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Senior Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mariposa County, CA

Plant Operator I/II

Mariposa, CA · On-site

$4.87K - $6.21K/mo

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general direction from the Senior Plant Operator or a higher level management position. Examples of Duties EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Depending upon ...

Franciscan Alliance

Plant Operator

Crown Point, IN · On-site

... senior management. This position assesses, prioritizes, troubleshoots, and repairs facility ... The Plant Operator performs duties in compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements ...

Franciscan Health

Plant Operator

Crown Point, IN · On-site

... senior management. This position assesses, prioritizes, troubleshoots, and repairs facility ... The Plant Operator performs duties in compliance with all applicable regulatory requirements ...

City of Duluth

Senior Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$78.47K - $95.60K/yr

To be considered for the Senior Water Plant Operator position, you must have a Minnesota Class "A" or "B" Water Supply System Operator's certification. Applicants will only be eligible for hire into ...

LF Bioenergy

Plant Operator

Brillion, WI · On-site

This role reports to LF's Senior Regional Operations Manager. The Plant Operators will have overall responsibility for operating performance, safety, and environmental compliance of the facility ...

City of Duluth, MN

Senior Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$78.47K - $95.60K/yr

To be considered for the Senior Water Plant Operator position, you must have a Minnesota Class "A" or "B" Water Supply System Operator's certification. Applicants will only be eligible for hire into ...

City of Duluth

Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$69.29K - $84.57K/yr

To be considered for the Senior Water Plant Operator position, you must have a Minnesota Class "A" or "B" Water Supply System Operator's certification. Applicants will only be eligible for hire into ...

City of Duluth, MN

Water Plant Operator

Duluth, MN · On-site

$69.29K - $84.57K/yr

To be considered for the Senior Water Plant Operator position, you must have a Minnesota Class "A" or "B" Water Supply System Operator's certification. Applicants will only be eligible for hire into ...

Franciscan Alliance

Plant Operator I

Crown Point, IN · On-site

... engineering senior management. This position assesses, troubleshoots, and repairs facility ... The Plant Operator I performs duties in compliance with all applicable regulatory standards, and ...

Franciscan Health

Plant Operator I

Crown Point, IN · On-site

... engineering senior management. This position assesses, troubleshoots, and repairs facility ... The Plant Operator I performs duties in compliance with all applicable regulatory standards, and ...

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Senior Plant Operator information

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$25K

$80.3K

$163.5K

How much do senior plant operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior plant operator in the United States is $80,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Plant Operator, you need in-depth knowledge of plant operations, process controls, and safety regulations, often backed by a technical diploma or relevant certifications. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), SCADA systems, and equipment maintenance protocols is typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to lead and communicate effectively with a team are highly valued soft skills. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and continuous plant operations while minimizing downtime and maintaining compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Plant Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Senior Plant Operators often face challenges such as troubleshooting complex equipment issues, maintaining strict safety and environmental standards, and managing shift teams efficiently. Staying current with technological advancements and regulatory changes is essential, as is effective communication with maintenance, engineering, and management teams. Many operators address these challenges by participating in ongoing training, fostering a proactive safety culture, and developing strong leadership and problem-solving skills.

What are Senior Plant Operators?

Senior Plant Operators are experienced professionals responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of industrial plants or facilities, such as power plants, water treatment facilities, or manufacturing sites. They monitor equipment, control systems, and processes to ensure everything runs safely and efficiently. In addition to operating machinery, they often supervise junior staff, troubleshoot technical issues, and help implement safety and maintenance procedures. Their role is crucial for maintaining production targets and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

What is the difference between Senior Plant Operator vs Plant Operator?

AspectSenior Plant OperatorPlant Operator
CertificationsOften requires additional certifications or licenses, such as advanced operator licensesBasic operator licenses typically sufficient
Work EnvironmentSupervises operations, troubleshooting, and maintenance tasksPerforms routine operation and monitoring of plant equipment
ResponsibilitiesOversees team, ensures safety compliance, and handles complex issuesOperates equipment, monitors systems, and reports issues

The main difference between a Senior Plant Operator and a Plant Operator lies in responsibility level and required certifications. Senior Plant Operators typically oversee operations, handle complex troubleshooting, and may supervise staff, while Plant Operators focus on routine operations and monitoring. Both roles are essential in plant operations, but the senior position involves more leadership and technical expertise.

