This role requires strong technical knowledge of fossil power plant systems, startup sequencing, commissioning documentation, and safety compliance. The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of related ...
Quick apply
Apply Early
This role requires strong technical knowledge of fossil power plant systems, startup sequencing, commissioning documentation, and safety compliance. The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of related ...
Apply Early
The ideal candidate will have 5-9 years of engineering experience, particularly in plant startup, commissioning, and maintenance, or a 4-year degree in engineering or a related field. Key ...
Quick apply
Apply Early
The ideal candidate will have 5-9 years of engineering experience, particularly in plant startup, commissioning, and maintenance, or a 4-year degree in engineering or a related field. Key ...
Apply Early
Plant Operator
Hobbs, NM · On-site
$25 - $33/hr
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
Hobbs, NM · On-site
$25 - $33/hr
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
Three Rivers, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
Three Rivers, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
George West, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
George West, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
Three Rivers, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
Three Rivers, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
George West, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
George West, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
Laredo, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
Laredo, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
Three Rivers, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator
Three Rivers, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Operation and knowledge of wash plant startup/shutdown procedures. * Assist maintenance department in maintaining the wash plant equipment. * General labor, as needed Qualifications * Capable of ...
Quick apply
Apply Early
Operation and knowledge of wash plant startup/shutdown procedures. * Assist maintenance department in maintaining the wash plant equipment. * General labor, as needed Qualifications * Capable of ...
Apply Early
Plant Operator III
Kenedy, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator III
Kenedy, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Wash Plant Operator
Von Ormy, TX · On-site
$20/hr
Operation and knowledge of wash plant startup/shutdown procedures. * Assist maintenance department in maintaining the wash plant equipment. * General labor, as needed Qualifications * Capable of ...
Wash Plant Operator
Von Ormy, TX · On-site
$20/hr
Operation and knowledge of wash plant startup/shutdown procedures. * Assist maintenance department in maintaining the wash plant equipment. * General labor, as needed Qualifications * Capable of ...
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator II
Kenedy, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator II
Kenedy, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator II
Kenedy, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Operator II
Kenedy, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Amine Plant Operator
Fashing, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Amine Plant Operator
Fashing, TX · On-site
Safely perform plant startup, shutdown, and respond to plant emergencies. * Maintain established plant or equipment logs as required. * Perform lock out/tag out procedures and may monitor field ...
Plant Startup information
See salary details
$11.06 - $12.52
6% of jobs
$12.52 - $13.99
0% of jobs
$13.99 - $15.45
10% of jobs
$16.49 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.45 - $16.91
13% of jobs
The median wage is $18.13 / hr.
$16.91 - $18.38
26% of jobs
$19.30 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$18.38 - $19.84
33% of jobs
$19.84 - $21.31
4% of jobs
$21.31 - $22.77
6% of jobs
$22.77 - $24.24
2% of jobs
$24.24 - $25.70
0% of jobs
$25.70 - $27.16
0% of jobs
$11
$18
$27
How much do plant startup jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant startup in the United States is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a Plant Startup?
A plant startup refers to the process of bringing a new industrial facility, such as a manufacturing plant, refinery, or power plant, into full operational status for the first time. This phase involves testing equipment, calibrating systems, ensuring safety protocols are in place, and gradually ramping up production to desired levels. Plant startups require careful planning, coordination, and troubleshooting to ensure the plant operates efficiently and safely. The process is critical for meeting regulatory requirements and achieving the plant's performance targets.
What is the difference between Plant Startup vs Plant Operator?
| Aspect | Plant Startup | Plant Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Oversees the commissioning and initial operation of new or modified plant equipment and systems | Manages ongoing daily operations, monitoring equipment, and ensuring continuous plant performance |
| Required Certifications | Process safety, technical certifications, sometimes engineering background | Operator licenses, safety certifications, technical training |
| Work Environment | Intensive during commissioning, often project-based, temporary | Consistent, shift-based, ongoing operational environment |
| Industry Usage | Common during plant start-up phases or plant modifications | Regularly employed for daily plant operations |
While Plant Startup specialists focus on launching and commissioning new or upgraded plants, Plant Operators handle the day-to-day running of the plant to ensure safety and efficiency. Both roles require technical knowledge and safety certifications, but their responsibilities and work phases differ significantly.
What are some typical challenges faced during the plant startup process, and how can team members prepare for them?
During a plant startup, team members often encounter challenges such as equipment malfunctions, process optimization issues, and unexpected safety concerns. Preparation involves thorough review of startup protocols, close coordination with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams, and proactive troubleshooting. Effective communication and flexibility are crucial, as unforeseen issues may require rapid decision-making and adjustments to the startup schedule. Regular training and drills can also help the team respond effectively to any incidents that arise.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Plant Startup roles, and why are they important?
To thrive in a Plant Startup role, you need a strong background in engineering or process operations, with expertise in commissioning procedures and safety protocols. Familiarity with process control systems (such as DCS/SCADA), startup checklists, and relevant certifications like OSHA or PMP is often required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for addressing unexpected issues and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and timely plant startup operations, minimizing downtime and optimizing performance.
More about Plant Startup jobs
What job categories do people searching Plant Startup jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Startup jobs are:
Contractor
Posted 26 days ago
Be an early applicant
Job description
Position: Mechanical Startup Lead II
Location: 12860 E Cherokee Drive, Ball Ground, GA 30107
Duration: 6 Months
Client: Southern Company Services.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Startup Lead II to support generating plant startup and commissioning activities. This role requires strong technical knowledge of fossil power plant systems, startup sequencing, commissioning documentation, and safety compliance.
The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of related experience in engineering design, generating plant startup, and/or maintenance, or a 4-year degree in engineering or related curriculum.
This position plays a critical role in ensuring safe, efficient, and successful startup and commissioning of plant systems within schedule and budget requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Safety & Compliance
- Abide by all safety rules and help maintain a culture focused on safety excellence.
- Ensure compliance with OSHA and applicable environmental regulations.
- Enforce and monitor adherence to LOTO procedures.
- Ensure quality requirements of plans, specifications, and standards are met.
Startup & Commissioning Execution
- Assist in planning proper sequence and scheduling of startup activities.
- Perform project startup and commissioning activities as directed by the Site Startup Manager.
- Develop and manage startup budgets and schedules.
- Accurately document startup and commissioning results.
- Develop punch lists and Startup Turnover Packages.
- Support implementation of owner startup procedures.
Technical Oversight
- Identify installation problems and assist in developing corrective solutions.
- Ensure corrective actions are executed by contractors, craft personnel, or vendors.
- Interpret and review P6 schedules.
- Read and interpret drawings and operations manuals.
- Support pressurized piping and vessel code compliance.
Collaboration & Leadership
- Coordinate across plant staff, engineering, contractors, and vendors.
- Manage multiple assignments simultaneously.
- Plan and organize startup activities in a team-based environment.
- Identify opportunities for process improvement.
Required Qualifications
- 10+ years of experience in:
- Engineering design
- Generating plant startup
- Maintenance in fossil or thermal power plants
OR
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related discipline.
- Knowledge of fossil power plant systems and major equipment.
- Working knowledge of pressurized piping and vessel codes.
- Ability to interpret Primavera P6 schedules.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
Key Skills & Expertise
- Power plant startup and commissioning
- OSHA and environmental compliance
- LOTO procedures
- Punch list development
- Startup turnover packages
- Schedule and budget management
- Reading engineering drawings and manuals
- Multi-project coordination
- Process improvement mindset
Work Environment
- Plant-based role supporting startup and commissioning activities.
- Requires strong field presence and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.