ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ecolab

Chemical Operator II

Ellwood City, PA · On-site

$18.50 - $21.25/hr

As a Chemical Plant Operator II,you'llhelp deliver products that support clean water, safe food, and healthy environments around the world.You'llbe responsible foroperatingand controlling chemical ...

CarbonFree

Chemical Plant Loader

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Chemical Plant Loader Location: SkyMine Plant - 11503 Bulverde Rd. San Antonio, TX 78217 CarbonFree is looking for a Chemical Plant Loader to support our company as it grows. This role will report ...

LED FastStart

Chemical Plant Loader

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

Chemical Loading Operator Chemical Plant Loader PSC Group is hiring a Chemical Loading Operator to join our team! This full-time role offers hands-on training, safety-focused work, and long-term ...

LED FastStart

Chemical Plant Loader

Convent, LA · On-site

Chemical Loading Operator Chemical Plant Loader PSC Group is hiring a Chemical Loading Operator to join our team! This full-time role offers hands-on training, safety-focused work, and long-term ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsChemical Plant Operator Entry Level Jobs

Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level information

See salary details

$5

$21

$31

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

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical plant operator entry level in the United States is $21.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What Does an Entry-Level Chemical Plant Operator Do?

As an entry-level chemical plant operator, your job is to help manage the daily operations of a chemical plant. This frequently includes using large equipment like forklifts to move raw or processed materials, helping monitor the production and quality of the chemicals, and helping to coordinate the maintenance of the plant. This job requires some technical training, though employers do not always expect you to have matching experience. Many chemical plants are unique, so they provide training in their own process. Entry-level chemical plant operators frequently work indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and use personal protective equipment when working close to the chemicals in the plant.

What does a Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level, 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.
More about Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level jobs
What cities are hiring for Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level jobs? Cities with the most Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level job openings:
What states have the most Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level jobs? States with the most job openings for Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level jobs include:
Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Plant Operator Entry Level job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 25% Full Time, 62% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,615 per year, or $21.9 per hour.
Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator

Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator

Olin Corporation

Wilmington, MA • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Other

Posted 24 days ago

Olin Corporation rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 91 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Title: Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator
Location: Wilmington, MA

Salary: $70,700 - $90,500

Focus: The Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining the site environmental treatment systems as required to comply with the applicable regulatory requirements and Olin policy. 
 

Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator Essential Functions:

  • Follow all safety rules and procedures as required by Olin and government regulations. Maintain valid Treatment Plant Operator's license at appropriate level.
  • Operate and maintain remediation systems in compliance with all applicable regulatory requirement, decision documents, and Olin policy.
  • Collect samples, perform chemical analysis, and record data as needed. Maintain site treatment systems to ensure proper and safe operation.
  • Operate site equipment such as fork-lift trucks, tractor, mowers, and snow removal equipment.
  • Maintain all appropriate training requirements and renew on time as appropriate.
     

Groundwater Treatment Plant Operator Position Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • Minimum 3 years of operating and maintenance experience in a chemical plant or wastewater treatment facility.

  • Familiarity with Ground Water Sampling Techniques preferred. 

  • Must have be able to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Grade II Industrial Waste Water Treatment License. Higher level license preferred.

  • Must be able to complete applicable Olin required training. These will include, at a minimum, the following:

    • OSHA 40-Hour and 8-Hour Refresher

    • DOT - Shipping and Hazardous Waste

    • Massachusetts Waste Water License - Minimum of Grade II

  • Experience in operating a forklift preferred.

  • Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with peers, management, and all external stakeholders within areas of responsibility.

  • Demonstrated self starter who can work with minimal supervision.

  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs infrequently.


An All-In Investment in Your Future 
As a global leader in both chemical manufacturing and ammunition, Olin empowers over 8,000 individuals to make an impact both at work and in our surrounding communities. View a snapshot of our comprehensive benefits package.

*Olin does not provide any form of sponsorship.  We will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States.  Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J or TN or who need sponsorship now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

Olin is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

What Olin Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply