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Chemical Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Operator

Chattanooga, TN

$17.50 - $20/hr

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 ...

Chemical Operator - EG

Charleston, TN · On-site

$16 - $18.25/hr

Chemical Operator - EG Job Location (Short): Charleston, TN, USA, 37310 Posting Start Date: 5/27/26 Do you want to take responsibility and make a difference with your work? With your expertise, we ...

Chemical Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$40.37/hr

Draslovka is hiring an experienced Chemical Operator for our Memphis Plant. Minimum Qualifications Required: * Candidate must possess the demonstrated ability and job aptitude to perform the ...

Chemical Operator

Millington, TN

$17.75 - $20.50/hr

The Chemical Plant Operator is responsible for maintaining safety, plant production, operating efficiency and regulatory compliance. Job Responsibilities Operate equipment and processes according to ...

Salary: $40.37/hr - $45.32/hr Draslovka is hiring an experienced Chemical Operator for our Memphis Plant. Minimum Qualifications Required: Candidate must possess the demonstrated ability and job ...

Draslovka is hiring an experienced Chemical Operator for our Memphis Plant. Minimum Qualifications Required: Candidate must possess the demonstrated ability and job aptitude to perform the essential ...

Chemical Operator

Millington, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $20.50/hr

The Chemical Plant Operator is responsible for maintaining safety, plant production, operating efficiency and regulatory compliance. Job Responsibilities • Operate equipment and processes according ...

Chemical Operator

Memphis, TN · On-site

$40.37 - $45.32/hr

Draslovka is hiring an experienced Chemical Operator for our Memphis Plant. Minimum Qualifications Required: • Candidate must possess the demonstrated ability and job aptitude to perform the ...

Chemical Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$34.64/hr

Must have 3+ years of industrial chemical operator experience * Ability to follow Good Manufacturing Practices including the proper wearing of clean protective clothing, following personal hygiene ...

Chemical Operator

Nashville, TN · On-site

$34.64/hr

Must have 3+ years of industrial chemical operator experience * Ability to follow Good Manufacturing Practices including the proper wearing of clean protective clothing, following personal hygiene ...

Chemical Production Operator

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $21/hr

What you will be doing As our Chemical Production Operator, you will be responsible for manufacturing, packaging, and labeling various bulk industrial chemical products. Specifically, this will ...

Chemical Production Operator

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$18.25 - $21/hr

What you will be doing As our Chemical Production Operator, you will be responsible for manufacturing, packaging, and labeling various bulk industrial chemical products. Specifically, this will ...

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Chemical Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$18

$23

How much do chemical operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical operator in Tennessee is $18.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chemical operator do?

A chemical operator manages overall production in a chemical plant, including the employees, operations, and machinery. Chemical operators’ duties and responsibilities include maintaining plant machines such as mixers, vessels and the control functions. Chemical operators also oversee the production process to ensure it runs smoothly and safely and produces a quality product. Skills and qualifications of a chemical operator include equipment maintenance, leadership, and operational experience in the industry.

What are some common challenges chemical operators face during shift work, and how can they effectively manage them?

Chemical Operators often work rotating shifts, which can disrupt sleep patterns and impact work-life balance. Managing fatigue is crucial—operators should prioritize good sleep hygiene, maintain a consistent routine when possible, and communicate with supervisors about workload concerns. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing production demands and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols are everyday challenges. Building strong teamwork and staying updated on standard operating procedures helps operators handle these demands effectively.

How much do chemical operators make?

In Illinois, chemical operators typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. They often work in manufacturing plants, operating and monitoring chemical processing equipment, and may require safety training and knowledge of regulatory standards.

What is a chemical operator?

Chemical Operators are professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring equipment and processes used in the production of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or other related products. They ensure that manufacturing processes run smoothly, efficiently, and safely by following strict operational procedures and safety regulations. Their tasks often include mixing raw materials, adjusting controls, performing quality checks, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Chemical Operators play a crucial role in maintaining product quality and workplace safety in industrial settings.

What is the difference between Chemical Operator vs Chemical Technician?

AspectChemical OperatorChemical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationsAssociate degree or technical certification in chemistry or related field
Work EnvironmentFactories, chemical plants, manufacturing facilitiesLaboratories, testing facilities, manufacturing support
Job ResponsibilitiesOperate and monitor chemical processing equipment, ensure safety and qualityConduct tests, collect data, assist in process optimization
Industry UsageCommonly employed in chemical manufacturing, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticalsSupport roles in similar industries, focusing on testing and analysis

The main difference between a Chemical Operator and a Chemical Technician lies in their responsibilities and required credentials. Chemical Operators primarily operate and monitor production equipment in manufacturing environments, while Chemical Technicians focus on testing, data collection, and supporting process improvements. Both roles are essential in chemical industries but serve different functions based on skills and training.

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

To thrive as a Chemical Operator, you need a solid understanding of chemical processes, safety procedures, and typically a high school diploma or associate degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with process control systems, laboratory equipment, and safety certifications such as OSHA HAZWOPER is highly valued. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These capabilities ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations in potentially hazardous industrial environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Operator jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Chemical Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Chemical Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Chemical Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chemical Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Chemical Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Chemical Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Chemical Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Chemical Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,658 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Chemical Operator

USALCO

Chattanooga, TN

$17.50 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


USALCO rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 100 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

The statements below are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by associates assigned to this job. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and skills required of associates so classified.

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.

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

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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