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Chemical Reactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Water Technologies

Chemical Operator I

Beaumont, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

As a Chemical Operator, you will play a crucial role in the safe and efficient operation of our ... Start pumps to wash and rinse reactor vessels, to exhaust gases and vapors, to regulate the flow of ...

Veolia Environnement SA

Chemical Operator I

Beaumont, TX · On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

As a Chemical Operator, you will play a crucial role in the safe and efficient operation of our ... Start pumps to wash and rinse reactor vessels, to exhaust gases and vapors, to regulate the flow of ...

Sun Chemical Corporation

Synthesis Operator

Newport, DE · On-site

$18.75 - $21.25/hr

Together with DIC, Sun Chemical is continuously working to promote and develop sustainable ... Maintain housekeeping at excellent levels, keeping the tanks, floor and reactor deck areas clean.

Sun Chemical Corporation

Synthesis Operator

Newport, DE

$18.75 - $21.25/hr

Together with DIC, Sun Chemical is continuously working to promote and develop sustainable ... Maintain housekeeping at excellent levels, keeping the tanks, floor and reactor deck areas clean.

Arkema

Chemical Operator Job

Chester, SC · On-site

$19.25 - $22.25/hr

Operates and monitors automated and manually operated chemical process equipment, including mixing tanks, reactor vessels, distillation equipment, cooling/heating equipment, etc. * Understands the ...

Arkema

Chemical Operator Job

Chester, SC

$19.25 - $22.25/hr

Operates and monitors automated and manually operated chemical process equipment, including mixing tanks, reactor vessels, distillation equipment, cooling/heating equipment, etc. * Understands the ...

Arkema

Chemical Operator Job

Chester, SC · On-site

$19.25 - $22.25/hr

Operates and monitors automated and manually operated chemical process equipment, including mixing tanks, reactor vessels, distillation equipment, cooling/heating equipment, etc. * Understands the ...

Stepan

Operator

Elwood, IL

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

... chemical reactions, quality, and yields ... Start pumps and/or operate control valves to wash and rinse reactor vessels, to exhaust gases and ...

Stepan

Sulfonation Operator

Elwood, IL · On-site

$20 - $22.75/hr

... chemical changes or reactions in the processing of chemicals at Stepan Millsdale. • Moving ... reactor vessels, to exhaust gases and vapors, to regulate the flow of oil, steam, air, and to add ...

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Chemical Reactor Operator information

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How much do chemical reactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical reactor operator in the United States is $20.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How to get a job as a nuclear reactor operator?

To become a nuclear reactor operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training and licensing from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). This includes completing a training program, gaining experience in a nuclear plant, and passing written and practical exams to obtain a license. Strong technical skills, attention to safety protocols, and the ability to work in a high-pressure environment are essential.

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 are Chemical Reactor Operators?

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.

What is the highest paying machine operator job?

Among machine operators, chemical reactor operators tend to have higher salaries due to specialized skills in managing complex chemical processes and safety protocols. Senior reactor operators with extensive experience and certifications can earn higher wages, especially in industries like petrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. Advanced technical knowledge and adherence to safety standards are key factors influencing compensation.

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 maintain safety protocols, often working with specialized equipment and requiring technical training or certifications.

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.

How much money do nuclear reactor workers make?

Nuclear reactor operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $85,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in facilities with demanding safety and technical requirements.
More about Chemical Reactor Operator jobs
What states have the most Chemical Reactor Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Chemical Reactor Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chemical Reactor Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chemical Reactor Operator jobs are:
Chemical Reactor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Reactor Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,592 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Chemical Operator I

Water Technologies

Beaumont, TX • On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Veolia Group is a global leader in environmental services, operating across all five continents with nearly 218,000 employees. Specializing in water, energy, and waste management, Veolia Group designs and implements innovative solutions for decarbonization, depollution, and resource regeneration, supporting communities and industries in their ecological transformation.

Within this framework, Veolia's Water Technology Business brings together a dedicated team of experienced professionals committed to tackling the world’s most complex challenges related to water scarcity, quality, productivity, and energy. Together, we pursue a shared mission to create a more sustainable future.

Job Description

As a Chemical Operator, you will play a crucial role in the safe and efficient operation of our
chemical manufacturing processes. You will be responsible for monitoring and controlling
equipment, performing quality checks, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental
regulations. Your attention to detail and adherence to standard operating procedures will contribute
to the production of high-quality chemicals. As part of this role, you will also serve as a member of
the Emergency Response Team (ERT).


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Support all Environmental, Health, and Safety programs, policies, and regulations to include the issuance of safe work permits (LOTO, hot work, etc.). 
  • Make necessary adjustments to equipment units affecting speeds of chemical reactions and quality. 
  • Monitor recording instruments, flow meters, panel lights, and other indicators, and listen for warning signals, to verify conformity of process conditions.
  • Control or operate chemical processes or systems of machines, using panel boards, control boards, or automatic equipment. Record operating data such as process conditions and instrument readings.
  • Confer with technical and supervisory personnel to report or resolve conditions affecting safety, efficiency, and product quality. Draw samples of products to be tested in the lab to ensure that standards are met.
  • Regulate or shut down equipment during emergency situations or as directed by supervisory personnel.
  • Start pumps to wash and rinse reactor vessels, to exhaust gases and vapors, to regulate the flow of oil, steam, air or gas to towers and to add products to converter or blending vessels.
  • Notify maintenance, engineering and other auxiliary personnel to correct equipment malfunctions and to adjust power, steam, water or air supplies as needed.
  • Inspect and operate Utility Equipment such as towers, boilers, chillers and scrubbers.
  • Calculate material requirements or yields according to formulas as directed. Gauge tank levels, using calibrated rods and pressure gauges.
  • Serve as an Emergency Response Team member in the event of an emergency.              
  • Responding to all emergency events, including fire, chemical spill/release, medical events, severe weather events, etc.
Qualifications

MINIMUM POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Graduate or General Education Degree (GED)
  • Minimum of 1-2 years’ experience working in a chemical manufacturing environment with hazardous materials.
  • Experience driving a forklift

EXPERIENCE

  • Minimum of 2 years’ related experience within the manufacturing / chemical industry.
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills
  • Attention to detail and strong math skills
  • Strong computer skills, including MS Outlook, Excel, Word, and the Internet
  • Team player, individual thinker
  • Customer focused; positive attitude

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Associate Degree in Process Technology or equivalent preferred.
  • Attention to detail and numbers-oriented 
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills 
  • Strong computer skills 
  • Working knowledge of SAP 
  • Team player, individual thinker
  • Previous experience dealing with HAZMAT, Fire, and/or Medical emergency events

Additional Information

Physical Requirements

  • This position requires successful completion of a medical surveillance examination as a condition of employment.
  • Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Safety Boots, Safety Clothing, Safety Helmet, Safety Goggle/Glasses, Respirator, Gloves)

As an inclusive company, Veolia is committed to diversity and gives equal consideration to all applications, without discrimination.