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Chemical Operators Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical balance and material mixtures necessary for operation. Complies with safety related SOP in Chemical ...

The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical balance and material mixtures necessary for operation. Complies with safety related SOP in Chemical ...

The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical balance and material mixtures necessary for operation. Complies with safety related SOP in Chemical ...

Chemical Technician

Brawley, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.50/hr

Such as obtaining, handling and analyzing samples; making adjustments to operating equipment ... Chemical Lab Technician Certification, Plant Operator Technology Certificate, or related skills and ...

Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Chemical Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating and monitoring chemical processes, ensuring ...

Job Summary We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Chemical Operator to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for operating and monitoring chemical processes, ensuring ...

Skilled in operating chemical application equipment; forklift experience preferred. * Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety. * Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a ...

Experience operating leak, burst, proof test facilities * Experience leading an hot-fire test ... Experience with chemical propulsion operations in space Why Join Apex? Apex believes in creating a ...

Operator

Richmond, CA · On-site

$42.24 - $52.42/hr

About This Role and You Chemical Operators at our Richmond, California Sulfuric Acid Plant require the mechanical ability to safely perform general plant operator duties. Work includes tank truck and ...

Operator

Richmond, CA · On-site

$52.42/hr

About This Role and You Chemical Operators at our Richmond, California Sulfuric Acid Plant require the mechanical ability to safely perform general plant operator duties. Work includes tank truck and ...

About This Role and You Chemical Operators at our Richmond, California Sulfuric Acid Plant require the mechanical ability to safely perform general plant operator duties. Work includes tank truck and ...

Showing results 21-40

Chemical Operators information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$25

How much do chemical operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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 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.

Are chemical operators in demand?

Chemical operators are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for skilled workers in manufacturing and processing plants. Employment opportunities often require knowledge of safety protocols, equipment operation, and sometimes certifications, with job growth driven by the chemical and pharmaceutical industries.

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 do you do as a chemical operator?

A chemical operator is responsible for operating and monitoring equipment used in manufacturing chemical products, ensuring safety and quality standards are met. They perform routine inspections, adjust processes as needed, and follow safety protocols, often working with control systems and wearing protective gear. Certification and knowledge of chemical handling are typically required for this role.

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:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Chemical Operators jobs?

Cities in California with the most Chemical Operators job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemical Operators job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,035 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Chemical Process Operator

Ardagh Group

Fairfield, CA • On-site

$31.72/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Ardagh Group rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 120 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

PURPOSE OF THE JOB:
  • The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical balance and material mixtures necessary for operation. Complies with safety related SOP in Chemical handling.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES:
  • Operate and control all systems including making adjustments to wastewater solutions, oils, and materials.
  • Understands and complies with position related safety, SOPs, and work instructions especially for Lockout Tagout, wastewater treatment chemical handling, machine guarding, housekeeping, SQF and personal protective equipment.
  • Perform required chemical process tests to maintain prescribed chemical balance or material mixture necessary for operation of equipment.
  • Sample solutions at prescribed intervals to assure proper chemical balance and measurements of waste content.
  • Mix and maintain solutions in the operation for the process washer deionizers, coolant systems, water treatment, and soluble oil filtration systems.
  • Storage of chemicals and compounds.
  • Prepare chemical wash solutions for the washer involving measuring chemicals in liquid or dry form.
  • Prepare batches of soluble oil mixture according to prescribed percentages.
  • Setup, adjust and maintain washer and wastewater equipment including changing filters and cleaning filter screens.
  • Install, maintain, repair, and assist with overhaul on pumps, piping, plumbing, and support equipment.
  • Monitor, maintain and report the Hazardous Waste Program, as required.
  • Unload and store barrel totes and bulk material deliveries, such as oil and chemicals.
  • Deliver materials to "ready for use" locations. Maintain inventory records of supplies used in the process.
  • Examine, test, and measure product from assigned equipment for quality specifications using appropriate gauges and instruments. Record all relevant information including the date.
  • Perform preventative maintenance inspections of assigned equipment, report findings, and take appropriate corrective action.
  • Write and perform maintenance work orders, as required.
  • Notify supervisor of recurring equipment malfunctions.
  • Notify supervisor of poor-quality material or supplies.
  • Operate equipment and assist production, as directed.
  • Perform other duties, as assigned

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:
  • Familiar with personal protective equipment.
  • Mechanically inclined and familiar with hand tools.
  • Familiar with proper handling of chemical solvents.
  • Familiar with material safety data sheets.
  • Experience in manufacturing preferred.
  • Able to navigate computer-based programs.
  • High School diploma or equivalent (GED) required.

KEY JOB COMPETENCIES/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • Able to stand for a long duration of time in excess of 8 hours a day.
  • Able to bend over and rotate body repeatedly.
  • Able to lift 40 pounds overhead.
  • Able to push/pull 800 lb. drums using hand truck.
  • Able to withstand heat, cold, vibrations, odors/fumes and loud noise.
  • Able to climb stairs frequently.

#IND1
Ardagh Metal Packaging is a leading global supplier of sustainable, infinitely recyclable metal beverage cans to brand owners. A subsidiary of sustainable packaging business Ardagh Group and a leading industry metal packaging company, Ardagh Metal Packaging employs more than 6,300 people across Europe, North America and Brazil, with sales of approximately $4.7 billion.
Ardagh Metal Packaging believes that the success of our business depends on the success of our people. We strive to create working environments where our employees feel valued and can work to their full potential. We offer exciting and rewarding opportunities for talented and creative people. If you have ambition and want to make an impact with your career, come and join our team - you'll enjoy the journey!
Ardagh Metal Packaging - North America has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breast feeding, and related conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, race, creed, religion (including religious dress and grooming), color, national origin, ancestry (including association, affiliation, or participation with persons or activities related to national origin, English-proficiency or accent, or immigration status), physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital or domestic partner status, age, veteran or military status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law. Discrimination against any employee or applicant based on any of these factors is prohibited.
Upon hire, the starting hourly base for this role is $31.72 per hour. The company also offer a Success Share Bonus that is dependent on the plant meeting certain metrics and targets. Please note that the wage provided is a good faith estimate and is only applicable for California residents. The wage could be different for applicants who do not reside in California.
Benefits Offered:
  • Medical, prescription, dental and vision plans
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Paid holidays and vacation
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability (STD/LTD)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Apprenticeship programs
  • Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee Resource Groups

Please note the compensation and benefits information above is accurate as of the date of this posting. Ardagh reserves the right to modify this information at any time in accordance with applicable law.

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