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Plant Process Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Fermilab

Plant Operator

Batavia, IL · On-site

$28.30 - $34.51/hr

What your day-to-day as a Plant Operator at Fermilab will look like: * You will operate and ... Knowledge of cryogenics and the refrigeration process is desirable. Physical Activity and Work ...

IKO Industries, Inc

Process Engineer

Kankakee, IL · On-site

Developing standard work and ensuring operators and supervisors are engaged and trained in running plant processes consistently. * Commissioning new production equipment and processes, monitoring ...

IKO Industries, Ltd.

Process Engineer

Kankakee, IL · On-site

Developing standard work and ensuring operators and supervisors are engaged and trained in running plant processes consistently. * Commissioning new production equipment and processes, monitoring ...

Ecolab Inc.

Chemical Plant Operator I

Chicago, IL

You'll be responsible for operating and controlling chemical processing systems and equipment to ... Plant Location: Clearing, IL * Work Week & Shift: Day: 6:00 am - 6:30 pm or Night: 6:00 pm - 6:30 ...

New

Moffitt

PLANT OPERATOR II

Chicago, IL

Summary The Plant Operator II performs demand and scheduled preventive maintenance of the facility ... Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work ...

Moffitt

PLANT OPERATOR II

Chicago, IL · On-site

Summary The Plant Operator II performs demand and scheduled preventive maintenance of the facility ... Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work ...

Moffitt

PLANT OPERATOR II

Chicago, IL

Summary The Plant Operator II performs demand and scheduled preventive maintenance of the facility ... Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work ...

AB Specialty Silicones

Chemical Operator

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21/hr

Production C Operator Supervisor Title: Production Supervisor Department: Production FLSA Status ... Able to assist start-up and shut-down some plant processes. Equipment could include Emulsion area ...

AB SPECIALTY SILICONES L LC

Chemical Operator

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21/hr

Production C Operator Supervisor Title: Production Supervisor Department: Production FLSA Status ... Able to assist start-up and shut-down some plant processes. Equipment could include Emulsion area ...

Tate & Lyle

Stevia Plant Operator-3

Decatur, IL

Role purpose The Stevia Plant Operator has the responsibility of setting up, operating, and ... Operate process equipment and execute all the necessary tasks to produce natural high intensity ...

Tate & Lyle

Stevia Plant Operator-3

Decatur, IL · On-site

Role purpose The Stevia Plant Operator has the responsibility of setting up, operating, and ... Operate process equipment and execute all the necessary tasks to produce natural high intensity ...

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All JobsPlant Process Operator JobsPlant Process Operator Jobs in Illinois

Plant Process Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$20

$30

How much do plant process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant process operator in Illinois is $20.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a plant process operator?

A plant process operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring industrial equipment and processes in a manufacturing or power plant setting. They operate control systems, perform routine inspections, and ensure safety and efficiency standards are maintained, often requiring technical skills and safety certifications. Their work involves managing equipment to produce consistent, safe, and efficient output.

Where do plant process operators make the most money?

Plant process operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong industrial or energy sector, such as areas with large manufacturing plants, refineries, or power plants. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in hazardous environments can also influence earning potential.

How much is a plant process operator paid in the USA?

The average annual salary for a plant process operator in the USA is approximately $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages, often working shifts in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by plant process operators and how can they be effectively managed?

Plant Process Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to equipment malfunctions, maintaining strict safety and environmental compliance, and managing multiple processes simultaneously during peak production times. Effective communication with maintenance teams and supervisors is crucial for resolving technical issues promptly. Staying up-to-date with safety protocols and participating in ongoing training can help operators handle unexpected situations with confidence and maintain smooth plant operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plant process operator?

To thrive as a Plant Process Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial processes, safety regulations, and equipment operation, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with process control systems (such as SCADA or DCS), maintenance tools, and safety protocols like OSHA standards is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and reliable plant operations, minimizing downtime and supporting overall production goals.

What does a plant process operator do?

A Plant Process Operator is responsible for overseeing and managing the machinery and equipment that produce or process industrial materials, such as chemicals, oil, gas, or food products. Their duties typically include monitoring systems, adjusting controls, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring safety regulations are followed. Operators also troubleshoot issues, collect data, and report on production outcomes. They play a crucial role in maintaining efficient and safe plant operations.

What is the difference between Plant Process Operator vs Chemical Plant Operator?

AspectPlant Process OperatorChemical Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires safety and equipment operation certificationsHigh school diploma; may require specific chemical handling certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, power plants, manufacturing facilitiesChemical processing plants, refineries, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsagePower generation, manufacturing, utilitiesChemical manufacturing, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals
Job FunctionsOperate and monitor equipment, ensure safety, perform routine maintenanceOperate chemical processing equipment, monitor chemical reactions, ensure safety protocols

Both roles involve operating and monitoring industrial equipment, but Chemical Plant Operators focus specifically on chemical processes and handling hazardous materials, often requiring specialized chemical certifications. Plant Process Operators have a broader scope across various industries like power and manufacturing. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit based on their skills and interests.

Plant Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Process Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,622 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Lead Plant Operator - Renewable Natural Gas (Cottonwood)

OPAL Fuels Inc.

