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Production Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EMR Metal Recycling

Production Plant Operator

Becker, MN · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

About the Opportunity As a Production Plant Operator at EMR, you'll play a key role in keeping our shredder running safely and efficiently. You'll operate and monitor the shredder, troubleshoot ...

Ormat

Plant Operator

Pahoa, HI · On-site

Plant Operator Position Summary The primary responsibility of a Plant Operator is to ensure that ... production. * Participate in the planning and scheduling of plant activities. * Prepare, review ...

Ormat Technologies

Plant Operator

Gabbs, NV · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Review routine operating data troubleshoot abnormal indications and take corrective actions ... production. * Participate in the planning and scheduling of plant activities. * Prepare, review ...

York Building Products

Plant Operator

Port Deposit, MD · On-site

A Plant Operator is responsible for daily production reporting and assists with basic maintenance activities including greasing and lubricating process equipment, plant housekeeping and machinery ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Plant Operator

Gabbs, NV · On-site

Review routine operating data troubleshoot abnormal indications and take corrective actions ... production. * Participate in the planning and scheduling of plant activities. * Prepare, review ...

Ormat

Plant Operator

Pahoa, HI · On-site

Plant Operator Position Summary The primary responsibility of a Plant Operator is to ensure that ... production. * Participate in the planning and scheduling of plant activities. * Prepare, review ...

Ormat

Plant Operator

Gabbs, NV · On-site

... production. • Participate in the planning and scheduling of plant activities. • Prepare, review, edit, and recommend operating procedures. • Perform preventive maintenance tasks (PM's). • ...

Saige Partners

Plant Operator

Conrad, IA · On-site

The Plant Operator continuously monitors systems, performs product quality checks, completes routine maintenance tasks, and records operational data. Additionally, this role provides supervision and ...

Ormat

Plant Operator

Gabbs, NV · On-site

... level of production. Participate in the planning and scheduling of plant activities. Prepare ... When assigned as a Plant Operator 2,3, or 4: Successfully complete the Plant Operator 2 ...

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

Plant Operator

Pahoa, HI · On-site

Review routine operating data troubleshoot abnormal indications and take corrective actions ... production. * Participate in the planning and scheduling of plant activities. * Prepare, review ...

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Warrenton, GA · On-site

Maintaining daily production reports and exchanges relevant information with others daily ... Operating other mobile and plant equipment, including skid steer, front end loader, etc. in a safe ...

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Warrenton, GA

Maintaining daily production reports and exchanges relevant information with others daily ... Operating other mobile and plant equipment, including skid steer, front end loader, etc. in a safe ...

City of Dunedin

Water Plant Operator/Trainee

Dunedin, FL · On-site

$38K - $53K/yr

Assists certified operators in the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of water treatment plant processes to ensure the production of safe, high-quality drinking water. Performs routine ...

Martin Marietta

Plant Operator

Saint George, GA · On-site

Maintaining daily production reports and exchanges relevant information with others daily ... Operating other mobile and plant equipment, including skid steer, front end loader, etc. in a safe ...

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How much do production plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for production plant operator in the United States is $18.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a production plant operator?

Production Plant Operators are professionals responsible for managing and controlling the equipment and systems that produce goods in factories or industrial plants. They monitor machinery, adjust controls, troubleshoot issues, and ensure that production processes run efficiently and safely. Their duties also include maintaining quality standards, following safety protocols, and performing routine maintenance or repairs as needed. Production Plant Operators play a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of manufacturing facilities.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a production plant operator?

To thrive as a Production Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, and maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective communication set outstanding operators apart. These competencies are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient, and high-quality production in a plant environment.

What challenges do production plant operators face during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Production Plant Operators often work in rotating shifts, which can lead to challenges such as fatigue, maintaining focus during night hours, and balancing personal life with work schedules. To manage these challenges, it's important to develop good sleep hygiene, communicate openly with supervisors about workload, and use established safety protocols to stay alert and minimize risks. Many plants also offer support through shift scheduling tools and team-based rotations to help operators adjust more comfortably.

What is the difference between Production Plant Operator vs Manufacturing Technician?

