Plant operators work in different companies such as the petrochemical and oil industries, utilizing several machines to render their services and get work done. The essence of using these machines is to carry out essential tasks that may include controlling distillation units, drilling rigs, and managing drilling mud systems amongst many others depending on the industry they work for. In Nigeria, there are loads of opportunities for skilled plant operators as there are several industries that thrive on the knowledge of these professionals. So, if you have been thinking about the possibility of the plant operator job being a good one, it is.

What do Plant Operators do?

Plant operators are professionals who ensure that industrial and manufacturing plants work perfectly and are properly maintained. They can work and be specialized in different sections such as power generation, chemical processing, water treatment, oil refining, and more. Also, they monitor all equipment available within the plant, control every process taking place, troubleshoot issues, and make sure that appropriate actions are taken to maintain the plant’s efficiency and safety. So, it is safe to say that plant operators are usually up and doing, following certain procedures to get the work done.

Main Responsibilities of a Plant Operator

Operate and control all systems within the plant to ensure seamless process and function.
Engaging in outlined routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning and lubricating equipment, checking for malfunctions and irregularities, and fixing minor repairs when necessary.
Keeping records such as parameters, and plant status during plant operations.
Responding to emergencies, such as equipment failures, fires, leaks, or other critical incidents, following emergency response procedures.
Utilizing excavators of different degrees.
Conducting a safety check on different machines and equipment within the plant.

Important Skills for a Plant Operator

Attention to Details
Communication
Machine knowledge
Problem-solving
Record keeping
Time Management
Critical thinking
Teamwork
Engineering knowledge
Creativity
Computer savvy

How much salary does a Plant Operator in Nigeria earn?

Plant operators work in different plant industries and this can influence their remuneration. Industry A might pay more than industry B and usually, this has nothing to do with the level of expertise. However, the level of expertise can also determine how much a plant operator is paid monthly/yearly. According to Glassdoor, the estimated total salary of a plant operator per year is N32,000,000 which means ideally, a plant operator should earn N2,600,000 monthly.