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Chemical Operators Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kodak

Chemical Operator

Rochester, NY

$20 - $24/hr

Role Overview Kodak is looking for Chemical Operators to work in our Specialty Chemical Inks and Dispersions Division (SCID) These operators will manage and maintain a product flow of various ...

Kodak

Chemical Operator

Rochester, NY

$20 - $24/hr

Role Overview Kodak is looking for Chemical Operators to work in our Specialty Chemical Division (SCID) These operators will manage and maintain a product flow of various chemicals through the ...

Aerotek

Chemical Operator

West Memphis, AR · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Aerotek is hiring Chemical Operators for a company located in West Memphis, AR. These positions are direct hire opportunities paying $22-$28/hr depending on experience (with room to grow). Must be ...

Kodak

Chemical Operator

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Role Overview Kodak is looking for Chemical Operators to work in our Specialty Chemical Division (SCID) These operators will manage and maintain a product flow of various chemicals through the ...

DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

Chemical Operator MBR

Edina, MN · On-site

$20 - $22.75/hr

Chemical Operators will be involved in different rotations on the production lines. Operators rotate roles (described below) based on business, shift and ergonomics needs. Besides the primary ...

Express Employment Professionals

Be Seen First

Production Operator - Chemical Operator

Fort Mill, SC · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Cross-training available across processes * Long-term roles for dependable operators who ... Prior chemical manufacturing experience is a plus Requirements Reactor Operator * Ability to read ...

Kodak

Chemical Operator

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Role Overview Kodak is looking for Chemical Operators to work in our Specialty Chemical Division (SCID) These operators will manage and maintain a product flow of various chemicals through the ...

Dupont

Chemical Operator MBR

Edina, MN

$20 - $22.75/hr

Chemical Operators will be involved in different rotations on the production lines. Operators rotate roles (described below) based on business, shift and ergonomics needs. Besides the primary ...

Kodak

Chemical Operator

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Role Overview Kodak is looking for Chemical Operators to work in our Specialty Chemical Division (SCID) These operators will manage and maintain a product flow of various chemicals through the ...

Kodak

Chemical Operator

Rochester, NY · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Role Overview Kodak is looking for Chemical Operators to work in our Specialty Chemical Division (SCID) These operators will manage and maintain a product flow of various chemicals through the ...

Kodak

Senior Chemical Operator

Rochester, NY

$24 - $28/hr

These operators will manage and maintain a product flow of various chemicals through the chemical processing equipment and maximize output, product quality and minimize waste. Specialized Skills Job ...

Ineos Pigments USA

Chemical Operator-Temporary

Ashtabula, OH · On-site

$17.50 - $20/hr

... is a plus A Chemical Operators Certificate or a recognized trade qualification is a plus Schedule/Hours This is a 12-hour day and night rotating shift position. Our Ashtabula, Ohio Complex ...

Arxada

Chemical Operator

Rochester, NY · On-site

$26 - $27/hr

Arxada US is growing and hiring Chemical Operators at their plant in Rochester, NY, USA The Chemical Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient operation of chemical manufacturing processes.

Arxada

Chemical Operator

Rochester, NY · On-site

$26 - $27/hr

Arxada US is growing and hiring Chemical Operators at their plant in Rochester, NY, USA The Chemical Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient operation of chemical manufacturing processes.

advansix

Chemical Operator - Hopewell

Chesterfield, VA · On-site

$26.14/hr

The Chemical Operators work on a rotating shift team, focusing on field and control room chemical unit operations for safely running process systems and associated equipment during their shift.

Express Employment Professionals

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Chemical Operator

Rock Hill, SC · On-site

$20/hr

Chemical Operator Pay Rates: $20.00/hr Work Schedule: Chemical Operator 2nd Shift: Monday - Friday 3:00pm - 11:00pm Location: Rock Hill, SC Company Overview: Chemical Operator This Chemical ...

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How much do chemical operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical operators in the United States is $20.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $21.15 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.
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What cities are hiring for Chemical Operators jobs? Cities with the most Chemical Operators job openings:
What states have the most Chemical Operators jobs? States with the most job openings for Chemical Operators jobs include:
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Chemical Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Operators job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,592 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Chemical Operator 2nd Shift [3pm-11:30pm]

Chemical Operator 2nd Shift [3pm-11:30pm]

