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:
Quick apply
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 ...
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
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:
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
Huntsville, MO · On-site
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:
Quick apply
Plant Operator
Huntsville, MO · On-site
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
Auxvasse, MO · On-site
$20 - $22/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
Auxvasse, MO · On-site
$20 - $22/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
Jal, NM · On-site
Job Title: Plant Operator - Natural Gas Treating Location: Jal, NM Schedule: 8 & 6 Overview Candidates should have Plant Operating experience, ensuring all equipment stays running and is well ...
Plant Operator
Jal, NM · On-site
Job Title: Plant Operator - Natural Gas Treating Location: Jal, NM Schedule: 8 & 6 Overview Candidates should have Plant Operating experience, ensuring all equipment stays running and is well ...
Plant Operator
Nahunta, GA · On-site
The Plant Operator oversees the operational function for mining and mineral processing facilities operating 24-hours per day, 7-days per week to ensure peak plant performance. Through computer ...
Plant Operator
Nahunta, GA · On-site
The Plant Operator oversees the operational function for mining and mineral processing facilities operating 24-hours per day, 7-days per week to ensure peak plant performance. Through computer ...
Plant Operator ID: 2262 Location: Turkey, NC Department: Operations More about this job > Description Job title: Plant Operator Location: Turkey, NC MULTIPLE NIGHT SHIFT POSITIONS AVAILABLE! Company ...
Plant Operator ID: 2262 Location: Turkey, NC Department: Operations More about this job > Description Job title: Plant Operator Location: Turkey, NC MULTIPLE NIGHT SHIFT POSITIONS AVAILABLE! Company ...
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
Quick apply
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 supporting the safe, reliable, and efficient operations of the Helium Processing Center located at the DBK Helium Field in Red Valley, AZ
Quick apply
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
Plant Operator
Painesville, OH · On-site
Chemical Manufacturing Operato r Plant Operator (Technician II) OLON USA LLC is seeking qualified chemical manufacturing operator candidates to execute batch processes within the sites pilot plant ...
Quick apply
Plant Operator
Painesville, OH · On-site
Chemical Manufacturing Operato r Plant Operator (Technician II) OLON USA LLC is seeking qualified chemical manufacturing operator candidates to execute batch processes within the sites pilot plant ...
The Plant Operator oversees the operational function for mining and mineral processing facilities operating 24-hours per day, 7-days per week to ensure peak plant performance. Through computer ...
The Plant Operator oversees the operational function for mining and mineral processing facilities operating 24-hours per day, 7-days per week to ensure peak plant performance. Through computer ...
Plant Operator
Windsor, CO · On-site
$20/hr
Plant Operator - 12 Hour Shifts Location: Windsor, CO Pay Rate: $20.00 per hour Great company. Great people. Great benefits. We are seeking a motivated and reliable Plant Operator to join our team.
Quick apply
Plant Operator
Windsor, CO · On-site
$20/hr
Plant Operator - 12 Hour Shifts Location: Windsor, CO Pay Rate: $20.00 per hour Great company. Great people. Great benefits. We are seeking a motivated and reliable Plant Operator to join our team.
Plant Operator
Turkey, NC · On-site
Plant Operator ID: 2255 Location: Turkey, NC Department: Operations More about this job > Description Job title: Plant Operator Location: Turkey, NC MULTIPLE NIGHT SHIFT POSITIONS AVAILABLE! Company ...
Plant Operator
Turkey, NC · On-site
Plant Operator ID: 2255 Location: Turkey, NC Department: Operations More about this job > Description Job title: Plant Operator Location: Turkey, NC MULTIPLE NIGHT SHIFT POSITIONS AVAILABLE! Company ...
Join Amrize as a Plant Operator and help construct what's next. If you're ready to put your skills to work on projects that matter - and build a career with a company that's building North America ...
Join Amrize as a Plant Operator and help construct what's next. If you're ready to put your skills to work on projects that matter - and build a career with a company that's building North America ...
Plant Operator
Painesville, OH · On-site
Chemical Manufacturing Operato r Plant Operator (Technician II) OLON USA LLC is seeking qualified chemical manufacturing operator candidates to execute batch processes within the sites pilot plant ...
Quick apply
Plant Operator
Painesville, OH · On-site
Chemical Manufacturing Operato r Plant Operator (Technician II) OLON USA LLC is seeking qualified chemical manufacturing operator candidates to execute batch processes within the sites pilot plant ...
Plant Operator
$27 - $31/hr
Plant Operator ID: 2266 Location: Houston, TX Department: Operations More about this job > Description Location: Houston, TX Job Title: Plant Operator Non-Exempt Reports To: Plant Manager Salary: $27 ...
New
Plant Operator
$27 - $31/hr
Plant Operator ID: 2266 Location: Houston, TX Department: Operations More about this job > Description Location: Houston, TX Job Title: Plant Operator Non-Exempt Reports To: Plant Manager Salary: $27 ...
