In the long run, the career outlook for plant operators is consistent with many job openings resulting from a retiring workforce, creating a steady stream of opportunities for new operators. For future operators to succeed, reskilling and upskilling to manage advanced technology will be critical. Initial training for this position begins with an associate degree as a process technician. Contact ITI Technical College today to learn more about plant operator positions.

Key Trends In The Plant Operator Industry

Significant trends in the plant operator industry are shaped by rapid technological advancements, the transition to renewable energy sources, and the increasing focus on sustainability. These forces are changing traditional operational roles, requiring new skills in automation, data analysis, predictive maintenance, and operator certification.

The two top current trends in plant operation are automation and operating efficiency. Plant operators and prospective operators must prepare to take advantage of them in these ways:

• Technology and Automation: The use of advanced technology and automation in control rooms allows plants to operate more efficiently with a skilled operator and fewer employees. This trend has been observed across various sectors.
• Focus on Oversight and Analysis: As automation handles repetitive tasks, the operator’s role is shifting. Instead of manually performing tasks, operators are becoming supervisors who monitor automated systems, analyze data, and make high-level decisions.
• Increased Efficiency: Automated systems provide manufacturing plant jobs and operators with more data and predictive insights, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing the risk of costly, unplanned downtime.

A Plant Operator May Face Aging Infrastructure

 Much of the nation’s critical infrastructure, including power plants and wastewater facilities, is rapidly aging. This increases the risk of system failures, requiring increased vigilance from operators. Many older facilities are being upgraded with modern systems, which can be challenging and expensive. Operators will be responsible for managing equipment with different levels of technology and following new operating procedures.

A plant operator may also face aging infrastructure due to a combination of physical degradation, increased operational stress, financial constraints, and obsolescence. As equipment and facilities age, they become more prone to failures and less reliable, requiring more from operators who manage the day-to-day work.

The upgrading of infrastructure is often required to meet stricter environmental and safety regulations. Operators will need to be proficient in ensuring compliance with new regulations as standards evolve.

“In the long run, the career outlook for plant operators is consistent with many job openings resulting from a retiring workforce, creating a steady stream of opportunities for new operators.”

Plant Workforce Turnover

New plant operators must work effectively despite high employee turnover, such as technicians leaving manufacturing plant jobs. The greatest challenges facing them include:

• Consistent Job Openings: Despite the overall decline in employment numbers, the industry has a steady demand for new talent to replace retiring operators (baby boomers). In some fields, such as water and wastewater treatment, this “replacement demand” accounts for thousands of job openings each year.
• Risk of Knowledge Loss: The retirement of experienced operators poses a challenge for the industry, as it can lead to a loss of institutional knowledge. This creates an opportunity for new operators to learn from seasoned staff who work in manufacturing plant jobs and for companies to implement systems that capture and leverage that expertise.

Factors Contributing To Turnover:

• Scheduling and Flexibility –Plants often have rigid schedules, which is a significant factor for many employees.
• Inadequate Benefits – A lack of benefits or compensation can lead employees to seek better opportunities elsewhere.
• Job Nature: -The demanding and sometimes dangerous nature of plant work is a significant factor.
• Lack of Growth Opportunities – General employees need avenues for career advancement and skill development.

Strategies For A New Or Existing Plant Operator

Given the major industry shifts, both new entrants and veteran operators must adapt to stay relevant. Here is how they can accomplish this goal with new technical and soft skills:

Acquire New Technical Skills:

Automation and controls: Learn to program, monitor, and troubleshoot automated systems like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers).

Data analysis: Become proficient in analyzing data from the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) to monitor equipment performance and predict maintenance needs.

Cybersecurity: As systems become more connected, understanding and managing cybersecurity risks is increasingly important.

Develop Soft Skills:

Problem-solving: Cultivate the ability to diagnose and solve complex issues that automated systems cannot handle.

Interpersonal skills: With automation handling more routine tasks, interpersonal skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication become more valuable.

Seek Specialized Training:

Certification programs: Pursue certifications that validate your skills with specific equipment or in specialized areas, such as robotics or automation technology. Operator certification is a must for advancing to a plant operator.

On-the-job training: Take advantage of employer-provided reskilling programs that train existing employees to work with new technology.

Where To Train For Plant Operator Positions      

ITI Technical College is a great place to train for plant operator positions. Our Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in the Process Technology Program provides knowledge and skills that prepare students for entry-level positions in various industries. Explore what we have to offer for your future as a plant operator.

 

For more information about graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website: https://iticollege.edu/disclosures/