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Chemical Process Operator Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Union Operator

New Castle, DE · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Partner with Operations to safely manage the site maintenance process. Problems are usually complex ... thrive. 3+ years chemical operator experience High school graduate • Basic math skills ...

Machine Operator

Middletown, DE · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Perform and document process line conditions. * Monitor and stock operating supplies as needed or ... May include mechanical, electrical, chemical, explosive and radiation hazards. Employees are ...

Machine Operator

Middletown, DE · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Perform and document process line conditions. * Monitor and stock operating supplies as needed or ... May include mechanical, electrical, chemical, explosive and radiation hazards. Employees are ...

Showing results 41-60

Chemical Process Operator information

See Delaware salary details

$15

$22

$35

How much do chemical process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical process operator in Delaware is $22.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $23.08 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 Delaware?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Chemical Process Operator job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,733 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description

Wastewater Level B Operator | Millsboro, DE
Full-Time | On-Site | Wastewater Treatment Operations
Elizabeth Banzhaf, LPN
Co-Founder & COO | Heartline Staffing
Call or Text: 272-230-3157
LinkedIn: View Elizabeth's LinkedIn
Prefer a quick conversation? Call or text Elizabeth directly.
Heartline Staffing, in partnership with Purple Cow Recruiting, is seeking an experienced Wastewater Level B Operator for a full-time, on-site opportunity in Millsboro, Delaware. This position is designed for a licensed wastewater professional with at least three years of operating experience who can independently operate a wastewater treatment shift and perform hands-on equipment maintenance.
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Wastewater Level B Operator is responsible for the operation and maintenance of wastewater treatment facilities and systems. Unlike an entry-level operator working primarily under supervision, this position requires the ability to independently operate a shift while maintaining treatment processes, equipment, laboratory controls, compliance documentation, and facility safety standards.
A critical technical component of this role is hands-on mechanical maintenance, including the ability to rebuild progressing cavity (PC) pumps. The operator will also perform process-control laboratory work, maintain compliance records, and follow established Lockout/Tagout, PPE, and Process Safety Management procedures.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Independently operate a wastewater treatment shift
Operate and maintain wastewater treatment facilities and treatment systems
Monitor treatment processes and system performance
Maintain process and permit requirements throughout assigned shifts
Perform process-control laboratory work and routine testing
Record laboratory results and operational data accurately
Maintain required compliance records and documentation
Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on wastewater equipment
Rebuild and maintain progressing cavity (PC) pumps
Inspect and troubleshoot wastewater treatment equipment
Assist with repairs necessary to restore equipment capacity and minimize downtime
Maintain pumps, valves, chemical-feed systems, and related treatment equipment
Follow Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures
Follow Process Safety Management (PSM) requirements
Follow all required PPE and workplace safety procedures
Identify, prevent, and report unsafe acts and conditions
Maintain accurate operational, laboratory, maintenance, and compliance records
Work independently while coordinating appropriately with facility operations and maintenance personnel
RELEVANT WASTEWATER BACKGROUNDS
Qualified experience may come from:
Industrial Wastewater Treatment Facilities
Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants
Food-Processing Wastewater Operations
Large Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTWs)
Manufacturing Facilities with On-Site Wastewater Treatment
Environmental Services Wastewater Operations
POSITION LEVEL
This is an experienced operator position requiring substantially more independence than an entry-level wastewater role. The successful candidate must be capable of operating a wastewater treatment shift without direct supervision and handling both operational and mechanical responsibilities.

Requirements

High School Diploma or Equivalent REQUIRED
Minimum 3 Years of Acceptable Wastewater Operating Experience REQUIRED
Active Level II Wastewater Operator License REQUIRED
Ability to Independently Operate a Wastewater Treatment Shift REQUIRED
Hands-On Wastewater Treatment Facility Operations Experience REQUIRED
Wastewater Equipment Maintenance Experience REQUIRED
Ability to Rebuild Progressing Cavity (PC) Pumps REQUIRED
Preventive and Corrective Wastewater Equipment Maintenance Experience REQUIRED
Process-Control Laboratory Experience REQUIRED
Compliance Recordkeeping Experience REQUIRED
Practical Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Experience REQUIRED
Practical PPE Safety Experience REQUIRED
Process Safety Management (PSM) Experience REQUIRED
Ability to Work Full-Time On-Site in Millsboro, DE REQUIRED
Experience with Pumps, Valves, Chemical-Feed Systems, and Related Wastewater Equipment Preferred
Industrial or Food-Processing Wastewater Experience Preferred
Municipal Wastewater Treatment Experience Considered
LICENSE NOTE: Candidates must hold a Level II Wastewater Operator License applicable to the position. Candidates holding an equivalent out-of-state wastewater license should be able to demonstrate applicable Delaware reciprocity or transfer/endorsement eligibility.
IMPORTANT: This position requires an experienced wastewater operator who can independently operate a treatment shift. Candidates whose wastewater experience has been entirely supervised without responsibility for independently operating a shift do not meet the core operating requirement.
Not ready to apply? If you have Level II wastewater operating experience and would prefer to discuss the opportunity first, call or text Elizabeth directly at 272-230-3157.