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Chemical Operator Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Material Operator

Wartburg, TN · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Material Operator Permanent About Heraeus Making displays foldable? Helping hearts beat with ... Chemistry - Develop knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances ...

Material Operator

Wartburg, TN

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Material Operator Permanent About Heraeus Making displays foldable? Helping hearts beat with ... Chemistry - Develop knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances ...

Production Operator 2

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

May provide assistance to Production Operator I with more general support tasks that require a ... Experience with food chemical or drug manufacturing equipment preferred. * Understands Current Good ...

Production Operator II

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

May provide assistance to Production Operator I with more general support tasks that require a ... Experience with food chemical or drug manufacturing equipment preferred. * Understands Current Good ...

Production Operator 2

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

May provide assistance to Production Operator I with more general support tasks that require a ... Experience with food chemical or drug manufacturing equipment preferred. * Understands Current Good ...

Production Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... operating procedures. * Participates in all activities required to maintain a clean and safe plant ... Experience with food, chemical, or drug manufacturing equipment preferred. * Ability to learn and ...

Production Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... operating procedures. * Participates in all activities required to maintain a clean and safe plant ... Experience with food, chemical, or drug manufacturing equipment preferred. * Ability to learn and ...

Production Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... operating procedures. * Participates in all activities required to maintain a clean and safe plant ... Experience with food, chemical, or drug manufacturing equipment preferred. * Ability to learn and ...

Production Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... operating procedures. * Participates in all activities required to maintain a clean and safe plant ... Experience with food, chemical, or drug manufacturing equipment preferred. * Ability to learn and ...

Production Operator I

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... operating procedures. * Participates in all activities required to maintain a clean and safe plant ... Experience with food, chemical, or drug manufacturing equipment preferred. * Ability to learn and ...

Production Operator 1-2

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

... operating procedures. * Participates in all activities required to maintain a clean and safe plant ... Experience with food, chemical, or drug manufacturing equipment preferred. * Ability to learn and ...

Yard Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running ... Ability to work with exposure to extremes in temperature, chemical, dust fumes and mists, uneven ...

Yard Operator

Knoxville, TN

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Whether you will spend your day brainstorming in an office cubicle, operating a crane, running ... Ability to work with exposure to extremes in temperature, chemical, dust fumes and mists, uneven ...

Dish Machine Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$10 - $12.25/hr

  • Medical

  • PTO

As a Dish Machine Operator, you are a key part of our Back of House team-ensuring cleanliness ... Operate the dish machine efficiently while maintaining proper water temperatures and chemical ...

Showing results 21-40

Chemical Operator information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do chemical operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical operator 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 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 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 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 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.

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.

Are chemical operators in demand?

Chemical operators are in demand due to ongoing needs in manufacturing, processing, and chemical production industries. Employment opportunities often require knowledge of safety protocols, equipment operation, and sometimes certifications, making experienced operators valuable in maintaining efficient plant operations.

How much do chemical operators make?

Chemical operators in Michigan typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. They often work in manufacturing environments, operating and monitoring chemical processing equipment, and may require safety training and knowledge of regulatory standards.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

The most popular types of Chemical Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN?

For Chemical Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chemical Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Operator jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Chemical Operator jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Chemical Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemical Operator job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,720 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Forklift Operator (Loudon, TN) - Austin Industrial

Austin External

Loudon, TN • On-site

$15 - $17.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Forklift Operator

Austin Industrial delivers premier maintenance, construction, and soft craft services to leading industrial companies across the U.S. An industry leader for more than 60 years, we offer single-source solutions to our customers in the oil, gas, chemical, food, agriculture, power, and manufacturing industries. Our team of employee-owners, equipped with innovative technology and optimized procedures, helps owners optimize safety, productivity, profit margins, and cost-efficiency.

The Forklift Operator is responsible for operating a stationary or traveling Forklift to lift, move, position, and reposition loads. Depresses buttons, lifts levers, and ensures load is safely loaded to Forklift before making any lift. Move products, equipment, or materials to and from industrial work areas by performing the following essential duties and responsibilities. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Operate standup or sit-down Forklift under general supervision.
  • Manipulate or depress cane controls to regulate speed and direction of Forklift and hoist movement according to written, verbal, or signal instructions.
  • Report repairs for Forklift as needed.
  • Inspect Forklift for safety issues daily.
  • Determine if any parts are malfunctioning.
  • Cleans, maintains, and lubricates equipment.
  • Complete job tickets, service quality summaries, and all other necessary paperwork.
  • Lift, position and place machinery, equipment or other large objects at construction sites and industrial facilities.
  • Drive trucks to worksites and unload trucks.
  • Place blocks and outriggers to prevent capsizing when lifting heavy loads.
  • Move levers and pedals to move Forklift on chassis to raise and lower Forklift Forks to raise and lower load-line.
  • Work within precise limits and standards of accuracy.
  • Operate Forklift according to signals from helper.
  • Start and stop Forklift engine.
  • Must be able to perform work wearing personnel protective equipment. Including but not limited to the following: rain gear, chemical protective clothing, supplied air and air purifying respirators, safety harness, sand blast hoods, fire resistant coveralls, hard hat, ear plugs and safety glasses.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to have full range of mobility in upper and lower body, able to reach overhead, able to work in various positions, including, but not limited to, stooping, standing, bending over, sitting, kneeling, squatting; use hands to handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; work at heights; balance for extended periods of time.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Required for this Position:

Education – no minimum education requirements.

Experience – 1+ year of operating experience.

Must pass drug screen, pre-employment physical, and background check, as condition of employment.

We offer excellent benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, and a matching 401K plan. We are proud to be a 100% Employee-Owned Company (ESOP)! To learn more about our employee-ownership structure, please go to https://www.austin-ind.com/our-company/100-employee-owned.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work for ANY employer in the United States. Austin Industrial is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this position.

Austin Industrial is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

See the "Know Your Rights" poster available in English and Spanish.

About Austin Industrial

Austin Industrial provides premier self-perform maintenance, construction, and soft craft service to leading industrial companies across the U.S. An industry leader for more than 60 years, we offer single-source solutions to our customers in the oil, gas, chemical, food, agriculture, power, and manufacturing industries.

To learn more about us, visit https://www.austin-ind.com/what-we-do/industrial.

No Third-Party Inquiries Please

This Company does not accept and will not consider unsolicited resumes, or any other unsolicited candidate information submitted to the Company or any of its employee-owners by staffing agencies, search firms, or third-party recruiters in response to a posted vacancy. The Company will not pay any placement fee(s) without a written agreement to do so (i.e., payment must be required pursuant to the terms of a written agreement).

Any unsolicited resumes or candidate information submitted to this Company or any of its employee-owners becomes the property of the Company.

Accessibility Note

If you are a job seeker with a disability and require reasonable accommodation to apply for one of our jobs or have accessibility concerns, please contact the People Services Team at (877) 831-1217.