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Drum Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Processing Operator I

Fort Smith, AR · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Processing Operator Location : Fort Smith, AR Duration: 12 months * Receive and unload bulk raw ... Use forklift, drum lift, and TrackMobile for material movement * Monitor and adjust processing ...

Chemical Operator

North Augusta, SC · On-site

$15.50 - $17.75/hr

Unload and load trucks, drums and other containers. * Assist Pressure Washing/Decontaminating ... Ability to work independently or with a team while operating under the supervision of an ...

Processing Operator I

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$18.25 - $23/hr

Processing Operator Location : Fort worth, TX Duration: 12 months * Receive and unload bulk raw ... Use forklift, drum lift, and TrackMobile for material movement * Monitor and adjust processing ...

Load drums, sieve stones, and drum parts; inspect parts for quality and accuracy * Operate cryo ... Experience operating press or other production machinery * High school diploma or GED * Good verbal ...

Perform routine and operator level preventive maintenance and cleaning of equipment or surroundings ... Tip and move 55 gallon drums, weighing up to 600 pounds, with the use of a drum dolly. Work ...

Prepares and transfers bins, drums and other containers of raw materials into the batching process ... Operations Supervisor, Line Lead, Batch Operator, Filler Operator, Quality Personnel and ...

Bin Dump Operator III

Los Banos, CA · On-site

$19.27 - $25.05/hr

Prepares and transfers bins, drums and other containers of raw materials into the batching process ... Operations Supervisor, Line Lead, Batch Operator, Filler Operator, Quality Personnel and ...

Equipment Operator

Allentown, PA · On-site

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

Operate fork truck, lifting mechanisms, drum dumpers, drum and pallet jacks. * Reliable, regular ... Equipment Operators: In this role, you'll be trained to safely feed and operate equipment that ...

Machine Operator

Lexington, TN · On-site

$13 - $15.50/hr

... assemblies into drums. · Set-up and operate assembly machine. · Set-up and operate various ... and operator Semi-Automatic Welder/Calibrator/Stamping press and Shear Machine. · Read and ...

Chemical Operator

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $21.25/hr

Machine Operator- text 8 4 7 5 8 0 2 8 1 4 if interested This role focuses on safely operating ... Label drums and totes clearly and accurately to meet safety and regulatory requirements. * Perform ...

Perform routine and operator level preventive maintenance and cleaning of equipment or surroundings ... Tip and move 55 gallon drums, weighing up to 600 pounds, with the use of a drum dolly. Work ...

Operator

Sanford, NC · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

We are looking for an Operator - Blending/Loading for swing shift in Sanford, NC to become part of ... Responsible for drum, tote, and bin management, including unloading, organizing, documenting, and ...

Operator

Sanford, NC · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

We are looking for an Operator - Blending/Loading for swing shift in Sanford, NC to become part of ... Responsible for drum, tote, and bin management, including unloading, organizing, documenting, and ...

... while operating RO filler equipment filling drums with RO puree product. Ensures product quality ... Performs set-up and makes adjustments while in operation. 2. 30% Transports empty and full drums ...

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Drum Operator information

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How much do drum operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for drum operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Drum Operator do?

A Drum Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring industrial drum machines, which are commonly used in manufacturing and processing facilities to mix, blend, or process materials. Their duties may include loading materials into drums, setting machine controls, observing operations, and ensuring product quality and safety standards are met. Drum Operators also perform routine maintenance, troubleshoot minor issues, and maintain accurate production records. This role often requires attention to detail, mechanical aptitude, and adherence to safety protocols.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drum Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drum Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with industrial machinery, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications in forklift operation or hazardous materials handling are typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills help you work efficiently and safely in a manufacturing environment. These abilities are crucial for maintaining production quality, ensuring workplace safety, and minimizing equipment downtime.

What is the difference between Drum Operator vs Conveyor Belt Operator?

AspectDrum OperatorConveyor Belt Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial sitesFactories, warehouses, distribution centers
Job DutiesOperate drums for mixing, storage, or processingMonitor and control conveyor belts for material movement
Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical processing, miningLogistics, manufacturing, distribution

While both roles involve operating equipment in industrial settings, a Drum Operator primarily manages drums used for mixing or storing materials, whereas a Conveyor Belt Operator focuses on controlling conveyor systems for material transport. Both require safety certifications and are common in manufacturing environments, but their specific duties and equipment differ.

What are some common challenges Drum Operators face during their shifts, and how can they effectively address them?

Drum Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining consistent product quality, troubleshooting mechanical issues with the drum equipment, and managing time efficiently during batch changes or cleanings. Adhering to standard operating procedures and performing routine equipment checks can help prevent unexpected downtime. Effective communication with maintenance and quality control teams is crucial for quickly resolving issues and ensuring smooth workflow. Staying organized and proactive with documentation also helps Drum Operators manage workload and maintain safety standards.
More about Drum Operator jobs
Infographic showing various Drum Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

$15.50 - $17.75/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Description

Successful candidates must possess, as a minimum, the following competencies, skills and/or abilities:

  • Commitment to a strong safety culture is a requirement. Leads by example.
  • Unload and load trucks, drums and other containers.
  • Assist Pressure Washing/Decontaminating Equipment.
  • Perform weekly safety checks/Plant Readings throughout the plant.
  • Work 12-hour rotating shifts and overtime hours as required by the job.
  • Drum Filling/ Finish Product Packaging.
  • Operate Chemical Processes/Alarm Monitoring/Record Process Data.
  • Exceptional attention to detail with high standards of excellence.
  • Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills required.
  • Demonstrated computer literacy.
  • Ability to work independently or with a team while operating under the supervision of an experienced operator or shift supervisor.
  • Must understand the hazards of chemicals and equipment.
  • Must be trained and able to wear supplied air respirators.
  • Unload/Load raw material trucks & Housekeeping responsibility.
  • Must be able to work from heights (including elevated platforms, scaffolds, lifts, and ladders).
  • Demonstrated effective oral & written communication skills.
  • Must have High School Diploma, General Education Development (GED) or equivalent. 
  • Three years of experience in a manufacturing environment & Chemical Operator experience preferred.