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Chemical Manufacturing Operator Jobs in California

Chemical Operator

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $22.50/hr

The person in this role is responsible for manufacturing chemical products while assuring ... The Chemical Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of plant processes and ...

Chemical Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$34.97/hr

Position: Chemical Operator Reports to: Plant Manager Shift: Monday to Friday - 8 hours/day ... Perform chemical manufacturing operations in safe and effective manner. * Recording information ...

Position: Chemical Operator Reports to: Plant Manager Shift: Monday to Friday - 8 hours/day ... Perform chemical manufacturing operations in safe and effective manner. * Recording information ...

Chemical Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$34.97/hr

Position: Chemical Operator Reports to: Plant Manager Shift: Monday to Friday - 8 hours/day ... Perform chemical manufacturing operations in safe and effective manner. * Recording information ...

Chemical Operator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $23.75/hr

Chemical Operator reports to the Production Supervisor - is responsible for Safety, evaluating ... Candidate with 2 years' experience in a chemical manufacturing or distribution environment is ...

New

Manufacturing Operator II

Fremont, CA · On-site

$19.25 - $23/hr

Manufacturing Operator II Location: Fremont, CA 94538 Duration: 12 Months Job Type: Temporary ... Ability to handle and work with biological and chemical reagents. * Ability to frequently work at ...

Chemical Operator

Los Angeles, CA

$20.75 - $23.75/hr

Chemical Operator Location: Commerce CA 90040 Work Schedule: Monday to Friday, from 9:00 am - 5:30 ... Excellent communication skills * 2 years' experience in chemical manufacturing or distribution ...

New

... chemical manufacturing lines in Fontana, CA. This is a mid-senior level "player-coach" role ... Direct and mentor a team of 10+ operators; fluency in both English and Spanish is required. KPI ...

Production Operator - Glendale, CA Our client is currently looking for a Production Operator for their chemical manufacturing site in Los Angeles (Glendale), CA. As a flexible and motivated team ...

Chemical Operator - Temp to Hire for the right candidate. Two Interviews: Phone - 30 mins; Onsite - 1 hour Candidates MUST have experience in chemical manufacturing. Torrance Operations Manager Job ...

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Chemical Manufacturing Operator information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$25

How much do chemical manufacturing operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical manufacturing operator in California is $20.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chemical manufacturing operator do?

A Chemical Manufacturing Operator is responsible for overseeing the production of chemicals in a manufacturing facility. They operate and monitor equipment, follow safety and quality protocols, and ensure that production processes run smoothly and efficiently. Their duties often include mixing raw materials, controlling reaction conditions, troubleshooting equipment issues, and recording production data. Operators must adhere to strict safety guidelines due to the hazardous nature of many chemicals. This role is vital to maintaining product quality and workplace safety in chemical manufacturing plants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chemical manufacturing operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Manufacturing Operator, you need a solid understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or technical certification in chemical operations. Familiarity with process control systems, laboratory equipment, and safety management tools like MSDS is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and strong teamwork skills help operators respond effectively to process changes and safety concerns. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining safe, efficient, and compliant chemical production environments.

What are some common challenges chemical manufacturing operators face, and how can they be managed on the job?

Chemical Manufacturing Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety standards, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and managing complex chemical processes. To address these, operators receive thorough safety and technical training, follow detailed standard operating procedures, and collaborate closely with engineers and quality control teams. Effective communication and attention to detail are crucial, as is adaptability when responding to unexpected process changes or emergencies. Regular team meetings and ongoing education help operators stay updated on best practices and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Chemical Manufacturing Operator vs Chemical Plant Technician?

AspectChemical Manufacturing OperatorChemical Plant Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications or associate's degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, production lines, chemical processing plantsChemical processing facilities, laboratories, maintenance areas
Job FocusOperating equipment, monitoring processes, ensuring safetyMaintaining equipment, troubleshooting, quality control
Industry UsageCommonly used in manufacturing plants across chemical industriesOften used interchangeably but more technical in maintenance and troubleshooting roles

The main difference between a Chemical Manufacturing Operator and a Chemical Plant Technician lies in their focus and responsibilities. Operators primarily run and monitor production processes, while technicians handle maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical support. Both roles require similar credentials and work in similar environments, but their daily tasks differ slightly based on technical expertise and operational focus.