What cities are hiring for Senior Plant Operator jobs? Cities with the most Senior Plant Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plant Operator jobs? The most popular types of Plant Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Plant Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Plant Operator jobs include:
Senior Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $80,287 per year, or $38.6 per hour.

Plant Operator I/II

Mariposa County, CA

Mariposa, CA • On-site

$4.87K - $6.21K/mo

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Salary: $4,866.16 - $6,210.53 Monthly
Location : Mariposa, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 16-01199
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 02/26/2026
Description
There is currently one (1) full-time vacancy in the Public Works Department.
Only online applications will be accepted.
DEFINITION
To plan, coordinate, and participate in the safe and sanitary maintenance and operation of County special districts facilities, including water and wastewater systems; to ensure State and County compliance with related laws, regulations and standards; and to perform related duties and responsibilities as required.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
The Plant Operator I/II is a flexibly-staffed class series. Positions allocated to the I/II level are normally filled at the I level. Advancement from the I to the II level is at the discretion of the appointing authority, provided that the incumbent meets the minimum qualifications and demonstrates the ability to independently perform the full scope of the assigned duties.
Incumbents in the Plant Operator I level usually perform most of the duties required of the position at the Plant Operator II level, but are not expected to function with the same amount of knowledge or skill level. Assignments are limited in scope and are performed within a framework of established procedures with close supervision. The Plant Operator II is the journey level classification in the Plant Operator series. Incumbents are expected to complete assignments with minimal supervision and are given increased responsibility and latitude of judgment to complete assignments.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general direction from the Senior Plant Operator or a higher level management position.
Examples of Duties
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Depending upon assignment, duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Monitors the various instruments and general mechanical equipment involved in the operation of a water and wastewater treatment plant; takes appropriate action to remedy adverse situations.
Take readings of gauges and temperatures and record readings.
Read meters and gauges and regulate the flow of water and wastewater.
Test the treatment process for dissolved oxygen levels, pH and temperature.
Performs engineering calculations such as determine chemical dosage requirements and pump sizing.
Inspect plant facilities and related areas to ensure proper appearance and to determine maintenance, improvement and repair needs.
Provides advice and recommendations to supervisor regarding facilities; provides technical guidance and direction to employees in maintenance work methods, materials, standards and operations.
Keeps logs and records of water samples and machinery operation.
Ensures adherence to all health and safety standards.
Receives and responds to inquiries, requests for assistance, concerns and complaints regarding plant policies, programs and projects.
Performs related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
High school or GED equivalency is required.
Experience:
Increasingly responsible experience in facilities maintenance or a related field that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying.
Additional Requirements:
Plant Operator I
Enrollment in certification-required education courses necessary to sit for the certification exam and the ability to obtain a Grade I Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate or Grade I Water Treatment Operator (T1) certificate within eighteen (18) months of appointment.
Plant Operator II
Possession of a Grade II Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator certificate, a Grade I Water Treatment Operator (T1), and a Grade I Water Distribution Operator (D1) certificate issued by the State of California.
Plant Operator I and II
Possession of a valid California driver's license. Under certain circumstances, the Human Resources Director may accept a valid driver's license from another State if applicant acknowledges his/her intent to acquire a California driver's license within three months by signing an acknowledgement form.
Extra-Help employees are not entitled to County benefits.
01
Please describe your experience in the operation and maintenance of water distribution systems and wastewater treatment and collection systems.
02
Please detail any other training or experience that you feel may qualify you for this position.
03
Possession of a valid California driver's license is required for this recruitment. Under certain circumstances, the Human Resources Director may accept a valid driver's license from another State if applicant acknowledges his/her intent to acquire a California driver's license within three months by signing an acknowledgement form. Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No

04
One of the requirements of this position is a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Do you have a high school diploma or GED equivalent?
  • Yes
  • No

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