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Plant Technician

A Plant Technician operates equipment in manufacturing, maintains machinery, and ensures production runs smoothly while following procedures.

How do I become a plant technician

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

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Plant Technician generally earns $1,050 per week ($54,600 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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The number of people working in this job role has increased in recent years. There are currently 13,700 people employed as a Plant Technician in Australia compared to 10,100 five years ago. Plant Technicians may find work across all regions of Australia, particularly larger towns and cities where plant facilities are located.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If a career as a Plant Technician interests you, consider enrolling in a Certificate II in Process Plant Operations. You’ll cover various aspects of operational safety and choose from electives including working at heights, controlling minor incidents and working in confined spaces. You could also consider a Certificate II in Competitive Systems and Practices or a Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations.

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Further reading

A Beginner's Guide to Laboratory Technician Training in Australia

7th February 2025

Most popular manufacturing courses

19th July 2022

Most popular horticulture courses

29th June 2022

Plant Technician careers

A Plant Technician performs a range of duties at a processing or manufacturing facility. You might operate a particular piece of equipment or be part of the production process. A Plant Technician, also called a Technician, Chemical Plant Technician or a Process Plant Technician, may have to maintain plant equipment and organise repairs when necessary.

Plant Technicians require excellent technical skills and strong attention to detail. It’s important that you can follow instructions and work to correct procedures. Plant Technicians must have good teamwork abilities and be able to manage their time well.