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Chemical Reactor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

Preliminary models tying operating conditions to reactor performance metrics. * Documented ... Coursework or hands-on experience with thermal-chemical reactors or similar high-temperature ...

Chemical Operator

Alameda, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Manage production runs from start to finish, including feedstock preparation, reactor charging ... operating pilot-scale or production-scale process equipment in industries such as chemical ...

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.

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.

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 ...

Conduct system-level heat and mass balance analyses for steady-state and transient operating ... reactor-grade materials under HTGR-relevant conditions. * Support the specification, sizing, and ...

Conduct system-level heat and mass balance analyses for steady-state and transient operating ... reactor-grade materials under HTGR-relevant conditions. * Support the specification, sizing, and ...

Receive comprehensive training to obtain licensure as a Senior Reactor Operator from the U.S ... Chemical safety and hygiene * Familiarity with design and operation of high and very-high vacuum ...

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Chemical Reactor Operator information

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How much do chemical reactor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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.

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 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.

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:
Infographic showing various Chemical Reactor Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,592 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Chemical Operator Job

Arkema

Chester, SC

$19.25 - $22.25/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Title:      Chemical Operator

SITUATION IN ORGANIZATION

This position reports directly to the Shift Supervisor. This position has no direct reports.

JOB DIMENSIONS

Inspect, operate, and control chemical processing and handling equipment associated with the production and/or processing of chemical products. Ancillary activities include routine inspection of equipment in a safe, effective, and efficient manner.

KEY ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Production 90%: 

  • Perform routine safety inspection of plant and ensures safety of plant operations.
  • Operates and monitors automated and manually operated chemical process equipment, including mixing tanks, reactor vessels, distillation equipment, cooling/heating equipment, etc.
  • Understands the importance of maintaining quality in work in all production related activities.
  • Moving/transferring chemicals and equipment throughout the facility both manually and with the aid of powered and automated equipment. Operates pallet jacks and forklift trucks.
  • Obtain quality control samples of raw materials, semi and finished products for quality control laboratory analysis.
  • Assist in shipping and receiving of raw materials and finished products on occasion.  Assist in packaging products for shipment, including drums and totes.
  • Retain knowledge of basic chemistry and chemical hazards and apply this knowledge in daily work activities.
  • Perform basic arithmetic operations.
  • Keep accurate monitoring reports/logs and documentation of process events.
  • To follow the direction of the shift leaders/supervisors.
  • Understand the hazards and risks associated with handling and processing various chemicals.
  • Understand plant environmental health and safety regulations and comply with all applicable laws and regulatory requirements.

Quality & Other Duties 10-15%:

  • Evaluate storm water, including measuring pH and clarity, and discharge storm water per plant procedures.
  • Occasionally perform basic quality control analytical procedures, including pH testing.
  • Perform various housekeeping activities.
  • Effectively carry out verbal and written instructions.
  • Make independent judgments concerning assigned tasks.
  • Discern situations where supervisory/management input is advisable.
  • Responsible to use personal protective equipment as required.
  • Perform duties of Material Handler when needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

CONTEXT AND ENVIRONMENT:

  • This position requires working on rotating shifts (24/7 operations) at the discretion of supervisory and management personnel.
  • This position may periodically require overtime or a modified schedule to ensure that production needs are met.
  • Work is primarily performed outside during all seasons.
  • No travel is required.
  • This position requires ability to lift 55 pounds regularly, hoisting, and frequent walking and climbing stairs and ladders. 
  • Personal protective equipment (e.g., respirators and chemical resistant clothing, hard hats, safety eyewear, etc.) that may be required at times will increase the level of physical stress experienced by workers.
  • Understand the hazards and risks associated with maintenance and repair activities in a chemical manufacturing facility. 
  • Retain knowledge of basic chemistry and chemical hazards and apply this knowledge in daily work activities.
  • Make independent judgments concerning assigned tasks, considering safety and environmental concerns
  • Safely wear and/or use required personal protective equipment.
  • Supports the site HES policy and complies with all regulatory and internal requirements.
  • Participates in HES activities provided by site management and Arkema Inc. (e.g., Behavioral Base Safety, etc.).
  • Supports and promotes the reporting of all health, safety, environmental, near-miss, accident or injury incidents.

REQUIRED EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS /WORK EXPERIENCE:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum of three years' manufacturing experience, preferred in chemical manufacturing. 
  • Basic computer literacy, including email and data entry is required.
  • Experience with automated processing systems is preferred.
  • Ability to operate a forklift is required. 
  • The work is performed in a control room, enclosed chemical processing facility and outdoors

DEMONSTRATED COMPETENCIES:

Technical expertise

  • Ability to assimilate new information and apply it to unfamiliar situations in the future.
  • Ability to improve safety, organization, and housekeeping with minimal direction
  • Ability to independently utilize Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for the protection of the individual, coworkers, and the environment.

Organizational expertise

  • Strong safety-minded work ethic and work history
  • Strong team member skills including communication, participation, and expressing mutual respect