what is a plant operator?
A plant operator is a professional who operates, monitors and maintains machinery in an industrial plant. They perform the excavation, lifting, crushing and transportation of materials from one place to another. As a plant operator, you may be required to handle machines like cranes, backhoes, excavators, bulldozers and trenchers. Modern industrial plants have highly automated machines and equipment that enable computers to manage different processes. In such cases, you monitor progress, observe gauges, check valves and operate alarms and switches from a centralised control room.
plant operators work in many industries
As a plant operator, you have a chance to work in a broad range of industries. You will likely get a job in either power, utilities, wastewater treatment, mining or chemical plants. The manufacturing, refineries, gas and oil industries also hire plant operators. Some people specialise in a particular type of machinery, so they work on a single part of the industrial process. Developing skills in various machines and equipment is wise to give yourself flexibility.
plant operator jobsaverage salary of a plant operator
Plant operators responsible for operating heavy machinery take home a salary of $70,000 annually. In entry-level positions, a plant operator receives a median remuneration package of $50,000 annually. With experience and additional qualifications, a plant operator can take home a salary of up to $90,000 annually. While allowances and benefits aren't a standard requirement, most employers provide extra medical and life insurance coverage due to the risks associated with the role. Some also have annual sick days and other non-monetary benefits.
what factors affect the salaries of a plant operator?
Your area of specialisation and credentials influence your remuneration package. When you complete vocational qualifications in plant operations, your earnings increase to match your knowledge and additional skills. Your work experience also impacts your salary since it determines your hands-on expertise in the role.
Some plant operators specialise in a specific industry and learn the equipment used. For instance, working in construction as a plant operator attracts a different salary from working in manufacturing or mining due to the complexity of the role.
Want to know what you will earn as a plant operator? Check out what you are worth with our salary checker.
types of plant operators
Some of the types of plant operators include:
- power plant operator: as a power plant operator, you control and manage the systems that generate and distribute electricity. Your role also involves maintenance to ensure the systems are working correctly.
- control room operator: you monitor all the processes in manufacturing from a control room. Your job is to ensure every piece of equipment performs optimally and doesn't slow down the production or manufacturing process.
- water treatment operator: you supervise and control the machines that transfer and treat wastewater. You also ensure the water treatment system functions properly by monitoring the meters, adjusting equipment and collecting water samples.
- civil plant operator: a civil plant operator oversees the operation of plant equipment used in civil engineering projects. As a civil plant operator, you are responsible for the safety and efficiency of the plant equipment and ensure that it is properly maintained.
working as a plant operator
Working as a plant operator involves operating complex technologies to perform manufacturing or production processes. It is an exciting and hands-on role if you love working outdoors. The job also offers unique challenges to help you improve your skills.
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plant operator job description
As a plant operator, you handle various machine operations tasks each day. Although the roles vary from one industry to another, the primary duties of a plant operator include:
- overseeing plant operations: the job of plant operators involves monitoring plant operations via a computerised monitoring system. This entails an understanding of all the machines within the facility.
- repairing machines: a plant operator should spot malfunctions early and initiate appropriate repair procedures. Breakdowns often happen, and you require a deep knowledge of every process to troubleshoot the issues. Before you call a mechanic, try solving the problem by resetting or performing minor repairs.
- loading and unloading shipment: in industrial plants, there are always trucks or railcars with loads that need unpacking or shipping. Based on your industry, you physically load and unload the trucks or oversee the operations.
- ensuring safety adherence: the duties of a plant operator extend to carrying out safety checks on the machines. It's also your responsibility to ensure that the company follows safety protocols and legal codes while operating the equipment to minimise risks.
- maintaining the machines and plant site: a plant operator lubricates and cleans up the machinery and equipment. You also clean the worksite to keep it free from waste. Other responsibilities of a plant operator include installing machines according to specifications and transporting them to and from the worksite.
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work environment
As a plant operator, you can get a job in the public or private sectors, and the working conditions vary. Plant operators work in industrial sites in a very noisy and physically demanding workplace indoors and outdoors. Expect to work in dusty, hot areas with processes that sometimes emit fumes. Good ventilation and protective equipment like masks are often necessary.
Sometimes, you work in environments with strong odours, such as a water treatment plant. This job suits a person comfortable with heights since you often operate tower cranes or large excavators. Due to the slippery walkways, dangerous gases and hazardous conditions in such plants or mining sites, you must always wear protective gear. Expect to travel from one place to another and possibly even to work in remote locations.
