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Entry Level Chemical Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Description ENTRY LEVEL ROLE On the job training SALARY: 17-18/hr. SHIFT: 3rd Sunday to Thursday 11 ... Chemical Operator position. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS Must have a valid driver ...

Wastewater Operator

Leesburg, FL · On-site

$47K - $69K/yr

Nature of Work Wastewater Operator Apprentice - $18.80 per hour This is an entry-level class in the ... The class is responsible for monitoring wastewater treatment processes, adjusting chemical or ...

Water Plant Operator I

Bartow, FL · On-site

$21.17 - $29.32/hr

Job Summary This is entry-level work in operating and maintaining a municipal potable water ... The job risks exposure to chemical, biological, electrical, and mechanical hazards. The employee ...

Production Team Member

Lake Placid, FL · On-site

$12.25 - $15/hr

The Entry Level Production Team Member supports daily operations within a liquid fertilizer ... The role also includes operating a yard truck for trailer movement within the facility. This ...

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Entry Level Chemical Operator information

See Florida salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do entry level chemical operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level chemical operator in Florida is $15.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.85 and $15.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level chemical operator do?

An Entry Level Chemical Operator is responsible for assisting in the operation and monitoring of equipment used in chemical manufacturing processes. Their duties typically include measuring and mixing raw materials, maintaining equipment, monitoring gauges and sensors, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They work under the supervision of senior operators and follow detailed instructions to produce chemicals efficiently and safely. This role often requires attention to detail, adherence to safety regulations, and the ability to troubleshoot minor issues with the machinery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level chemical operator?

To thrive as an Entry Level Chemical Operator, you need a basic understanding of chemical processes, safety protocols, and at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with process control systems, such as Distributed Control Systems (DCS), and adherence to OSHA safety standards are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills help you excel in this role. These abilities are critical for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant chemical production operations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level chemical operators, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level chemical operators often face challenges such as adapting to strict safety protocols, learning to operate complex machinery, and understanding detailed process documentation. To overcome these, new operators should take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions when unsure, and closely follow guidance from experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and maintaining attention to detail are key to minimizing mistakes and ensuring a safe, efficient work environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Chemical Operator vs Chemical Technician?

AspectEntry Level Chemical OperatorChemical Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingAssociate degree in chemistry or related field often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, chemical processing facilitiesLaboratories, manufacturing sites, quality control labs
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in chemical plants, refineriesUsed in research, quality testing, and production support
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Chemical Operators typically focus on operating and monitoring chemical processing equipment, requiring basic technical skills and on-the-job training. Chemical Technicians often have more specialized education and assist in testing, quality control, and research activities. While both roles work in chemical manufacturing environments, their responsibilities and qualifications differ, making this comparison useful for job seekers exploring entry-level opportunities in the chemical industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Operator jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Chemical Operator jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Chemical Operator jobs in Florida?

For Entry Level Chemical Operator jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Entry Level Chemical Operator jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Entry Level Chemical Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Chemical Operator job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,829 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Laurel Plant - Chemical Operator

Milliken

Gainesville, FL

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Milliken & Company rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 62 rated fashion and textile manufacturers


Job description

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow's breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that enhance people's lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, flooring, chemical and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations. Discover more about Milliken's curious minds and inspired solutions at Milliken.com and on Facebook, Instagram and  LinkedIn.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

This position is located at the Milliken Chemical Plant located in Gainesville, FL, and reports to a Chemical Supervisor.A Chemical Operator is a key role in the chemical manufacturing processes. Qualified Chemical Operators will be able to work safely as a team in a Chemical Manufacturing Environment, learn chemical processing, and obtain multiple job certifications to progress to top pay. Entry-level associates will be expected to rotate on a 12-hour shift, first-third rotation, and will be expected to learn basic chemical and material handling skills.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Become familiar with all pertinent SOP's and departmental manuals and demonstrate ability to perform chemical operator duties.
  • Develop working knowledge of the setup, operation and cleanup of chemical process equipment; and demonstrate competency in operating assigned vessels in the Pay and Progression path.
  • Become knowledgeable of required paperwork flow, product flow and terminology used in each new production assignment.
  • Learn to properly identify and safely demonstrate how to disassemble, clean, reassemble all process filters utilized in commercial production processes as directed by supervisors.
  • Responsible for process paperwork including SAP, Excel and Label-printing computer system.
  • Maintain assigned work station(s) in a neat and orderly fashion with minimal supervision.
  • Maintain proficiency in proper sampling, weighing and labeling procedures and demonstrate the ability to keep all containers properly identified and labeled at all times.
  • Maintain proficiency in the operation of the following heating and cooling systems, including location of control switches, valves and regulators: City water Tower water Glycol cooling Steam boiler Hot oil heating.
  • Read and understand all written procedures contained in Chemical Process Documents.
  • Demonstrate this ability by completing required procedural batch sheets without error.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work and use time effectively under minimum supervision to accomplish assigned production goals and additional tasks to support safe and clean work environment.
  • Demonstrate proficient and safe drum handling techniques while moving full 55 gallon drums on/off of pallets.
  • Demonstrate proficient and safe cylinder handling techniques while transferring cylinders from one location to another as directed by supervisors.
  • Learn and demonstrate the ability to safely transport and load 25 kg bags of chemicals into various chemical processing equipment by hand.
  • Participate in Process Review Committee meetings to serve as the operator process expert.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work cooperatively with others. Demonstrate the ability to listen to supervisors and follow both verbal and written instructions. Be familiar with and comply with established Milliken Quality Policy.

QUALIFICATIONS - REQUIRED:

  • High School Diploma.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, work under pressure, and meet deadlines.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.Must be able to climb multiple steps, lift 50 pounds on a regular basis, pass medical clearance, and wear a full-face respirator.
  • Computer experience, Windows-based software.


QUALIFICATIONS - PREFERRED:

  • High level of computer skills.
  • Prior experience in a chemical or manufacturing environment.
  • Forklift experience. SAP experience.

The successful candidate will have strengths in the following:

  • Ability to multi-task.
  • Ability to work as a team and independently.
  • Self-direction and ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities.

By combining science with design and insights, Milliken tackles the issues and concerns of today. Every day, our community of innovators is invigorated by the challenge of finding creative ways to enhance people's lives and make the world around us easier, safer, more sustainable and more beautiful.


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