant Operators are solely responsible for the safe and efficient production of raw aggregate material into finished products. This entails operating a crush, wash, or sand plant by loading material ...

Showing results 21-40

Plant Operator information

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$13

$22

$39

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 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 cities are hiring for Plant Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Plant Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Plant Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Plant Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

What to expect:

Martin Marietta is seeking a Plant Operator to join our team. The ideal individual will be safety conscious, dependable, and motivated. This individual will be responsible for safely and efficiently starting and regulating plant processing equipment. The Plant Operator will run and monitor plant operations from a centralized location under the direction of the Plant Manager and Foreman. Hours are Monday - Friday 5:00 am - 3:00 pm, including weekends and overtime as necessary.

A typical day for a(n) Plant Operator may include:

  • Starting, monitoring, and regulating plant processing equipment within the company guidelines and safety standards
  • Adjusting equipment programming to maximize production
  • Generating work requests using maintenance planning program
  • Maintaining daily production reports and exchanges relevant information with others daily
  • Monitoring/Maintaining load out area and operates mobile equipment as needed
  • Operating other mobile and plant equipment, including skid steer, front end loader, etc. in a safe manner if needed
  • Conducting pre-shift equipment/plant inspections and completes required paperwork accurately
  • Aiding in plant operation and repairs to plant equipment
  • Maintaining housekeeping in areas of responsibility
  • Aiding in the training of co-workers as needed
  • Performing other duties as assigned by supervisor

You may be a good fit if you:

  • Possess a High School Diploma, GED or equivalent experience to perform the responsibilities associated with this position
  • Have experience in the building materials industry (preferred)

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About Martin Marietta

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Martin Marietta is an American-based company and a leading supplier of building materials - including aggregates, cement, ready mixed concrete and asphalt.

Industry

Coal, metals and minerals mining

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1994