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Chemical Operator Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Melt Operator

Wartburg, TN

$16 - $21.50/hr

Chemistry - Develop knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances ... Our Recruiting Team, Heraeus Precious Metals, is happy to assist you by email: [[cust_RecTeam]]. Or ...

Melt Operator

Wartburg, TN · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Chemistry - Develop knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances ... Our Recruiting Team, Heraeus Precious Metals, is happy to assist you by email: ((cust_RecTeam)). Or ...

Monitor pulp tank operations by checking water chemistry, chemical levels, pressure, and ... * Assist with basic electrical troubleshooting and mechanical checks as training and skill level ...

Smelter Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

... company specifications. * Assist with other duties and special projects, as assigned ... High School Diploma * 1 to 3 years experience in basic chemical operations or related experience ...

Smelter Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

... company specifications. * Assist with other duties and special projects, as assigned ... High School Diploma * 1 to 3 years experience in basic chemical operations or related experience ...

What You'll Do * Assist maintenance personnel when requested/needed * Participate in the CMC Safety ... Ability to work with exposure to extremes in temperature, chemical, dust fumes and mists, uneven ...

What You'll Do * Assist maintenance personnel when requested/needed * Participate in the CMC Safety ... Ability to work with exposure to extremes in temperature, chemical, dust fumes and mists, uneven ...

What You'll Do * Assist maintenance personnel when requested/needed * Participate in the CMC Safety ... Ability to work with exposure to extremes in temperature, chemical, dust fumes and mists, uneven ...

Responsibilities: * Assist with the development, design, optimization, and day-to-day operation of ... Develop, update, and maintain standard operating procedures, work instructions, and training ...

Responsibilities: * Assist with the development, design, optimization, and day-to-day operation of ... Develop, update, and maintain standard operating procedures, work instructions, and training ...

Responsibilities: * Assist with the development, design, optimization, and day-to-day operation of ... Develop, update, and maintain standard operating procedures, work instructions, and training ...

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Chemical Operator Assistant information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do chemical operator assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical operator assistant in Oak Ridge, TN is $19.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.69 and $20.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Chemical Operator Assistant do?

A Chemical Operator Assistant supports chemical operators in the day-to-day operations of chemical manufacturing plants. Their duties typically include preparing raw materials, monitoring equipment, collecting samples, and assisting with the safe handling of chemicals. They also help with cleaning, maintenance, and following safety protocols to ensure smooth and safe production processes. Chemical Operator Assistants work under supervision and must pay close attention to detail to prevent accidents and maintain product quality.

How to get a job as a chemical operator?

To become a chemical operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring post-secondary education or technical training in chemistry or process technology. Relevant skills include attention to detail, safety awareness, and familiarity with industrial equipment; obtaining certifications such as OSHA safety training can improve job prospects. Experience in manufacturing or industrial environments is often preferred by employers.

What jobs pay $250 an hour?

In the field of chemical operations, high-paying roles such as senior chemical engineers or process managers can earn around $250 per hour, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications. These positions often require a strong understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols, and management responsibilities. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and level of expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chemical Operator Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Operator Assistant, you need a basic understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial equipment, safety data sheets (SDS), and chemical handling procedures is typically required, and OSHA certification can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication skills are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies help maintain safe operations, ensure compliance with regulations, and support efficient production in chemical manufacturing environments.

What does a chemical operator do?

A chemical operator is responsible for operating and monitoring equipment used in the production of chemicals, ensuring safety and quality standards are met. They often work with control panels, follow safety protocols, and may need certifications such as OSHA training. Their role involves maintaining continuous production processes and troubleshooting equipment issues.

What is the difference between Chemical Operator Assistant vs Chemical Technician?

AspectChemical Operator AssistantChemical Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentFactories, chemical plants, manufacturing facilitiesLaboratories, manufacturing plants, quality control labs
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical production, pharmaceuticalsResearch, development, quality assurance in chemical industries
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in chemical plantsCompared for technical and analytical roles in chemical industries

The Chemical Operator Assistant typically performs support tasks under supervision in manufacturing environments, requiring minimal formal education. In contrast, a Chemical Technician usually holds an associate degree and works in labs or quality control, focusing on testing and analysis. Both roles are essential in chemical industries but differ in responsibilities, education, and work settings.

What are some common challenges faced by Chemical Operator Assistants, and how can they effectively handle them?

Chemical Operator Assistants often encounter challenges such as working with hazardous materials, maintaining strict safety protocols, and responding quickly to equipment malfunctions. To handle these effectively, it's important to be vigilant about personal protective equipment (PPE), thoroughly follow standard operating procedures, and communicate promptly with team members and supervisors when issues arise. Continuous training and a proactive attitude towards safety and teamwork help ensure a safe and efficient work environment.
What are popular job titles related to Chemical Operator Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? For Chemical Operator Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chemical Operator Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Chemical Operator Assistant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Chemical Operator Assistant jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Chemical Operator Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Chemical Operator Assistant job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,720 per year, or $19.6 per hour.
Melt Operator

$16 - $21.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Heraeus Group rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Melt Operator
Permanent 
 

About Heraeus

Making displays foldable? Helping hearts beat with medical innovations? Or breathing new life into precious metals? As a family-owned global technology group we help our customers to always being one step ahead.


About Heraeus Precious Metals

With more than 350 years of experience in precious metals processing, Heraeus Precious Metals is the world's leading provider of innovative products and services, such as precious metals trading and recycling. Our products are used in a wide range of industries, for example to reduce climate killers such as nitrous oxide and methane and in the form of pharmaceutical ingredients for the treatment of cancer.

Our innovative strength is driven by our 3,000 employees at more than 15 sites worldwide, who work passionately with our partners to develop pioneering and sustainable solutions.

Our vision: We create innovative precious metals products and services, leading the way to a sustainable future. To achieve this, we have set ourselves ambitious targets.

The primary responsibility of this position is to melt and refine materials in a safe manner according to customer and company specifications.

  • Lend every assistance to assure the success of our sales network, by maintaining open and accurate communications with all operators and the Shift Lead Person,
  • Record production or process data and maintain logs, as required.
  • Observe and record key process indicators such as air and temperature gauges or metal color and fluidity and turn fuel valves or adjust controls to maintain required temperatures.
  • Maintain material accountability during preparation and production by utilization of scales or other measuring equipment in compliance with standard procedures.
  • Possess the ability to accurately follow sampling protocol for analytical testing
  • Organize the materials into drums to be closed, sealed and weighed prior to shipment according to customer and company specifications.
  • Chemistry - Develop knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Employee discount
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

Curious? Apply now!

We look forward to receiving your documents by reference code 59331 via our online application portal - even if you don't meet all the requirements, but have good reasons why you are still the right fit for this role!
Any further questions?

Our Recruiting Team, Heraeus Precious Metals, is happy to assist you by email: [[cust_RecTeam]]. Or visit us at jobs.heraeus.com.

 
 
 


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