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Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level Jobs in Michigan

Chemical Plant Operator Pay: Starting at $26/hour, with 4% Potential Bonus Schedule: 12-hour shifts (3 days on, 3 days off) from 6am to 6pm or 6pm to 6am (either day or night shift available) . S ...

Chemical Plant Operator Pay: Starting at $26/hour, with 4% Potential Bonus Schedule: 12-hour shifts (3 days on, 3 days off) from 6am to 6pm or 6pm to 6am (either day or night shift available) . S ...

Chemical Plant Operator Pay: Starting at $26/hour, with 4% Potential Bonus Schedule: 12-hour shifts (3 days on, 3 days off) from 6am to 6pm or 6pm to 6am (either day or night shift available) . S ...

Plant Operator B

Saginaw, MI · On-site

$43K - $59K/yr

Adjust pumps and chemical feeds based on flow and treatment demands. Work at Remote Facilities as ... WAGE SCALE Classification E Entry level, must meet all minimum qualifications (Education ...

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Monitoring of all chemical feed systems. Mixing and dilution of lab chemicals. Extensive jar ... Trains Plant Operators as requested. 15. Uses computer terminal to process work request/work orders ...

Prepares chemical solutions and services automatic samplers. Monitors process chemical supplies and recommends reorder. * Performs routine lab tests. Performs routine instrument calibration for ...

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Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level information

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$4

$19

$27

How much do chemical plant operator entry level jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical plant operator entry level in Michigan is $19.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry-level chemical plant operator do?

A Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level is responsible for monitoring and controlling the equipment and processes used to manufacture chemicals in a plant setting. They assist with starting and stopping equipment, checking gauges, collecting samples, and reporting any irregularities to senior operators or supervisors. This role typically involves following strict safety protocols and standard operating procedures to ensure smooth and safe plant operations. Entry-level operators often receive on-the-job training and work under the supervision of experienced staff while learning the basics of chemical processing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry-level chemical plant operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level, you need a basic understanding of chemistry, safety protocols, and process operations, often supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with process control systems, safety monitoring equipment, and standard operating procedures is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient plant operations and minimizing the risk of accidents or production errors.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level chemical plant operators, and how can they be overcome?

Entry-level Chemical Plant Operators often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced shift work, learning to operate complex machinery safely, and understanding detailed safety protocols. To overcome these challenges, new operators should proactively seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate actively in hands-on training, and familiarize themselves with the plant's standard operating procedures. Maintaining strong communication with team members and supervisors is also essential for troubleshooting issues and ensuring a safe work environment.

What is the difference between Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level vs Chemical Process Technician?

AspectChemical Plant Operator Entry LevelChemical Process Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, chemical plants, manufacturing facilitiesSimilar environments, often working alongside plant operators
Job DutiesOperate and monitor equipment, follow safety procedures, perform basic maintenanceAssist in process control, troubleshoot equipment, support production processes

Both roles involve working in chemical manufacturing environments with similar credentials and work settings. The main difference is that Chemical Plant Operators focus on operating and monitoring equipment, while Chemical Process Technicians assist with process control and troubleshooting. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers choose the right career path in the chemical industry.

How much does an entry-level chemical plant operator make?

Entry-level chemical plant operators in Texas typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific facility. Starting salaries may also include shift differentials and benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What job categories do people searching Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level job openings in Michigan as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,758 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Chemical Plant Operator Job

Arkema

Grand Rapids, MI

$26/hr

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job Title:      Chemical Plant Operator 

Pay: Starting at $26/hour, with 4% Potential Bonus

Schedule: 12-hour shifts (3 days on, 3 days off) from 6am to 6pm or 6pm to 6am (either day or night shift available) .

SITUATION IN ORGANIZATION:

Position reports directly to the Grand Rapids Production Manger.

JOB DIMENSIONS

This job is responsible for the manufacturing, packaging, and distribution of specialty chemical resins. Batch manufacturing includes charging raw materials, processing batches, monitoring and recording key process parameters, and troubleshooting. Other Technician responsibilities include: loading, unloading, cleaning equipment, packaging product, maintaining a safe and orderly work area, assisting other production areas as needed, and overall plant Housekeeping.

KEY ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Production Operations-65%

  •  
  • Kettle responsibilities include: loading reactors with raw materials, monitoring and troubleshooting batch process parameters, performing in process and final product Quality testing.
  • Follow operating procedures for job tasks
  • Operate forklift to move materials around the plant
  • Performs tasks assigned to operations (raw material charges, equipment preparation, process samples, etc).

Daily communications-10%

  • Meetings-Safety, Shift Change, Shift planning
  • Coordinate daily activities with and report any issues to the Production Team Lead
  • Maintain proper housekeeping practices in the production area.
  • Routine use of a computer to communicate via e-mail, complete online training and other tasks as assigned. 
  • Support other Production Team members as needed, if properly trained for the task

Health Environmental Safety Quality (HSEQ) -15%

  • Complete required Training assignments on-time: computer based, instructor led, and on the job
  • Follow HES and Operating Discipline procedures and practices to ensure safe and efficient operation of assigned plant areas.
  • Proper handling/disposal of hazardous waste materials
  • Follows safety procedures to ensure personal safety and the safety of others.
  • As required, participate in Root Cause Investigations.
    • Understand and execute Emergency Response procedures to mitigate unplanned events in the process.
    • Participate in HSEQ activities provided by site management.
  • Operates and field checks process equipment. Monitors process conditions, equipment and control        systems.

Continuous Improvement-10%

  • Performs troubleshooting of process equipment and systems to resolve process deviations and problems.
  • Uses plant knowledge and skills to make improvements in plant performance.
  • Helps troubleshoot plant and customer problems.
  • Contributes to value creation by continuous improvement of procedures, the operations work processes and related tools and performance metrics.
  • All other duties as assigned.

CONTEXT AND ENVIRONMENT

(INCLUDE % TRAVEL, IF APPLICABLE; THREE HES REFERENCES BELOW ARE REQUIRED ON ALL DESCRIPTIONS; SITE MAY HAVE ADDITIONAL HES REFERENCES; FOR PHYSICAL DEMANDS REFER TO THE JOB DEMAND FORM FOR THIS ROLE)

  • This position will be based in Grand Rapids, MI.
  • Comply with the HSEQ Policy.
  • Comply with Regulations, Legal and Internal Requirements of Arkema/CS.
  • Comply with the rules of the specific location to which one is assigned as well as the rules set by the business unit (BU) and Arkema Inc.
  • Comply with all standard procedures and work instructions
  • Report Near Misses to the direct supervisor; report Incidents or Accidents to the direct supervisor.  Identify and communicate potential gains or possible improvements to the management system.
  • Supports the site HES policy and complies with all regulatory and internal requirements
  • Supports and promotes the reporting of all health, safety, environmental, near-miss, accident or injury incident

REQUIRED EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS /WORK EXPERIENCE  

  • Must have a high school diploma/GED
  • Experience in a chemical manufacturing environment preferred
  • Must be a safety-conscious, highly motivated team player who is able to work independently
  • Must be able to climb ladders, work outside in all weather conditions, lift up to 50lbs and wear PPE including full face air purifying respirator
  • Must be willing to work overtime as needed

DEMONSTRATED COMPETENCIES

  • Effectively communicate in a team environment
  • Willingness to learn
  • Ability to follow and improve procedures
  • Hazard recognition/awareness
  • Assist to resolve problems