Plant Operator

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