What job categories do people searching Chemical Manufacturing Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Manufacturing Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Chemical Manufacturing Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Chemical Manufacturing Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemical Manufacturing Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,035 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Chemical Operator

USALCO

Rancho Cucamonga, CA • On-site

$19.75 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


USALCO rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 100 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

USALCO, LLC is a leading provider of aluminum-based component products used in water treatment, pulp and paper manufacturing, the making of catalysts for oil refining, the housing market and other sectors. The right individual will have a can-do attitude, the ability to be part of a team while operating independently and consistently performs to very high standards.

JOB SUMMARY:

The person in this role is responsible for manufacturing chemical products while assuring compliance is achieved in all company associated policies. The position requires a motivated, detail oriented, and results driven team player who:

  • Incorporates safety and quality into every decision while performing day-to-day activities
  • Effectively communicates with Supervisor and peers
  • Can efficiently operate chemical processes and equipment to safely manufacture quality products.
  • Will actively seek out opportunities for process improvement and take full responsibility for collaborating with management and peers to implement approved changes in a timely manner.

The employee in this position will be a positive-natured, task-oriented individual with chemical manufacturing experience and significant mechanical aptitude. The Chemical Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of plant processes and equipment. The person must possess excellent communication skills necessary to keep Supervisor and peers informed of process status. This person must be personally and professionally motivated to work constructively with team members at all levels within the company, to execute job responsibilities

ROLES AND RESPONSIBITIES:1. Overseeing the safe and efficient operation of the process or processes assigned, including the safe transfer of hazardous chemicals.

1. Overseeing the safe and efficient operation of the process or processes assigned, including the safe transfer of hazardous chemicals.

2. Apply all plant safety rules, work guidelines / practices, and procedures

3. Wearing and maintenance of personal protective equipment required for working with hazardous chemicals

4. Developing and applying improvements in processes, equipment and procedures


Daily Responsibilities:

  • Complete walk-thru of the process and equipment to audit safety and housekeeping
  • Perform quality assurance checks for manufactured products
  • Adjust formulations to ensure finished products meet specifications
  • Assist in loading trailers with products
  • Unload raw materials as needed
  • Complete Certificates of Compliance for loaded trailers
  • Complete all paperwork accurately including batch sheets, run sheets and shift reports
  • Maintain and communicate in Daily Management practices for the facility
  • Maintenance
  • Complete MaintainX work order requests for maintenance issues
  • Inspect plant equipment daily and report any issues to Supervisor
  • Must be able to work overtime, provide physical labor and work changing shifts as required to meet business requirements.
  • Perform other duties as assigned in support of business goals and objectives.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

  • Requires planning skills to prioritize daily process operation
  • Must be able to pay attention to detail
  • Knowledge of chemical manufacturing and equipment
  • Must be dependable, flexible and able to respond on short notice to satisfy requirements of customers.
  • Requires good interpersonal and communication skills.
  • The ability to clearly and succinctly communicate with others, both verbally and in written form
  • Strong Analytical and Mathematical aptitude
  • Ability to effectively work with Microsoft Office Applications – Word, Excel and Outlook
  • Must be able to obtain Fork Lift certification through USALCO within 30 calendar days of being hired if applicable to site.
  • Must be able to learn the chemical operator position within 60 calendar days of being hired.

EDUCATION:

  • A High School Diploma or equivalent

EXPERIENCE:

  • Chemical, Pharmaceutical or Food manufacturing environment, preferred
  • Chemical manufacturing experience
  • Prior Forklift driving experience

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The Ability to:

  • Must be able to participate in site respirator program (if applicable), pass Spirometry test, and comply to wear one, as required.
  • Routinely lift up to 75 lbs. throughout the shift
  • Routinely stand up to 80% of shift
  • Routinely traverse the site to various buildings
  • Routinely traverse ship ladders, catwalks and close quarters
  • Work at elevated platforms without hesitation or fear
  • Work inside confined spaces, as needed

USALCO is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. As a general policy, USALCO does not offer employment visa sponsorships upon hire or in the future.



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