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Chemical Process Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical balance and material mixtures necessary for operation. Complies with safety related SOP in Chemical ...

The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical balance and material mixtures necessary for operation. Complies with safety related SOP in Chemical ...

The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical balance and material mixtures necessary for operation. Complies with safety related SOP in Chemical ...

As the Senior Chemical Process Engineer, you will stand up the sol-gel infusion and resin injection manufacturing processes at the heart of our thermal protection system production, carrying them ...

Recruiting & training of any junior process engineers Qualifications Job Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or other engineering discipline with significant study of ...

Process Engineer, Chemical

Livermore, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

Responsible for all chemical process engineering with a focus on chemical clean processes. * Responsible for ultrasonic cleaning process engineering. * Develop/maintain detailed process routings ...

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Chemical Process information

See California salary details

$15

$22

$35

How much do chemical process jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical process 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 process engineer?

Chemical Process Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and optimize processes for producing chemicals, fuels, pharmaceuticals, food, and other products. They work to ensure that manufacturing operations are safe, efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. Chemical Process Engineers apply principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and engineering to solve problems related to large-scale chemical manufacturing and to improve existing processes. Their work often involves troubleshooting, process simulation, and working with teams to scale up laboratory processes to industrial production.

What are some common challenges faced by chemical process engineers when scaling up a process from the lab to full production?

One of the main challenges chemical process engineers encounter during scale-up is ensuring that reactions and processes behave consistently when moving from small-scale laboratory settings to large-scale manufacturing. Differences in heat transfer, mixing, and mass transfer can lead to unexpected results or inefficiencies. Engineers must carefully design pilot trials, anticipate potential hazards, and work closely with cross-functional teams—including safety, quality, and operations—to address issues as they arise. This collaborative problem-solving is crucial to achieving a safe, efficient, and economically viable full-scale process.

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

To thrive as a Chemical Process Engineer, you need a strong background in chemical engineering principles, process design, and problem-solving skills, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering. Experience with process simulation software (such as Aspen Plus or HYSYS), knowledge of process control systems, and relevant certifications like a Professional Engineer (PE) license are valuable. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you excel in cross-functional environments and manage complex projects. These competencies are crucial for optimizing processes, ensuring safety, and driving efficiency in industrial operations.

What is the difference between Chemical Process vs Chemical Technician?

AspectChemical Process
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in chemical engineering or chemistry
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, laboratories
Job FocusDesign, optimize, and oversee chemical production processes
Employer & Industry UsageChemical manufacturing, petrochemical, pharmaceuticals

While Chemical Process professionals focus on designing and managing chemical production systems, Chemical Technicians assist in implementing these processes, conducting experiments, and maintaining equipment. Both roles are essential in the chemical industry, but Chemical Process roles are more involved in process development and optimization, whereas Chemical Technicians support daily operations and testing.

How hard is it to be a chemical process operator?

Becoming a chemical process operator requires understanding complex chemical processes, operating control systems, and following safety protocols. The job often involves shift work, attention to detail, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA training or technical diplomas. While it can be physically demanding and requires focus, it is generally accessible with proper training and experience.

What does a chemical process technician do?

A chemical process technician operates and monitors equipment used in chemical manufacturing processes, ensuring safety and efficiency. They perform routine inspections, troubleshoot issues, and maintain process control systems, often working with tools like sensors and control panels in a plant environment. Certification or training in process technology is typically required for this role.
Infographic showing various Chemical Process job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,082 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Chemical Process Operator

Fairfield, CA • On-site

ARDAGH GROUP
Glass and Glass Product Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$31.72/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Ardagh Group rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

PURPOSE OF THE JOB:

  • The Chemical Process Operator performs all chemical process tests required to maintain chemical balance and material mixtures necessary for operation.  Complies with safety related SOP in Chemical handling.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES: 

