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Chemical Operators Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

USALCO

Chemical Operator

Modesto, CA

$20.25 - $23.25/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 ...

USALCO

Chemical Operator

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$19.75 - $22.50/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 ...

Belcan

Chemical Operator

Lake View Terrace, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Job Title: Chemical Management Services II Pay Rate: $24/ hr Location: Sylmar, CA Area Code: 747 ZIP Code: 91342 Start Date: Right Away Keywords: #ChemicalManagementJobs #SylmarJobs #INDP ...

Cal Coast Acidizing

Chemical Blend Operator

Shafter, CA

$26 - $30/hr

We are seeking a Chemical Blend Operator / Yard Support professional to assist with chemical blending, loading, and day-to-day yard operations at an industrial services facility. This role supports ...

Heraeus

RC Chemical Operator

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$2.9K/wk

RC Chemical Operator Permanent Pay Range Min. $22,00 Pay Range Max. $29,00 Creating foldable displays, advancing medical innovations, or giving new life to precious metals - at Heraeus, we empower ...

PPG

Chemical Operator - Sealants, All Shifts

Mojave, CA · On-site

$26/hr

Chemical Operator - Sealants, Mojave CA Pay Rate: $26.00/hour Shift: Hiring all shifts! Must Be ... We are excellent operators Productive. Collaborative. Accountable. No matter our role, we identify ...

Airswift

Jr Chemical Operator

Tehachapi, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $23.25/hr

Airswift is seraching for a Junior Operator to work on a longp-term contract near Tehachapi, CA ... Fill and transport chemical containers to designated staging areas. * Accurately complete ...

Niktor LLC

Chemical Operations Technician

Torrance, CA · On-site

$24/hr

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 ...

PPG

Chemical Operator - Sealants, All Shifts

Mojave, CA · On-site

$26/hr

Chemical Operator - Sealants, Mojave CA Pay Rate: $26.00/hour Shift: Hiring all shifts! Must Be ... We are excellent operators Productive. Collaborative. Accountable. No matter our role, we identify ...

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Chemical Operators information

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How much do chemical operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical operators 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 are some common challenges Chemical Operators face during shift work, and how can these be managed?

Chemical Operators often work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends, which can disrupt sleep patterns and work-life balance. Adapting to changing schedules and maintaining high attention to detail during long or overnight shifts are common challenges. To manage these, operators are encouraged to establish consistent sleep routines, practice effective time management, and communicate closely with team members to ensure safety and smooth handovers. Many employers also offer training on fatigue management and team support to help operators stay alert and effective.

What are chemical operators?

Chemical operators are professionals who control and monitor the machinery and equipment used in chemical manufacturing processes. They are responsible for ensuring that production runs safely and efficiently by following strict protocols and quality standards. Their duties often include measuring raw materials, operating reactors or mixers, monitoring gauges and sensors, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during production. Chemical operators also maintain detailed records and adhere to environmental and safety regulations. This role is essential for producing chemicals used in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, plastics, and energy.

How much do chemical operators make in the US?

Chemical operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, with experienced workers and those in specialized roles earning higher. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, certifications, and the complexity of the manufacturing environment.

What jobs pay $250 an hour?

In the field of chemical operations, high-paying roles such as senior chemical engineers or specialized process engineers can earn around $250 per hour, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand industries like pharmaceuticals or petrochemicals. These positions often require advanced degrees, technical expertise, and sometimes supervisory responsibilities.

What is the difference between Chemical Operators vs Chemical Technicians?

AspectChemical OperatorsChemical Technicians
CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in chemistry or related field
Work EnvironmentFactories, plants, manufacturing facilitiesLaboratories, manufacturing support settings
Job FocusOperating equipment, monitoring processesTesting, analyzing, and assisting in process development

While both Chemical Operators and Chemical Technicians work in chemical manufacturing environments, Chemical Operators primarily operate and monitor equipment on the production floor. Chemical Technicians focus more on testing, analysis, and supporting process improvements. The roles often overlap, but their main responsibilities and required credentials differ, making each position unique within the industry.

