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Chemical Process Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RC Chemical Operator Permanent Pay Range Min. $22.00 Pay Range Max. $29.00 Creating foldable ... To operate chemical processes and equipment correctly, while meeting production goals and ...

... process are in working order. • Assist with troubleshooting abnormal conditions and notify ... and chemical or require personal protective equipment. • Ability to use Personal Protective ...

... process are in working order. • Assist with troubleshooting abnormal conditions and notify ... and chemical or require personal protective equipment. • Ability to use Personal Protective ...

Description AdvancedPCB is seeking a reliable, motivated Wet Process Operator (Sander) who is looking for an exciting and rewarding opportunity. The ideal candidate must be able to work in a fast ...

New

AdvancedPCB is seeking a reliable, motivated Wet Process Operator (Sander) who is looking for an exciting and rewarding opportunity. The ideal candidate must be able to work in a fast-paced ...

New

Duties & ResponsibilitiesExecute plating and chemical process operations, including copper plating ... stable operating conditionsInspect products and process stages to verify compliance with ...

Execute plating and chemical process operations, including copper plating, acid/tin plating ... stable operating conditions * Inspect products and process stages to verify compliance with ...

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Chemical Process Operator information

See California salary details

$15

$22

$35

How much do chemical process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical 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.

How hard is it to be a chemical process operator?

Being a chemical process operator requires technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols. The job often involves working in industrial environments with complex equipment, and some positions may require certifications or training. While it can be physically demanding and involve shift work, it is generally accessible with proper training and education.

Are chemical process operators in demand?

Chemical process operators are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for skilled workers in manufacturing and chemical plants. Employment opportunities often require knowledge of safety protocols, process control, and certifications such as OSHA training, with job growth driven by the chemical and energy industries.

What are some common challenges chemical process operators face during shift work, and how can they manage them?

Chemical Process Operators often work in rotating shifts, which can disrupt sleep patterns and affect work-life balance. Managing fatigue, maintaining focus during long hours, and adapting to changing schedules are common challenges. To address these, operators are encouraged to establish consistent sleep routines, prioritize effective handover communication between shifts, and participate in workplace wellness programs when available. Teamwork and clear protocols also help reduce errors and ensure safety during transitions.

What is the difference between Chemical Process Operator vs Chemical Technician?

AspectChemical Process OperatorChemical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles require certifications in safety or process operationsHigh school diploma; often an associate degree in chemistry or related field
Work EnvironmentFactories, chemical plants, manufacturing facilitiesLaboratories, testing facilities, manufacturing settings
Job FocusOperating and monitoring chemical processes, ensuring safety and efficiencyTesting, analyzing, and assisting in process development or quality control
Industry UsageCommonly employed in chemical manufacturing, oil refining, pharmaceuticals

While both roles work within chemical industries, Chemical Process Operators focus on running and maintaining chemical processes, ensuring safety and efficiency. Chemical Technicians support these processes through testing and analysis, often working more in laboratory settings. Both roles require safety training and relevant certifications, but their daily tasks and work environments differ.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chemical process operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Process Operator, you need a solid understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols, and at least a high school diploma or relevant technical certification. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), process control software, and equipment such as pumps and reactors is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork skills help operators respond effectively to process changes and emergencies. These competencies are vital for maintaining safe, efficient plant operations and ensuring product quality.

What does a chemical process operator do?

A Chemical Process Operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling equipment and processes used in the production of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or other materials. They ensure that production runs efficiently, safely, and within quality standards by adjusting controls, conducting tests, and troubleshooting issues. Operators often work in shifts and must follow strict safety protocols to handle hazardous materials. Their role is essential in maintaining continuous production and preventing accidents in industrial settings.

How much do chemical process operators make?

Chemical process operators in Texas typically earn an average annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific industry. They often work in manufacturing plants, operating and monitoring chemical processing equipment, and may require safety training and knowledge of process control systems.

What is a chemical process operator?

As a chemical process operator, you monitor and maintain equipment, making sure everything is running efficiently so that you meet quality and time commitments for each project. You mix, process, and package all chemicals within the production area. Your responsibilities also include completing operations like reactions, filtrations, distillations, and any other chemical process needed based on manufacturing and standard operating procedures (SOPs). You must also follow batch sheet instructions to produce the product and meet Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) guidelines. Other duties include setting up equipment, cleaning and verifying vessels, and recording your observations to assess any issues that arise later.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Chemical Process Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,082 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Senior Associate, Manufacturing Engineer (Chemical Processing)

L3Harris Technologies

Canoga Park, CA

$73K - $136K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Senior Associate, Manufacturing Engineering (Chemical Processing)

Job Code: 41857

Job Location: Canoga Park, CA

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

We are seeking aChemical Processing Manufacturing Engineerto join our facility inCanoga Park, CA(Los Angeles area). Utilizing professional judgment and use/application of basic principle, theories, and concepts, the Chemical Processing Manufacturing Engineer will be responsible for understanding and providing oversight of the Pre-Clean, Fine Clean, and Plating operations.

Essential Functions:

  • Ensure that the proper tank chemistry is maintained and the tanks are operating within specification to properly clean and plate hardware.
  • Maintain and create Electronic Process Instructions (EPI) for mechanics to follow who will process hardware to specification requirements.
  • Daily surveillance of the chemical processes via borescope inspection, observation/oversight and auditing of activities.
  • Implement continuous process improvements as needed to improve efficiency or support new product needs.
  • Develops detailed process planning (EPI) for fabrication and inspection in compliance to contractual requirements. Applies engineering and quality procedures to support hardware and/or software requirements to assure that delivered products and/or services conform to contractual and company requirements. Develops fabrication and verification processes that ensure quality requirements are met at a minimum cost and minimum time to product.
  • Keeps accurate records for the Chemical Processing department. Maintains the chemistry in Pre-Clean, Fine Clean, and Plating tanks. Perform weekly sampling of tank solutions and submit samples to the lab for testing. Maintains accurate air quality documentation as required by company and state requirements.
  • Provides shop floor fabrication and verification support. Provides directions and training to technicians and inspectors to define pertinent processes.
  • Initiates cause and corrective action investigations in support of programs. Investigates problems which arise in the shops during the fabrication assembly or test of products and recommends solutions.
  • Works concurrently with design engineering and conducts reviews to ensure producibility of hardware. Works with Integrated Product Team members to develop cost estimates and program schedules.
  • Implement statistical process control techniques to manage Clean and Plating tank chemistry, identify problems early and develop process improvements.
  • Assists in developing and implementing facility/equipment plans and tooling fabrication.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related manufacturing engineering experience. Graduate Degree or equivalent with 0 to 2 years of prior related manufacturing engineering experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 6 years of prior related manufacturing engineering experience.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Knowledge of Clean Processing and/or Electroplating
  • Capable of creating/modifying electronic process instructions (EPI)
  • A good working knowledge of process specifications and quality requirements
  • Ability to work independently and in a team environment
  • Excellent problem solving and communication skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
  • Experience of electronic systems used internally (Delmia, Windchill, ADMS, etc.)

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in the State of California is $73,000 - $136,000. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

#LI-AT4

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time