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Production Plant Operator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Venture Global, Inc.

Engineer, Production

Arlington, VA · On-site

$110K - $139K/yr

Translate operating data into actionable insights that improve plant reliability, availability, and throughput * Automate the Analysis of production trends, loss events, and deviation from expected ...

Venturegloballng

Engineer, Production

Arlington, VA · On-site

$110K - $139K/yr

Translate operating data into actionable insights that improve plant reliability, availability, and throughput * Automate the Analysis of production trends, loss events, and deviation from expected ...

Fairfax Water

Plant Mechanic I/II - South

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$49K - $80K/yr

Griffith Water Production Opening Date: 08/26/2026 Closing Date: 9/10/2026 4:30 PM Eastern ... Operating various equipment and machinery to include backhoes, forklifts, dump trucks, hand and ...

Giesecke+Devrient

Production Supervisor

Dulles, VA · On-site

Confer with management to revise production schedules as a result of equipment failures or operating problems. * Incorporate shop floor organization and plant cleanliness among plant personnel.

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Production Plant Operator information

See Reston, VA salary details

$12

$18

$24

How much do production plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for production plant operator in Reston, VA is $18.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $20.24 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 near Reston, VA are hiring for Production Plant Operator jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Production Plant Operator job openings:

Production Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Production Plant Operator job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,384 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Chief Engineer / Plant Manager

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

Asbury Communities
Health Care and Social Assistance • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Asbury Communitiesexternal

$115K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Company Description
Today is a new day. At Asbury we're filling it with more laughter, more possibilities, more ways to give back, all backed by support for whatever life brings your way. We are an organization with a mindset to help others, a place where seniors continue to teach, learn, and grow.
For the ninth year in a row, Asbury has earned the Great Place to Work® designation - a reflection of our people-first culture and the trust our team members place in us. We don't just hear employee feedback - we act on it.
Come join our team that continues the legacy of serving the seniors of Montgomery County, MD and surrounding communities.
Hours & Schedule
  • Full-Time, 80 hours bi-weekly
  • Monday - Friday, 7:30am - 4:00pm
  • Ability to work weekends, evenings as needed.
  • On call rotation every 5 weeks.
  • $115,000-$130,000 annual salary

Job Description
The Engineering Plant Manager / Chief Engineer is responsible for overseeing the overall engineering operations and ensuring the efficient functioning of the plant's boilers, chillers and cooling towers along with mechanical, pumps, electrical, and safety systems. This role involves managing engineering teams, optimizing plant performance, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards, and implementing continuous improvements. The position requires strong leadership, problem-solving, and technical expertise to maintain and improve plant operations. This is a hands-on position that will require tasks with seasonal change over and routine training.
Essential Functions
  • Lead and manage a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians.
  • Provide training, mentorship, and performance evaluations to team members.
  • Ensure a safe and efficient working environment through active team engagement and leadership.
  • Develop succession plans and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Oversee the maintenance of all plant machinery, equipment, and systems to ensure optimal performance.
  • Implement preventative maintenance programs to reduce downtime and increase plant productivity.
  • Coordinate with other departments to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve engineering-related issues in a timely manner.
  • Develop and manage the engineering department budget, ensuring cost-effective operations and maintenance.
  • Evaluate and recommend new technologies or equipment to enhance operational efficiency.
  • Oversee the procurement and inventory management of engineering supplies and spare parts.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, health, safety, and other regulatory standards.
  • Lead safety audits, risk assessments, and incident investigations.
  • Develop and enforce safety policies and procedures to minimize workplace hazards.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements and lead initiatives to implement changes.
  • Manage engineering projects from conception to completion, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.
  • Introduce best practices and new technologies to enhance plant efficiency.
  • Report regularly to senior management regarding plant performance, engineering issues, and opportunities for improvement.
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and proposals for internal stakeholders.
  • Communicate effectively across departments to ensure alignment with plant objectives and goals.
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs., climb ladders, crawl under equipment, and work in cramped spaces at times.
  • May be necessary to assist in the evacuation of residents during emergency situations.

Qualifications
Experience:
  • Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in engineering management, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
  • Strong technical knowledge of plant systems, equipment, and manufacturing processes.
  • Proven track record in plant operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
  • Experience with budgeting, cost control, and project management.
  • In-depth knowledge of regulatory standards (e.g., OSHA, EPA, local safety and environmental regulations).
  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills.
  • Familiar with Microsoft Office Programs (e.g., Excel, Word)
  • Familiar with Building Automated Systems (BAS).

Education:
  • Highschool Diploma or Equivalent.

Licensure/Certification:
  • Valid state driver's license.
  • A/B underground storage tank operator certification must be provided within 90 days.
  • Maryland 1st Grade Engineer.

Additional Information
Depending upon the status of the position, Asbury offers generous benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage; 401K with match; PTO and paid holidays.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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