AspectProduction Plant OperatorManufacturing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications vary by industryHigh school diploma; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, plants, industrial facilitiesManufacturing floors, assembly lines, industrial settings
Job FocusOperating and monitoring equipment, ensuring safety and efficiencyMaintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing manufacturing equipment
Industry UsageCommonly used in production plants across various industriesUsed in manufacturing facilities for equipment maintenance

While both roles work in industrial settings, Production Plant Operators primarily focus on operating and monitoring production equipment, ensuring smooth plant operations. Manufacturing Technicians, on the other hand, concentrate on maintaining and repairing manufacturing machinery. Both roles are essential for efficient production processes and often require similar certifications and work environments.

Where do production plant operators make the most money?

Production plant operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong manufacturing or industrial sector, such as areas with large chemical, oil, or power generation facilities. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in specialized industries or facilities with hazardous environments can also increase earning potential.

What cities are hiring for Production Plant Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Production Plant Operator job openings:

What states have the most Production Plant Operator jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Production Plant Operator jobs?

For Production Plant Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Production Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Production Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,856 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Production Plant Operator

Becker, MN • On-site

EMR Metal Recycling
See more jobs at EMR Metal Recyclingexternal

$24 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate and monitor the shredder using hand controls, cameras, and system alerts to ensure safe and efficient operation.

  • Diagnose equipment errors, troubleshoot issues, and assist with routine and major repairs to minimize downtime.

  • Support daily startup, shutdown, cleanup procedures, and maintain communication with team members to coordinate workflow.

Job description

About Us:
EMR is one of the world's leading metal recycling companies with a history spanning decades. At EMR, our employees are the heart and soul of our organization. We are committed to creating a workplace that prioritizes the well-being and safety of everyone. Our company provides a supportive and inclusive community where everyone's ideas and contributions are valued. We believe in teamwork and collaboration.
Our mission is to provide our customers with efficient and reliable metal recycling services while minimizing the environmental impact of our operations. EMR recycles ten million tons of material annually, everything from beverage cans to aircraft carriers. We work with a wide variety of metals including copper, aluminum, brass, and stainless steel and can recycle it into more than 200 different types of new sustainable raw materials.
EMR offers our team a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans with company match, wellbeing benefits, employee assistance program and more. Join us and be a part of a team that puts people first!
About the Opportunity
As a Production Plant Operator at EMR, you'll play a key role in keeping our shredder running safely and efficiently. You'll operate and monitor the shredder, troubleshoot equipment issues, support maintenance, and daily cleanup. This is a hands-on role for someone who is safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and able to make quick decisions.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate the shredder using hand controls while monitoring cameras, system alerts, and ensuring material meets quality standards.
  • Diagnose shredder system errors and make timely decisions to minimize downtime and maintain production
  • Assist maintenance technicians and mechanics with routine and major equipment repairs.
  • Maintain consistent radio communication with equipment operators, production staff, and maintenance staff to coordinate, address issues, and maintain a safe and efficient workflow.
  • Assist with daily shredder startup and shutdown procedures
  • Complete daily cleanup and maintain a clean, organized yard. Including cleanup on days when the shredder is shut down.

Qualifications
  • Experience with hydraulic, pneumatic, industrial equipment, or conveyors
  • Experience with operating skid loader, forklift and other equipment
  • Strong attention to detail with the ability to multitask, make quick decisions, and work effectively in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, climb stairs and heights, and stand for extended periods
  • Ability to lift and handle up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment
  • Industrial or production management experience is a plus

Compensation and Benefits
  • 55-70 hours per week (opportunity for overtime)
  • Monday - Friday, 4:30am-6:00pm
  • $24-29/hour, full-time, year-round
  • PTO and 9 paid company holidays
  • Medical and dental insurance
  • Employer paid vision insurance
  • Employer paid life insurance
  • HSA and FSA with employer contribution
  • 401(k) with company match

#LI-Onsite
IND02
EMR USA Metal Recycling provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
*E-Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This business uses E-Verify in its hiring practices to achieve lawful workforce.

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