Plant Operator

QUALIFICATIONS

A foundation degree or GED or high school diploma with English, Maths, Science with Mechanical, Power and Technical studies and Plant Operator Trade Certificates like the nationally recognized Certificate III; encompassing at least 1-year requisite study and practice credit hours in the area or field of Plant Operations, Maintenance, and technology; passing exams and obtaining Licensure; combined with – On the Job Training (OJT) programs, Apprenticeships, Plant Operator Workforce Job Training or Experience; covering technical or engineering work topics including Engineering and Mechanical applications, concepts, and principles, plant & plant operations, Thermodynamics, principles of heating, condensation & transmission, Steam systems & cycle, power generation, electrical energy and transmission, load & cycle efficiency, plant fittings & accessories, fuels & combustion, Instrumentation and control systems, etc. and related subjects like; maths, science, technologies including “hands-on” technical planning and prepping, technical inspections, reading and understanding technical manuals; and adhering to technical specifications, processes, standard operating procedures, problem identification, computation and technical troubleshooting & problem-solving, codes, guidelines, regulations and safety protocols, environment protection, quality assurance and quality control (QA/ QC), etc. .

AVERAGE HOURLY PAY
(Credits: www.payscale.com)

CHEMICAL

GAS

POWER

WASTEWATER

PROJECTED GROWTH
(Credits: www.bls.gov)

Plant Operator is a great career, in which employment is projected to be varying between decline and growth, depending on the type of plant operator from 2019 to 2029.

SKILLS/ TRAITS NEEDED

Besides good technical & functional knowledge of manufacturing, plants, steam systems, turbines, engines, factory, workflow, workshops, production, and energy process, systems & technology, Plant Operators must be great troubleshooters with strong structured, critical & logical thinking and problem-solving skills; Plant Operators must have good leg-hand-eye coordination, physical stamina, dexterity, depth perception, near and far visual acuity, grip, and good reaction time. They must be self-motivated, self-organized, and follow safe work practices with extreme focus, and attention to detail, ensuring timely work completion of their tasks in hand. They also must be professional, ethical, proactive, agile, and alert with a high degree of patience and perseverance; have a great memory, willingness to learn and adapt, listening communication, and interpersonal skills. They must be physically fit since their work may sometimes be physically demanding; and may involve prolonged periods, working in tough conditions, etc. If they are not physically fit to withstand the Plant operations activities, they may become prone to injuries and accidents.

WORK FUNCTIONS

Plant Operators operate Plant, Machinery & Equipment to maintain continuous production of power or products & goods in manufacturing plants and factories. They work in tough conditions that may sometimes become hot & humid too. Their activities include monitoring the production line to meet production targets, adjusting valves and controls, preventative Plant & Machinery maintenance, keeping the Plant systems functioning smoothly & safely, maintaining production & material records, ordering materials & supplies, etc. Besides being responsible for the upkeep of the Production & Plant facilities, trouble-shooting, resolving, or escalating issues, they may also be required to train juniors, handle contractors, perform repairs, and keep the work areas clean and organized. Additionally, besides the operation of the Plant & Machinery, they need to stringently adhere to and follow all safety procedures guidelines issued by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Plant operators may work for the government, or private contractors and employers. They may be needed to work in shifts.