New
Plant Operator
Brillion, WI · On-site
Plant Operator LF Bioenergy Brillion, Wisconsin, United States (On-site) LF Bioenergy ("LF") is a privately held company that develops, constructs, and operates renewable natural gas ("RNG ...
Quick apply
Plant Operator
Brillion, WI · On-site
Plant Operator LF Bioenergy Brillion, Wisconsin, United States (On-site) LF Bioenergy ("LF") is a privately held company that develops, constructs, and operates renewable natural gas ("RNG ...
Plant Operator ID: 2260 Location: Amsterdam, OH Department: Operations More about this job > Description Job Title: Plant Operator Non-Exempt Reports To: Plant Manager Job Type: Full Time Company ...
Plant Operator ID: 2260 Location: Amsterdam, OH Department: Operations More about this job > Description Job Title: Plant Operator Non-Exempt Reports To: Plant Manager Job Type: Full Time Company ...
Plant Operator information
See salary details
$15.92 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$13.70 - $16.06
27% of jobs
$16.06 - $18.42
15% of jobs
The median wage is $19.87 / hr.
$18.42 - $20.78
14% of jobs
$20.78 - $23.14
16% of jobs
$23.97 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$23.14 - $25.50
11% of jobs
$25.50 - $27.86
9% of jobs
$27.86 - $30.22
4% of jobs
$30.22 - $32.58
2% of jobs
$32.58 - $34.94
1% of jobs
$34.94 - $37.30
1% of jobs
$37.30 - $39.66
1% of jobs
$13
$22
$39
How much do plant operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 26, 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 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 jobs pay $2000 a day?
Some high-paying roles for plant operators or related industrial positions can reach $2000 per day, especially for specialized roles such as senior plant operators, project managers, or consultants with extensive experience and certifications. These jobs often require advanced skills, safety training, and sometimes overtime or shift work in industries like oil and gas, chemical processing, or power generation.
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.
How to get a plant operator job?
To become a plant operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training, and sometimes a certification such as a boiler operator license. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions and developing skills in equipment operation and safety procedures are also important steps.
What is the difference between Plant Operator vs Equipment Operator?
| Aspect | Plant Operator | Equipment Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires a certification or license specific to plant operations | Often requires a commercial driver's license (CDL) or equipment-specific training |
| Work Environment | Operates machinery within industrial plants, power plants, or manufacturing facilities | Operates heavy machinery outdoors, such as bulldozers, cranes, or forklifts |
| Industry Usage | Common in energy, manufacturing, and utility industries | Common 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 noisy and requires adherence to safety protocols.
How much do plant operators make?
Plant operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the industry. In some regions, experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially if working overtime or in hazardous environments.
More about Plant Operator jobs
- How Do You Become a Plant Operator?
- What Is the Job Duty of a Plant Operator?
- What Are Different Types of Plant Operator Jobs?
- What Are the Benefits of a Plant Operator Job?
- The 10 Top Types Of Plant Operator Jobs
- The 11 Best Types of Plant Operator in 2026
- What Is a Plant Operator and How to Become One
- Plant Operator Job Description Sample Template
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:
Who are the top companies hiring for Plant Operator jobs? The top employers for Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Plant Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Plant Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Plant Operator jobs? For Plant Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Martin Marietta Materials rating
7.3
Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
302nd of 520 rated manufacturers
Job description
Hours: 7am-5pm Monday - Friday
Pay: $20-$21.50 an hour
JOB SUMMARY
Martin Marietta is currently looking for a Plant Operator for surface operations at our Onaga Quarry in Onaga, KS. This position is responsible for assisting with plant clean-up and providing support for surface crushing operations. 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:
- Participate in safety programs and training, promoting Martin Marietta’s Guardian Angel culture
- Operate skid steer to facilitate plant clean-up
- Train and provide back-up for Plant Operator I
- Inspect equipment for signs of wear
- Monitoring processes, materials and surroundings
- Tend to equipment such as conveyors to move materials through production processes
- Perform basic maintenance on heavy mobile equipment
- Operate haul truck to assist with plant operations
- Work in a team environment
- Clean work areas
- Proper wear of personal protective equipment
- Notify supervisors of repairs needed
- Manage multiple tasks and prioritize production needs
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Education and Experience:
- High school diploma, GED or equivalent
- 1+ years of related experience
- Valid US driver’s license
- Heavy equipment operations or military experience preferred
- MS Office and other computer skills preferred
Skills:
- Ability to work with minimal supervision
- Knowledge of MSHA regulations
- Effective written and verbal communication
- Knowledge of machines and tools including their design, use and maintenance
Physical Abilities
- Ability to work in an outdoor environment year-round
- Ability to work in elevated areas
- General physical activities include climbing stairs and ladders, lifting, pushing, pulling, stooping, reach with hands and arms, and handling material
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Disclaimer:
In addition to the primary responsibilities outlined, the successful candidate may be expected to take on other tasks and assignments as required, including but not limited to duties outside the typical scope of the role to support overall team operations and organizational needs. Flexibility and adaptability to evolving job demands are essential.
What Martin Marietta Materials employees say
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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