Posted 10/06/2026
Job Number: 18029

Plant Operator

Smithfield, North Carolina • Onsite

Industry:  Utilities

Job Category: Utilities

Job Type:  Direct Hire

Share This Job

Job Description

Position Title: Plant Operator



We are seeking a hands-on Plant Operator to support the daily operation and maintenance of a landfill gas-to-electricity facility in Smithfield, North Carolina. This role works directly with engine-generator equipment, plant systems, and the wellfield, handling preventive maintenance, basic mechanical repairs, system monitoring, operational reporting, and response to plant alarms. The position is 100% onsite and includes an every-other-week on-call rotation, including weekends.

The ideal candidate is mechanically inclined, dependable, and comfortable working outdoors in changing weather conditions. Someone with at least one year of hands-on experience working with engines, generators, automotive equipment, or similar mechanical systems will be well positioned to succeed, while plant-specific systems and processes can be learned on the job.

Pay Range: $27 – $28 / hour, DOE

Responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain a single-engine facility that converts landfill gas into electricity
  • Perform basic mechanical repairs and preventive maintenance on engines, generators, and other plant equipment
  • Inspect equipment, identify worn or damaged components, and complete necessary repairs or replacements
  • Maintain and adjust the wellfield to improve gas quantity and quality while accurately recording operating data
  • Monitor plant conditions, respond to alarms, adjust system controls, and assist with startup and shutdown procedures
  • Complete daily, weekly, and monthly operating and maintenance logs, including compliance and permit-related reporting
  • Coordinate plant activities with utility and landfill personnel, maintain operating supplies, and complete required inspections and training

Requirements

  • 1+ year of hands-on experience working with engines, generators, diesel equipment, automotive systems, or similar mechanical equipment preferred
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability and willingness to learn plant operations and equipment maintenance
  • Comfortable working outdoors in changing weather conditions and within a tight engine enclosure
  • Ability to work Monday through Friday, approximately 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with every-other-week on-call coverage, including weekends
  • Ability to respond onsite within one hour when on call, with candidates ideally living within 30–40 minutes of the facility
  • Electrical experience or familiarity with SCADA, PLC interfaces, or HMI software is a plus but not required
  • Ability to meet required background screening and drug-testing requirements

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance, with medical coverage beginning on day one
  • 401(k) with a company contribution and an additional company match
  • Generous PTO based on experience
  • Paid company holidays plus personal-choice holidays
  • Quarterly performance bonus opportunity
  • HSA wellness incentive program
  • Company-provided tools and uniforms

If you are mechanically skilled, ready to work hands-on, and looking for an opportunity to build your expertise in plant operations and renewable energy, apply today to take the next step in your career.

#LI-IR1

Job ID: a0CUm00005EBS50MAH

Apply For This Position

Related Jobs

About Us

At Boutique Recruiting, we specialize in personalized, connection-driven placements, empowering candidates to achieve their goals. Committed to bold, impactful solutions, we fill roles of all types—full-time, part-time, and more—ensuring success for clients, candidates, and employees alike.

Job Details About Us Image

5-Star Reviews From Our Candidates