1

Autoclave Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Autoclave Operator

Lena, IL · On-site

$19/hr

AUTOCLAVE OPERATORS APPLY HERE! Potential for all expenses paid training in France! Summary/Objective This position is responsible for all tasks involved in the production of brie, goat, and feta ...

Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Autoclave Operator to lead the implementation and operation of a new autoclave system within our growing defense-focused manufacturing environment. This is a ...

Autoclave Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

$17.50/hr

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic, energetic, and eager Regulated Wasted-Autoclave Operator in Detroit. About DO & CO: We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every ...

Autoclave Operator

Detroit, MI · On-site

$17.50/hr

We have an incredible opportunity for a dynamic, energetic, and eager Regulated Wasted-Autoclave Operator in Detroit. About DO & CO: We have a passion for hospitality culinary delights on every ...

Autoclave Operator Tech

Savannah, GA · On-site

$21.21 - $25.66/hr

Aviation Technology Associates (AVTECH Global) is looking for an Autoclave Operator Tech. Pay Rate: $21.21 to $25.66 per hour (depending on experience, location, etc.) Job Type: Full-time, Contract ...

Aviation Technology Associates (AVTECH Global) is looking for an Autoclave Operator Tech. Pay Rate: $21.21 to $25.66 per hour (depending on experience, location, etc.) Job Type: Full-time, Contract ...

Autoclave Operator Tech

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$21.21 - $25.66/hr

Aviation Technology Associates (AVTECH Global) is looking for an Autoclave Operator Tech. Pay Rate: $21.21 to $25.66 per hour (depending on experience, location, etc.) Job Type: Full-time, Contract ...

TITLE: 3rd shift Cutting Table Operator /Backup autoclave operator REPORTS TO: Production Cell Leader-Lay-up/Kitting PURPOSE OF POSITION: The individual will have daily responsibilities related to ...

Ovens Operator

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Ovens & Autoclave Operator CTL Aerospace is a full service NADCAP certified composite-manufacturing company providing services to the major aerospace and governmental organizations since 1946. CTL ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Autoclave Operator information

See salary details

$5

$15

$17

How much do autoclave operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for autoclave operator in the United States is $15.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of an autoclave operator?

An autoclave operator is responsible for operating and monitoring autoclaves to sterilize equipment, supplies, or materials using high-pressure saturated steam. They ensure proper functioning, follow safety protocols, and maintain documentation of sterilization cycles, often requiring knowledge of sterilization standards and certification. The role typically involves routine inspections, troubleshooting, and adherence to strict cleanliness and safety procedures.

What are some typical challenges an Autoclave Operator might face during daily operations?

Autoclave Operators often encounter challenges like maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and ensuring correct loading to achieve consistent sterilization or material treatment. They must also carefully monitor temperature, pressure, and timing to avoid process deviations, which can impact product quality or safety. Effective communication with maintenance teams and quality control staff is essential for quickly resolving issues and maintaining workflow efficiency.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

The highest paying machine operator jobs are often in specialized fields such as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine operators, industrial machinery operators, or those working in the oil and gas industry. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and experience, and can offer higher salaries compared to standard machine operator positions.

Do autoclaves need to be certified?

Autoclave operators should ensure that autoclaves are properly certified and maintained according to industry standards to ensure safety and effectiveness. Certification often involves regular inspections and validation to meet regulatory requirements, especially in healthcare, laboratory, or sterilization environments.

What is the difference between Autoclave Operator vs Sterilization Technician?

AspectAutoclave OperatorSterilization Technician
CertificationsOften requires OSHA or industry-specific safety trainingTypically requires sterilization or healthcare-related certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, laboratories, medical device manufacturingHospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical facilities
Job FocusOperating autoclaves to sterilize equipment and materialsPreparing, monitoring, and documenting sterilization processes

Both roles involve sterilization processes, but Autoclave Operators primarily focus on operating autoclaves in industrial or manufacturing settings, while Sterilization Technicians work mainly in healthcare environments ensuring proper sterilization of medical tools. Certifications and work environments overlap but differ based on industry specifics.

What are the 4 types of autoclaves?