What does a chemical operator do?

A chemical operator is responsible for operating and monitoring equipment in chemical manufacturing processes to ensure safe and efficient production. They handle raw materials, perform quality checks, and follow safety protocols, often working with control systems and wearing protective gear. Certification and knowledge of safety procedures are typically required for this role.

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 strong knowledge of chemical processes, safety procedures, and a high school diploma or equivalent—though many employers prefer technical or vocational training. Familiarity with process control systems (such as DCS or SCADA), monitoring equipment, and relevant safety certifications (like OSHA) is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient operation of chemical plants, prevent accidents, and support consistent product quality.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs that can reach $500,000 annually include executive roles such as CEOs and CFOs, specialized medical professionals like surgeons, and certain senior technology or finance positions. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes ownership stakes or performance-based bonuses.
What are popular job titles related to Chemical Operators jobs in California? For Chemical Operators jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Chemical Operators jobs? Cities in California with the most Chemical Operators job openings:
Chemical Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Operators job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,035 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Chemical Operations Technician, I

Chemical Operations Technician, I

AMPAC Fine Chemicals

Rancho Cordova, CA • On-site

$30.34 - $50.58/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

SKpharmteco is looking for Operations Technicians (Chemical Operators) to join our team at our Rancho Cordova (greater Sacramento), CA location. We are a custom manufacturer of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs, Drug Substances) and registered intermediates for customers in the pharmaceutical industry.

SUMMARY

Performs multiple duties related to the production of chemicals using a series of chemical processes in a batch type or continuous process chemical plant. These duties require careful observation and recording of data during all steps of the process. Little or no supervision required. Must have good technical and interpersonal skills. Some independent decision making will be required. May also be required to perform other duties in support of plant activities not covered in another classification, including team participation.

WORK PERFORMED

May assist in the performance of personnel, insures that personnel follow all departmental and AFC policies and procedures, interacts with other personnel of other disciplines, may assist in training of new hires within probation, conveys and logs status of processes, facilities, and personnel to the Crew Chief. Performs a variety of assignments in order to control process and equipment, both manually and with computers. Weigh, measure, and charge into chemical processing equipment a wide variety of chemicals. Operates all process equipment per operating instructions and procedures.

Makes required adjustments and changes to operating equipment with tools for flanges required to keep processes flowing. Will be required to change small burst discs of a routine nature, remove and clean flanged valves, configure fittings and hoses, tighten bolts and flanges. May assist maintenance crafts as required under the direction of the primary craft to blind and unblind process equipment for confined space entry, disassemble and assemble flanged/threaded fittings to related process equipment for inspection, cleaning or decontamination.

Observes and accurately records all process data from instrumentation systems. Cleans all processing equipment per operating instructions. Diaphragm pumps may be removed but will be reinstalled by maintenance. Wears appropriate safety equipment as required. Performs all necessary inspections and procedures to maintain compliance.

Operates Railcar and Rail Yard equipment and performs associated duties and performs regulatory inspections of incoming and out bound rail tank cars when truck drivers are unavailable. Operates vehicles up to two tons on site in the movement of materials, supplies and personnel in support of the chemical plants.

Duties also include general housekeeping, special cleaning, painting, policing the area and sweeping in support of chemical operations. Within the chemical facilities, moves and stages various equipment, raw materials and other supplies in support of chemical operations.

May perform general custodial duties in the chemical processing areas, buildings and grounds. Performs special cleaning in the finished product processing areas, following detailed cleaning methods and procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS

High school graduate or equivalent with one (1) to four (4) years experience in chemical processing plants as a Chemical Plant Operator or directly related chemical experience commensurate with the work requirements described herein. Must be able to achieve proficiency in operation, adjustment and cleaning of all required chemical processing equipment. Must have good mechanical aptitude and be able to read, understand and follow instructions and procedures to a high degree of accuracy and achievable performance in a chemical-manufacturing environment.

We are a 24/7, 365 chemical manufacturing facility. This is a union position. Candidates must be open to off-shift schedules, weekend and holiday coverage.

Benefits start the first of the month after hire date, including 401k.