1

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

Saranac, MI · On-site

$34 - $38/hr

Plant Operator The role of a Plant Operator is essential in maintaining operational efficiency and safety within the facility. This hands-on role combines equipment maintenance, troubleshooting ...

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 ...

Plant Operator Are you ready to play a vital role in keeping operations running smoothly at a busy plant? We're seeking a dedicated and skilled Plant Operator to join our team in Hobbs, NM. This is ...

The Plant Operator performs duties in compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, building standards, and hospital policies. The Plant Operator leads the physical plant team in the ...

We are seeking Plant Operators to support operations at a facility in Orla, TX. This role is responsible for monitoring and maintaining plant equipment, ensuring safe and efficient production, and ...

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 performs duties in compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements, building standards, and hospital policies. The Plant Operator leads the physical plant team in the ...

Plant Operator

Huntsville, MO · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

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:

Plant Operator

Onaga, KS · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

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:

NM · On-site

The Plant Operator will be responsible for supporting the safe, reliable, and efficient operations of the Helium Processing Center located at the DBK Helium Field in Red Valley, AZ

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 ...

Plant Operator

Huntsville, MO · On-site

$20 - $21.50/hr

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:

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:

next page

Showing results 1-20

Plant Operator information

See salary details

$13

$22

$39

How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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 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 jobs pay $250 an hour?

Plant operators in specialized industries such as oil and gas, nuclear, or chemical plants can earn around $250 an hour, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and working in high-risk environments. These roles often require advanced technical skills, safety training, and sometimes shift work or overtime. Compensation varies based on location, industry, and level of expertise.

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 are plant operators?

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 involve shift work and adherence to safety protocols.

How much do plant operators make?

Plant operators in Louisiana typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. They often require knowledge of control systems, safety protocols, and equipment operation, with some positions offering overtime or shift differentials.

How do I become a plant operator?

To become a plant operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical schooling in plant operations or process technology. Many employers require certification or licensing, such as a state-issued license or operator certification, and strong mechanical and technical skills are essential for managing equipment and safety protocols.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% 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.
Plant Operator

Plant Operator

Martin Marietta

Warrenton, GA

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Martin Marietta Materials rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

346th of 528 rated manufacturers


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 6:00 am - 6:00 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)

What Martin Marietta Materials employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Martin Marietta logo

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