Autoclave operators work with four main types of autoclaves: gravity displacement, pre-vacuum (or high-vacuum), water spray, and vacuum sterilizers. Each type uses different sterilization methods and is suited for specific materials and industries, requiring operators to understand their functions and proper operation procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Autoclave Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Autoclave Operator, you need a solid understanding of sterilization processes, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with autoclave machinery, pressure gauges, temperature controls, and sometimes certification in hazardous materials handling or OSHA compliance is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong organizational skills help operators maintain strict safety and quality standards. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure effective sterilization, prevent contamination, and maintain workplace safety in industries like healthcare and manufacturing.

What is an Autoclave Operator?

An Autoclave Operator is a skilled technician responsible for operating and maintaining autoclave machines, which use high pressure and temperature to sterilize equipment, materials, or to cure composites and other products. They ensure that items are loaded correctly, monitor cycles, and verify that sterilization or curing meets safety and quality standards. Autoclave Operators often work in healthcare, manufacturing, or research settings where strict hygiene or material properties are critical. Their role also includes routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and documentation of sterilization or processing procedures.

What Is the Job of an Autoclave Operator?

An autoclave is a powerful heated machine used for chemical reactions using high pressure and temperatures, such as steam sterilization. Autoclave operators operate and monitor this specialized pressure chamber in different settings. They work in hospitals or other healthcare facilities sterilizing surgical devices and other medical instruments. You may also function as an autoclave operator for a manufacturer of rubber products or yarn. In this position, you utilize the machine to vulcanize rubber or cure rubber composites and preset and preshrink yarn.

What cities are hiring for Autoclave Operator jobs? Cities with the most Autoclave Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Autoclave Operator jobs? The most popular types of Autoclave Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Autoclave Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Autoclave Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Autoclave Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Autoclave Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Autoclave Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,898 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Autoclave Operator

Kolb-Lena, Inc.

Lena, IL • On-site

$19/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

AUTOCLAVE OPERATORS APPLY HERE! Potential for all expenses paid training in France!

Summary/Objective
This position is responsible for all tasks involved in the production of brie, goat, and feta cheese. The goal of a production operator is to use equipment to assist with manufacturing, packaging, and other steps along in the production environment.

This position follows standard work methods and practices safe work habits to ensure production is as efficient and safe as possible.

Essential Functions
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Autoclave operator will operate autoclave to ensure functioning unit with respect to temperature and pressure parameters
• Responsible for moving product in and out of the autoclave for processing
• Maintain and fill out records for each process step in the operation of the autoclave
• Operate processing under SOPs developed for operation
• Adhere to daily and weekly SSOP in regard to sanitation and cleaning
• Report any deviations from standards to Supervisor or Manager

Competencies
Job Knowledge
Quality of Work
Job Safety
Cost Control
Teamwork & Leadership
Inclusion& Communication

Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee works in a manufacturing environment with the following conditions:

Exposure to hot or cold Climate frequently;
Exposure to chemical frequently;
Exposure to noise and vibration frequently;
Exposure to wet and humid conditions frequently.

Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties on the job, the physical demands are:
Stand – continuously;
Stoop/Bend – frequently;
Squat - occasionally;
Crawl - never;
Climb Stairs or ladders – frequently;
Reach – chest level, above or below – continuously;
Push - 1000 lbs. occasionally with a pallet jack;
Pull - 1000 lbs. occasionally with a pallet jack;
Lift/carry - up to 70 lbs. frequently.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Days and hours vary depending on the shift and department. Overtime and weekend work is required at times. Vacation coverage as needed.

Travel
None is required for this position

Required Education and Experience
1. Ability to speak, read, write and comprehend English;
2. Cheesemaker license is required for level 3;
3. 1 year or more of Forklift Experience & Certification for Material Handler.

Preferred Education and Experience
1. High school diploma or equivalent;
2. Experience working in a food manufacturing environment;
3. Capable of operating without direct supervision.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications
None is required for this position

Work Authorization/Security Clearance
Eligible to work in USA

Food Safety and Product Quality
This position is responsible for supporting the food safety management system and for communicating food safety issues to the Quality Department.

Affirmative Action Plan/Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Savencia Cheese USA provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Further, the company takes affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed and employees are treated during employment without regard to any of these characteristics. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.

Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.