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As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Plant Operator in South Dakota is $72,096 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $35.
However, a Plant Operator's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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Plant Operator Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
| 75th Percentile | $81,408 | $6,784 | $1,566 | $39 |
| Average | $72,096 | $6,008 | $1,386 | $35 |
| 25th Percentile | $67,360 | $5,613 | $1,295 | $32 |
POET - Mitchell, SD
Glacial Lakes Energy - Huron, SD
Cargill - Emery, SD
Millborn - Brookings, SD
A Plant Operator's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Plant Operator's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Power Pla... Level Plant Operator | $62,263 |
| Plant Ope... Level Plant Operator | $72,425 |
| Power Pla... Level Plant Operator | $81,338 |
| Power Pla... Level Plant Operator | $94,161 |
| Power Pla... Level Plant Operator | $108,711 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Plant Operators. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:
For Plant Operator roles, the industry you choose can impact your earning potential by as much as 40% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the highest-paying industry, MFG Durable, offers compensation 20% above the average. Conversely, Plant Operator positions in Energy & Utilities typically offer lower base pay, as this sector often view Plant Operator as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| MFG Durable | $86,515 | $42.0 | 20% |
Understanding how a Plant Operator's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $81,408 | $6,784 | $1,566 | $39 |
| Average | $72,096 | $6,008 | $1,386 | $35 |
| 25th Percentile | $67,360 | $5,613 | $1,295 | $32 |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Plant Operator job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
Project Solutions Inc.
Rapid City, SD
Project Solutions Inc. | Rapid City, SD
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The H&K Group
RAHNS, PA
The H&K Group | RAHNS, PA
H&K does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, veteran... more
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Orica
NORTH POLE, AK
Orica | NORTH POLE, AK
Orica is seeking a dedicated Plant Operator to join our Manufacturing & Production team in the Mining & Quarrying sector. In this role, you will operate an... more
4 Days Ago
TSG - The Sheridan Group
WHITE RIVER JUNCTION, VT
TSG - The Sheridan Group
WEST WOODSTOCK, VT
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