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Chemical Reactor Operator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear NextGen Operations

Two Rivers, WI ยท On-site

$132K - $159K/yr

The NextGen Operator - Nuclear Operations Development Program is a structured, multi-year ... Chemical Engineering * Power Systems Engineering * Prior leadership, team-based project work, or ...

Nuclear NextGen Operations

Two Rivers, WI ยท On-site

$132K - $159K/yr

The NextGen Operator - Nuclear Operations Development Program is a structured, multi-year ... Chemical Engineering * Power Systems Engineering * Prior leadership, team-based project work, or ...

Chemical Reactor Operator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$14

$20

$26

How much do chemical reactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical reactor operator in Wisconsin is $20.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chemical reactor operator?

Chemical Reactor Operators are skilled professionals responsible for controlling and monitoring chemical reactors used in manufacturing processes. They oversee the equipment that mixes, heats, or processes raw materials to produce chemicals, ensuring safety, efficiency, and quality standards are met. Their duties often include starting and stopping reactors, adjusting controls, recording data, and responding to alarms or malfunctions. Chemical Reactor Operators play a critical role in industries like pharmaceuticals, plastics, and petrochemicals, where precise chemical reactions are essential.

How does a chemical reactor operator typically collaborate with engineers and quality control teams during daily operations?

Chemical Reactor Operators work closely with process engineers and quality control teams to ensure that reactor conditions remain within specified parameters and that product quality meets regulatory standards. They regularly monitor equipment, log operational data, and communicate any irregularities or deviations to the engineering team for troubleshooting. Quality control personnel may sample products during the process, and operators are responsible for making real-time adjustments based on feedback, fostering a collaborative environment focused on safety and efficiency.

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

To thrive as a Chemical Reactor Operator, you need a solid understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring additional technical training. Familiarity with process control systems, laboratory equipment, and safety certification such as OSHA HAZWOPER is common in this role. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators respond to process changes and work safely in team environments. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and consistent operation of chemical production processes.

What is the difference between Chemical Reactor Operator vs Chemical Plant Operator?

AspectChemical Reactor OperatorChemical Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in safety and process controlHigh school diploma, technical training, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentOperate and monitor reactors in chemical processing facilitiesOversee entire chemical production processes, including reactors and other equipment
Industry UsageSpecific to reactor operation within chemical manufacturingBroader, includes managing various equipment and processes in chemical plants

While both roles work within chemical manufacturing facilities and require safety certifications, Chemical Reactor Operators focus specifically on operating and monitoring chemical reactors. Chemical Plant Operators oversee the entire production process, including reactors and auxiliary equipment. The roles are complementary, with Reactor Operators specializing in reactor systems and Plant Operators managing overall plant operations.

Is it hard to become a chemical reactor operator?

Becoming a chemical reactor operator typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or an apprenticeship. The role involves understanding complex processes, operating specialized equipment, and often obtaining certifications such as a state license or safety training, making it a skilled but attainable career path for those with technical aptitude.

What does a chemical reactor operator do?

A chemical reactor operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring chemical reactions in industrial reactors to ensure safe and efficient production. They operate control systems, adjust process parameters, perform routine inspections, and respond to equipment issues, often requiring knowledge of safety protocols and certifications. Their work environment typically involves working with hazardous materials and adhering to strict safety standards.

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Reactor Operator jobs in Wisconsin?

For Chemical Reactor Operator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chemical Reactor Operator jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Reactor Operator jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various Chemical Reactor Operator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 48% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,991 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Plant Maintenance Technician -- Industrial & HVAC Systems

PPG US Industrial Facilities

Oak Creek, WI โ€ข On-site

$33.40/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Be the reason production never stops — Plant Maintenance Technician (Oak Creek, WI)

Pay: $33.40 starting rate + $0.80 shift differential | Shift: Evenings, 2:30 PM–11:00 PM

You’re the kind of technician who sees a tripped reactor sensor, a noisy mill bearing, and a warm HVAC alarm as a challenge to conquer. At PPG’s Oak Creek chemical manufacturing facility, your work keeps our lines running and our customers supplied—safely, efficiently, and on time.

Your mission

Own the reliability of critical process and facility assets. In this role you will:

  • Install, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain mechanical and electrical systems on reactors, mills, mixing equipment, HVAC units, and general facility equipment.
  • Execute preventive maintenance and complete work orders with precision.
  • Follow site SOPs and uphold a safety-first mindset.
  • Conduct root cause analysis and implement lasting corrective actions.
What you’ll need to succeed
  • Able to lift up to 50 pounds throughout the shift.
  • Experience in manufacturing or warehouse operations is preferred.
  • Willingness to take on any assignment and support overtime as required.
  • Clean-shaven to properly wear PPE.
  • Working knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems.
  • Comfort working in a chemical manufacturing environment.
Why PPG

PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD™

From transportation to construction to consumer products, we help customers enhance more surfaces, in more ways, than anyone else. Explore www.ppg.com and follow @PPG on X.

How we work — The PPG Way 2030

We challenge ourselves to be:

  • Customer champions — we listen, act fast, and stick with tough problems until they’re solved.
  • Purposeful and fast — empowered, agile, and guided by quality data and smart risk-taking.
  • Excellent operators — productive, collaborative, and accountable with continuous improvement at our core.
  • Competitive winners — ambitious, future-focused, and tech-enabled.
  • PPG proud — safe, ethical, united, and inspired by diverse perspectives.
Our process

We use AI to help streamline hiring steps—but AI does not make hiring decisions. Learn more: https://careers.ppg.com/us/en/candidate-resources.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodations

PPG provides equal opportunity to all candidates and employees. We offer an opportunity to grow and develop your career in an environment that provides a fulfilling workplace for employees, creates an environment for continuous learning, and embraces the ideas and diversity of others. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, pregnancy, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, disability status, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

If you need an adjustment due to a disability, please email recruiting@ppg.com.

Compensation and benefits

Our pay and benefits can differ by location to remain competitive. Pay decisions consider skill set, experience, training, education, licenses/certifications, and organizational needs. Additional incentives may be offered.

Employee benefits support total well-being. Any coverage and benefits are subject to plan terms and governing documents. Your recruiter will review details during the hiring process.

Help us improve

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