  • Operate and control all systems including making adjustments to wastewater solutions, oils, and materials.
  • Understands and complies with position related safety, SOPs, and work instructions especially for Lockout Tagout, wastewater treatment chemical handling, machine guarding, housekeeping, SQF and personal protective equipment.
  • Perform required chemical process tests to maintain prescribed chemical balance or material mixture necessary for operation of equipment.
  • Sample solutions at prescribed intervals to assure proper chemical balance and measurements of waste content.
  • Mix and maintain solutions in the operation for the process washer deionizers, coolant systems, water treatment, and soluble oil filtration systems.
  • Storage of chemicals and compounds.
  • Prepare chemical wash solutions for the washer involving measuring chemicals in liquid or dry form.
  • Prepare batches of soluble oil mixture according to prescribed percentages.
  • Setup, adjust and maintain washer and wastewater equipment including changing filters and cleaning filter screens.
  • Install, maintain, repair, and assist with overhaul on pumps, piping, plumbing, and support equipment.
  • Monitor, maintain and report the Hazardous Waste Program, as required.
  • Unload and store barrel totes and bulk material deliveries, such as oil and chemicals.
  • Deliver materials to “ready for use” locations. Maintain inventory records of supplies used in the process.
  • Examine, test, and measure product from assigned equipment for quality specifications using appropriate gauges and instruments.  Record all relevant information including the date.
  • Perform preventative maintenance inspections of assigned equipment, report findings, and take appropriate corrective action.
  • Write and perform maintenance work orders, as required.
  • Notify supervisor of recurring equipment malfunctions.
  • Notify supervisor of poor-quality material or supplies.
  • Operate equipment and assist production, as directed.
  • Perform other duties, as assigned

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

  • Familiar with personal protective equipment.
  • Mechanically inclined and familiar with hand tools.
  • Familiar with proper handling of chemical solvents.
  • Familiar with material safety data sheets.
  • Experience in manufacturing preferred.
  • Able to navigate computer-based programs.
  • High School diploma or equivalent (GED) required.

KEY JOB COMPETENCIES/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Able to stand for a long duration of time in excess of 8 hours a day.
  • Able to bend over and rotate body repeatedly.
  • Able to lift 40 pounds overhead.
  • Able to push/pull 800 lb. drums using hand truck.
  • Able to withstand heat, cold, vibrations, odors/fumes and loud noise.
  • Able to climb stairs frequently.
#IND1

Ardagh Metal Packaging is a leading global supplier of sustainable, infinitely recyclable metal beverage cans to brand owners. A subsidiary of sustainable packaging business Ardagh Group and a leading industry metal packaging company, Ardagh Metal Packaging employs more than 6,300 people across Europe, North America and Brazil, with sales of approximately $4.7 billion.

Ardagh Metal Packaging believes that the success of our business depends on the success of our people. We strive to create working environments where our employees feel valued and can work to their full potential. We offer exciting and rewarding opportunities for talented and creative people. If you have ambition and want to make an impact with your career, come and join our team - you’ll enjoy the journey!

Ardagh Metal Packaging - North America has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breast feeding, and related conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, race, creed, religion (including religious dress and grooming), color, national origin, ancestry (including association, affiliation, or participation with persons or activities related to national origin, English-proficiency or accent, or immigration status), physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital or domestic partner status, age, veteran or military status or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law. Discrimination against any employee or applicant based on any of these factors is prohibited.

Upon hire, the starting hourly base for this role is $31.72 per hour. The company also offer a Success Share Bonus that is dependent on the plant meeting certain metrics and targets. Please note that the wage provided is a good faith estimate and is only applicable for California residents. The wage could be different for applicants who do not reside in California. 

Benefits Offered:

  • Medical, prescription, dental and vision plans 
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) 
  • Life insurance  
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Paid holidays and vacation 
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability (STD/LTD) 
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 
  • Apprenticeship programs
  • Professional and personal development opportunities through Employee Resource Groups

Please note the compensation and benefits information above is accurate as of the date of this posting. Ardagh reserves the right to modify this information at any time in accordance with applicable law.


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