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Chemical Plant Process Operator Jobs in California

Ardagh Group

Chemical Process Operator

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$31.72/hr

The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical ... The company also offer a Success Share Bonus that is dependent on the plant meeting certain metrics ...

ARDAGH GROUP

Chemical Process Operator

Fairfield, CA

$31.72/hr

The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical ... The company also offer a Success Share Bonus that is dependent on the plant meeting certain metrics ...

ARDAGH GROUP

Chemical Process Operator

Fairfield, CA · On-site

$31.72/hr

The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical ... The company also offer a Success Share Bonus that is dependent on the plant meeting certain metrics ...

MP Materials Corp.

Process Operator

Mountain Pass, CA · On-site

$28.21 - $37.90/hr

A Process Operator controls equipment and systems that ensure the smooth, safe, and productive ... Prior experience in an industrial plant, chemical process, or water treatment facility. * Prior ...

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 ... Oilfield, chemical, plant, or yard experience preferred Work Environment: * Outdoor work in varying ...

Chemtrade

Chemical Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$34.97/hr

Position: Chemical Operator Reports to: Plant Manager Shift: Monday to Friday - 8 hours/day ... Document plant processes and record production data. * Operation of tank truck and railcar vessel ...

Chemtrade

Chemical Operator

Pittsburg, CA

$34.97/hr

Position: Chemical Operator Reports to: Plant Manager Shift: Monday to Friday - 8 hours/day ... Document plant processes and record production data. * Operation of tank truck and railcar vessel ...

Chemtrade

Chemical Operator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$34.97/hr

Position: Chemical Operator Reports to: Plant Manager Shift: Monday to Friday - 8 hours/day ... Document plant processes and record production data. * Operation of tank truck and railcar vessel ...

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All JobsChemical Plant Process Operator JobsChemical Plant Process Operator Jobs in California

Chemical Plant Process Operator information

See California salary details

$15

$22

$35

How much do chemical plant process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical plant process operator in California is $22.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chemical plant process operator?

A Chemical Plant Process Operator monitors and controls equipment used in chemical manufacturing to ensure safe and efficient production. They oversee processes such as mixing, heating, cooling, and distillation while following strict safety and environmental regulations. Operators also conduct routine maintenance, troubleshoot issues, and take quality control samples. Their role is critical in maintaining production schedules and preventing hazardous incidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the chemical plant process operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Plant Process Operator, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of chemical processes, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring additional technical training or certifications. Operators commonly use control panels, process monitoring systems (such as DCS/SCADA), and may need OSHA or other safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient plant operations and help minimize risks to personnel and the environment.

What are some common challenges chemical plant process operators face on the job?

Chemical Plant Process Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, maintaining product quality while adhering to strict safety protocols, and responding quickly to process upsets or emergencies. The work environment can be physically demanding and may involve shift work, including nights and weekends. Effective collaboration with maintenance teams, engineers, and supervisors is frequently required to ensure smooth and safe plant operations. Adapting to evolving safety regulations and continuous process improvements also requires ongoing learning and attention to detail.

How hard is it to be a chemical plant process operator?

Becoming a chemical plant process operator requires understanding complex processes, operating and monitoring equipment, and following safety protocols. The job often involves shift work, technical skills, and sometimes certification or training programs, but it is generally accessible with the right technical aptitude and attention to detail.

Where do chemical plant process operators make the most money?

Chemical plant process operators tend to earn higher wages in regions with a strong industrial base, such as areas with large chemical manufacturing facilities or refineries. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in hazardous environments can also influence salary levels, with some locations offering premium pay for overtime or shift work.

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Plant Process Operator jobs in California?

For Chemical Plant Process Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chemical Plant Process Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Plant Process Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Chemical Plant Process Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Chemical Plant Process Operator job openings:

Chemical Plant Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Plant Process Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,082 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Chemical Plant Mechanic

Rancho Cordova, CA • On-site

AMPAC Fine Chemicals
Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about AMPAC Fine Chemicalsexternal

$48.19 - $60.07/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

 

SK pharmteco is seeking a Chemical Plant Mechanic to join our team at our Rancho Cordova, CA (greater Sacramento location). This position does not require any travel off of our property.

SUMMARY

Maintains, repairs, assembles and installs structures, metal buildings and chemical processing equipment and other items. Maintains, repairs and installs plant plumbing and utility piping on all plant facilities. Provides maintenance and construction support for all types of mechanical systems in fine chemical and pharmaceutical production plants, pilot plants and laboratories and their supporting utilities.

WORK PERFORMED

Maintains, repairs, assembles and installs structures, metal buildings and other chemical plant equipment, items such as exhaust blowers and fume hoods (above 16 gauge), cranes, hoists, various types of pumps, compressors, processing tanks, vacuum systems, chemical and sewage processing equipment, evaporative coolers, agitators, reactors, gear boxes, exchangers, shop equipment, personnel moving equipment and material moving equipment.

Maintains, repairs and installs chemical plant plumbing and utility piping on chemical plant facilities. Works in conjunction with instrumentation personnel on pressure relief valves. Repairs any and all leaks detected by the LDAR inspector.

Maintains heating and ventilating systems and air-filtering devices (to include changing dust collector filters) when such systems and devices, are not associated with air conditioning and refrigeration systems.

Maintains, repairs and operates stationary low and high-pressure boilers and related equipment used to generate steam for turbines, heating and other steam powered equipment. Will also be required to perform boiler surveillance as well as performing shop maintenance and clean up.

Maintains a clean work environment in the plant, shop, grounds, etc., as well as any areas worked in.

Work assignments include welding, carpentry, painting, metal work and fabrication, insulation, cement work and any other mechanical work as required. May assist other crafts as required under direction of the primary craft.

Uses necessary hand, power and shop tools, welding equipment, measuring instruments, overhead cranes, man lifts, platform lifts, forklifts, winches and related equipment as required to perform the work described herein. May also operate special mechanical equipment such as backhoes, mobile cranes and other heavy equipment if qualified

QUALIFICATIONS

High school graduate or equivalent and preferably trade or vocational school training. Four (4) years industrial mechanical maintenance experience. Good working knowledge of shop mathematics and equipment drawings. Must have good mechanical aptitude and be able to read, understand and follow written or verbal instructions or procedures. Must also be able to maintain a high level of performance and teamwork to keep the chemical plant facility up to maximum production levels.

We are a 24/7, 365 chemical manufacturing facility. This is a union position. Candidates must be open to any shift, weekends and holidays. 

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



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