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Plant Operator Courses

A Plant Operator maintains equipment in power, chemical, or oil plants, monitoring operations and testing samples to ensure proper functionality.

    • AI Exposure: Low

      This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.

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  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • NSW
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a Plant Operator?

Get qualified to work as a Plant Operator with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Plant Operator generally earns $1,550 per week ($80,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only.

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Despite job opportunities for Plant Operators decreasing slightly over the past 5 years, the industry is expected to remain stable. It is predicted that the number of Plant Operator roles will remain the same over the next 5 years.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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Completing the Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations provides key skills in heavy machinery operation and safety, essential for a Plant Operator role. This nationally recognised qualification showcases your industry readiness, enhancing your job prospects. It demonstrates practical competence and commitment, making you a preferred candidate for employers in the plant operation sector.

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Further reading

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All plant operator courses

Plant Operator careers

A Plant Operator is responsible for maintaining equipment to ensure it works correctly. They might work at a power plant, chemical plant or oil refinery. Plant Operators are required to be familiar with the entire operations at a plant so they can ensure the equipment is doing what is required.

The role of a Plant Operator is likely to involve the monitoring of pressure, temperature and flow rate for different machines to make sure that they are functioning properly. It’s also likely that a Plant Operator will need to collect and test samples.