Michelman

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

General Summary
Chemical Operators at Michelman are responsible for safely processing specialty chemical products using a range of equipment including vessels, kettles, mixers, pumps, extruders, and utilities. They follow standard operating procedures (SOP) to prepare materials, load and unload batches, perform in-process testing, and record data in real time. Operators maintain area cleanliness, wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE), follow hazard labeling and waste disposal protocols, and ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards.
In this role, Chemical Operators are expected to ask questions, follow procedures, and escalate abnormalities to protect product quality and personal health safety and our environment. They participate actively in toolbox talks, audits, and tier meetings, and use digital tools to access work instructions and submit maintenance requests. Operators contribute to continuous improvement efforts by offering ideas, reducing waste, and participating in root cause analysis. They are key members of the production team who support a smooth shift-to-shift handoff and maintain high standards of accuracy, ownership, and reliability.
Chemical Operators work independently in wastewater treatment, packaging, extrusion operation, or material handling.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Ensure readiness of utilities for unit operation (e.g., heat exchanger, hot-water-on-demand).
  • Follow SOPs to safely operate equipment including reactors, kettles, mixers, pumps, filtration, forklifts, and utilities.
  • Load, unload, and package materials per instructions, completing all documentation.
  • Monitor and interpret process parameters, record data in real time, and escalate abnormal conditions or trends.
  • Operate process systems (e.g., extruders, packaging lines, wastewater treatment, boiler) in compliance with safety, quality, and efficiency standards.
  • Participate in shift handoffs and daily tier meetings to support production continuity.
  • Perform equipment calibrations in accordance with gauge standards.
  • Record inventory transactions accurately in ERP.
  • Use checklists to perform equipment changeovers, line clearances, and task verifications.
  • Use checklists to prepare and perform equipment cleaning and/or sanitization, changeovers, line clearances, and task verifications.
  • Verify raw material identity, lot codes, and quantities before staging for production.
General Responsibilities
  • Access digital tools for just-in-time learning and job guidance.
  • Ask clarifying questions to ensure task understanding and reduce operational risk.
  • Communicate effectively with team leaders, support staff, and managers to address safety, quality, and production concerns.
  • Complete required training, certifications, and assessments on time.
  • Follow all EHS and Quality policies to maintain a safe and compliant workplace.
  • Keep work areas clean and organized to meet housekeeping and GMP standards.
  • Provide peers with constructive feedback to improve safety, quality, and efficiency.
Environmental, Health, & Safety Responsibilities
  • Actively engage in safety meetings and toolbox talks.
  • Maintain situational awareness of all work occurring within the assigned area. Ensure that concurrent activities do not create safety risks or operational conflicts.
  • Participate in shift-level near-miss and incident reviews.
  • Review and follow hazard labels and chemical handling procedures.
  • Segregate and dispose of waste materials per environmental guidelines.
  • Stop work when undue health, safety, or environmental risks are present. Step back and get help before proceeding.
  • Support safe work execution in coordination with Maintenance, Engineering, Project Teams, and peers.
  • Wear required PPE in accordance with procedures and safety data sheets (SDSs).
Quality Responsibilities
  • Perform quality control tests and adjust batches to meet specifications.
  • Collaborate with the quality team to resolve product or customer issues.
  • Review batch records and follow deviation and escalation procedures.
  • Support problem-solving efforts to prevent or correct quality defects.
  • Select appropriate scale to confirm material weights before addition.
Continuous Improvement Responsibilities
  • Identify and report ways to reduce scrap, waste, or energy use.
  • Participate in continuous improvement activities.
  • Participate in cycle counts to improve inventory accuracy.
  • Share improvement ideas and recommend updates to SOPs or work instructions.
  • Support root cause investigations (e.g., 5 Whys, Fishbone) as a subject matter expert.
Autonomous Maintenance Responsibilities
  • Identify and troubleshoot minor mechanical or instrumentation issues before escalation.
  • Perform preventive maintenance tasks according to autonomous maintenance (AM) guidelines.
  • Submit maintenance work requests.
  • Prepare equipment for maintenance and/or projects.
  • Notify affected personnel of changes in equipment status or area accessibility due to ongoing work or preparation activities.
Critical Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Works effectively and respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and education levels, collaborating to solve problems and achieve shared goals.
  • Proactively identifies and acts on opportunities to improve safety, quality, efficiency, and personal performance, while following all established procedures and regulatory requirements.
  • Prioritizes and manages multiple operational tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, making sound, time-sensitive decisions that maintain safety, compliance, and product quality.
  • Reads and interprets safety data sheets (SDS), standard operating procedures, and production schedules to execute tasks accurately.
  • Understands how daily activities and decisions affect production costs, yield, and overall business results, and uses this awareness to drive process efficiency and resource stewardship.
  • Recognizes and mitigates chemical, mechanical, and environmental hazards, escalating concerns promptly.
  • Communicates clearly in verbal and written form for shift handovers, incident reporting, and process documentation.
  • Applies basic troubleshooting methods to identify and correct process or equipment deviations, ensuring minimal disruption to operations.
Education and Experience
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • 0 - 3 years of manufacturing, production, or warehouse experience preferred.
  • Experience in chemical processing is a plus, but not required.
  • Entry-level applicants with strong mechanical aptitude and commitment to safety are encouraged to apply.
  • Prior experience in operating production equipment, forklifts, and following SOP is desirable.
Work Hours
Michelman's standard work hours for this role are 2nd shift [3pm-11:30pm].
Note: The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to the job. They are not construed to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel. Furthermore, they do not establish a contract for employment and are subject to change at the discretion of the employer.
About Michelman
Motivated by unwavering values, and ingrained with a passion for innovation, Michelman is a global developer and manufacturer of specialized sustainable chemistry used in industrial and agricultural coatings, digital printing, consumer packaging, and advanced composites for automotive and aerospace. From helping grow food and keep it fresh, to making vehicles lighter and more fuel efficient, to shielding our homes from the elements, Michelman's environmentally conscious solutions protect and enhance the materials that shape our world.
Michelman is proud of the values-focused work environment that we have crafted. We pride ourselves in our focus on our values of integrity, respect, and success. With our dedication to your technical and professional growth in addition to our rigorous onboarding experience, we guarantee that you will find yourself challenged in new ways. We offer an excellent salary, incentive, and benefits package in a dynamic, empowered team environment.
No phone calls, please. Michelman does not hire individuals who use tobacco products. All candidates will receive a drug test prior to beginning employment which will include a test for tobacco products.
For more information about Michelman, please visit https://www.michelman.com/.
It is Michelman, Inc. policy to seek and employ qualified persons in all jobs in a manner which will ensure equal employment opportunity as well as administer personnel actions in a manner as to not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation or disability. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Michelman is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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