Marissa, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Opal Fuels rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

About OPAL Fuels
OPAL Fuels (Nasdaq: OPAL) is a leader in the capture and conversion of biogas into low carbon intensity RNG and renewable electricity. OPAL Fuels is also a leader in the marketing and distribution of RNG to heavy duty trucking and other hard to de-carbonize industrial sectors. For additional information, and to learn more about OPAL Fuels and how it is leading the effort to capture North America's naturally occurring methane and decarbonize the economy, please visit www.opalfuels.com.
Position Summary
We are hiring for a Lead Plant Operator with experience to work at our Cottonwood RNG site, located in Marissa, IL as part of our Operations department. Cottonwood RNG is currently under construction and expected to startup in November. The Lead Plant Operator is responsible for the direction and supervision of all day-to-day activities in a Renewable Natural Gas facility. This position reports to the Area Manager and shares accountability of the day-to-day operations of the site. This position will lead the site with one other operator with the goals of maximizing production and minimizing downtime with the utmost regard to safety, cleanliness, and environmental compliance. Initial employment will involve working with the construction and commissioning team to startup the site.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Safety (reviewing LOTO; reviewing JHA's; bringing safety concerns to upper management)
  • Environmental (monthly reporting; monitors composition of LFG to include H2S treatment and media sampling; reviewing compliance procedures and ensuring compliance)
  • Coordinating maintenance tasks with management and operators
  • Scheduling operators and planning outage events
  • Working with third party vendors to ensure timely and efficient service
  • Responding to callouts and managing the callout roster
  • Covering operator shifts when necessary and callouts
  • Tuning and adjusting the plant to meet production and efficiency needs
  • Inventory Management and Preventative Maintenance program
  • This position will be also responsible for operating, adjusting, and repairing equipment required to maximize gas plant production in a safe and environmentally compliant manner.
  • Operate and monitor the blowers, gas pretreatment, chiller, CO2 removal, N2 removal, O2 removal, compression equipment.
  • Ensuring operators maintain detailed records on production data, equipment operational hours, and service schedules and equipment outages.
  • Check all operating equipment daily including flow meters, gas chromatographs, fluid levels, pressure and temperature readings, and unusual noises to correct conditions before failure occurs.
  • Perform all maintenance and repairs on the operating equipment including oil and filter changes, replacement of drive belts, hoses, valve adjustments, replacement of compressor filters, slide valves, couplings and bearings, as necessary. Participate in preventative maintenance outages and overhauls.
  • Maintain a high level of cleanliness in and around the plant. Keep equipment, plant grounds, and floors looking as presentable as possible.
  • Keep all on-site parts and supplies stocked and well organized. Maintain plant inventory.
  • Respond to call outs in a timely manner. Identify and correct the cause of the call out. If the problem cannot be corrected or diagnosed, it is the responsibility of the lead operator to contact the plant manager to get the help required to fix the situation.
  • Operate the plant with a clear focus on safety. Clean up spills immediately. Make sure all lighting systems are fully functional; no slip or trip hazards are consistently present; and no electrical or mechanical hazards go on for long periods of time without attention. Affirm that all plant visitors, mechanics, and outside contractors are following safe work practices.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications and Skills
  • 7+ years of Renewable gas production industry experience preferred.
  • Must be skilled in recordkeeping and logging.
  • General troubleshooting abilities.
  • Computer skills (Microsoft Office).
  • Must possess good mechanical skills with mechanical/basic electrical knowledge/troubleshooting experience.
  • Basic electrical knowledge is preferred.
  • Must be self-motivated and perform most tasks with little or no supervision.
  • Working knowledge of pressure, vacuum, and flow.
  • Experience with pumps, blowers, or air compressors.
  • Heavy equipment operations experience is preferred (gas turbine & gas compressor O&M).
  • Fabrication and Basic Process Knowledge
  • Must have a current and valid driver's license, without any restrictions.
Work Hours and Arrangements
  • Lead Operators are scheduled 40 -50 hrs. per week based on operational need , plant performance and available staffing.
  • Some examples of plant schedules are 5-8s, 4 -10s, 2 on and 2 off 12s
  • Lead Operators are required to occasionally work night shifts and weekends and participate in rolling callout schedules that require 24/7 availability during that 7 day period

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described are representative of those required by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Position requires physical effort such as that associated with driving a motorized vehicle, operate an ATV, using hand tools, and typing on a computer. Position requires moderate lifting (10-50 lbs.), occasional need to walk on irregular surfaces, and occasional stooping, kneeling, climbing, or crouching. Also requires the use of hands and arms to operate/examine gas meter, flow meters, hand tools, power tools, bridge and jib cranes and test/diagnostic equipment.
Job Type
Full time
Pay
The range for this role is anticipated to be $38.00 -$40.00 hourly with bonus for eligible positions. Where a specific pay range is noted, it is a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. The actual salary offered will be based on experience, skills, qualifications, market / business considerations, and geographic location.
Benefits
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short & Long Term Disability
  • 401(k) plus Matching Contributions
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Referral Bonus
  • Generous Paid Time Off
  • Ten Paid Holidays
OPAL Fuels LLC is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, ethnicity, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), age, physical or mental disability, citizenship, past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.
OPAL Fuels does not accept unsolicited resumes from third-party recruiters or agencies without a current signed agreement and written confirmation specifying the roles for which submissions are authorized. Any resumes submitted without an agreement and authorization will be considered the property of OPAL Fuels.

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