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who are your colleagues?
Depending on your employer and the industry you work in, your colleagues might include crane drivers, mechanical fitters, construction project managers and plant mechanics. You might also be working in close proximity to maintenance technicians and forklift drivers, as well as other specialists that could include, but not be limited to, machine operators, factory supervisors, operations manager, and project managers.
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work schedule
Plant operators work 40 hours a week, often from 9 am to 5 pm, but working hours vary widely. Most plants operate 24/7, so expect shift work, including weekends and holidays. Large plants require constant monitoring of the machines, so working overtime is common. When travelling between jobs, you sometimes stay away from home overnight. In smaller plants, you work during the day, with a few calls at night and over weekends. Companies hire plant operators full-time or on a contract basis during peak seasons. Plant operators cannot work remotely due to the hands-on nature of the role.
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job outlook
As technological advancements improve manufacturing, mining and construction processes, plant operators are increasingly in demand. Industrial plants need tech-savvy plant operators to manage complex tasks. Some processes cannot be automated and may require plant operators to complete the role. As a plant operator, your career progression path gives you exciting opportunities to explore. For instance, you can become a plant supervisor or factory supervisor before becoming a manager.
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advantages of finding a plant operator job through randstad
Finding your plant operator job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid weekly or monthly, depending on the job
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as a plant operator is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too.
education and skills
While plant operators don't need high-level credentials, they undergo specialised training to operate heavy machinery. Here are the steps for becoming a plant operator:
- undergo specialised training: a plant operator needs to learn machine operation processes and other fundamentals of working in industrial settings. While employers provide on-the-job training, a plant operator with a Certificate III in civil construction plant operations has a competitive advantage. The vocational course takes one year and doesn't have any entry-level requirements.
- obtain a licence: before joining the role, ensure you know if the job requires a heavy vehicle licence. You can obtain a licence by completing a vocational training course at a Registered Training Organisation and gaining work experience. You may need to complete training with a registered organisation to obtain a White Card. The White Card verification will remain valid unless you do not work in construction for a period of two years and over.
skills and competencies
To succeed as a plant operator, the following skills are central to your success:
- attention to detail: as a plant operator, pay close attention to minor details. Remember that your job involves monitoring complex controls to ensure everything works properly. Being detail-oriented helps you avoid mistakes.
- critical thinking skills: this occupation suits people who quickly interpret information and make logical decisions. You identify the strengths and weaknesses of various equipment and machines and then develop the best solutions for any problem.
- active listening and communication skills: as a plant operator, you work with other team members and should communicate vital information effectively. You pay attention to what others say, understand all the instructions, and ask relevant questions. Simple miscommunication mistakes result in expensive losses and time wastage in industrial plants.
- concentration: plant operators should be very attentive in order to read and understand written instructions related to their job. Conducting tests and product evaluations also requires a high level of concentration. While operating the machines, you should pay attention to temperature reactors and other operational parameters.
FAQs about working as a plant operator
Here are the most asked questions about working as a plant operator:
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what are the responsibilities of a plant operator?
A plant operator operates heavy machinery in the construction, manufacturing or mining industries. The job entails loading trucks using heavy machinery and transporting materials from one section to another.
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how much do plant operators make in Australia?
Plant operators in Australia receive a remuneration package of $70,000 per year. Some plant operators in entry-level positions earn a lower salary of $50,000 annually. Experienced plant operators have higher earnings of over $90,000 yearly. Earnings usually depend on work experience and specialism.
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how do I become a plant operator in Australia?
To become a plant operator, you should complete vocational training like Certificate III in civil construction plant operations. Most employers also employ plant operators with a licence to operate heavy-duty machinery.
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is plant operator a good career?
Being a plant operator is an excellent career with a competitive salary and job security. Companies always look for operators with specialised knowledge about operating plant machines safely and effectively.
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what is a plant operator in mining?
A mining plant operator controls machines that extract rocks or other minerals from the earth. They also process the minerals and manufacture finished products. The role of a mining plant operator extends to setting up machines, monitoring their performance, and servicing, repairing and cleaning machinery.
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how do I apply for a plant operator vacancy?
Applying for a plant operator job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our plant operator job offers. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here.
