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Entry Level Chemical Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Technician (Second Shift)

Hollister, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.75/hr

Summary We are seeking an entry-level Chemical Technician I to join our explosives manufacturing team. This role is ideal for individuals who are highly safety-focused, detail-oriented, and eager to ...

New

Chemical Technician

Hollister, CA · On-site

$20.75 - $27.75/hr

Summary We are seeking an entry-level Chemical Technician I to join our explosives manufacturing team. This role is ideal for individuals who are highly safety-focused, detail-oriented, and eager to ...

Lab Technician

Martinez, CA · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Laboratory Technician PSC Group is hiring entry-level Chemical Plant Laboratory Technicians! Support plant operations by performing precise lab tests and build a stable career in a booming industry.

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Entry Level Chemical information

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How much do entry level chemical jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level chemical in California is $20.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.54 and $21.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level chemical?

Entry level chemical jobs are positions suited for individuals who have recently graduated with a degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field and have little to no professional experience. These roles often involve supporting senior chemists or engineers in laboratories, production facilities, or research and development teams. Common responsibilities include conducting experiments, analyzing samples, maintaining equipment, and assisting in process optimization. Entry level positions help new professionals gain hands-on industry experience and develop technical skills necessary for career advancement.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry level chemical engineer?

As an entry-level chemical engineer, you will typically be involved in assisting with process design, data analysis, and troubleshooting within manufacturing or research environments. Your daily tasks may include running experiments, monitoring production processes, collecting data, and preparing technical reports. You'll often collaborate with senior engineers, technicians, and quality assurance teams to ensure safety and efficiency. This role provides valuable hands-on experience and exposure to industry-standard equipment, laying a strong foundation for future advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level chemical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Chemical Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or a related field, along with a solid understanding of chemistry, mathematics, and process engineering principles. Familiarity with industry-standard simulation software such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB, as well as safety and environmental regulations, is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, effective teamwork, and clear communication help you solve problems and work efficiently within project teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and innovative solutions in chemical manufacturing or process industries.

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

AspectEntry Level ChemicalEntry Level Chemical Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require an associate degreeHigh school diploma; often an associate degree or relevant certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratory, manufacturing, or field settingsLaboratory and industrial environments, often hands-on work
Employer & Industry UsageChemical manufacturing, research, quality controlManufacturing plants, laboratories, quality assurance
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in chemistryClarifying responsibilities and qualifications of chemical technician roles

Entry Level Chemical roles typically involve basic chemistry knowledge and may require minimal formal education, focusing on general laboratory or industrial tasks. Entry Level Chemical Technicians often have similar educational backgrounds but may perform more technical, hands-on tasks in labs or manufacturing settings. Both roles serve as foundational positions in the chemical industry, with technicians usually having more specialized training or certifications.

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

The most popular types of Chemical jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Chemical jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Chemical job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Chemical job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,240 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Chemical Technician (Second Shift)

Ralliant

Hollister, CA • On-site

$20.75 - $27.75/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Summary
We are seeking an entry-level Chemical Technician I to join our explosives manufacturing team. This role is ideal for individuals who are highly safety-focused, detail-oriented, and eager to learn specialized processes within powder blending, propellant manufacturing, and linear formed explosives operations. Full training is provided, with responsibilities increasing as competency and proficiency are demonstrated.
This is for the second shift and the hours are 3:00 PM to 1:30 AM, Monday-Thursday
Key Responsibilities
• Follow all safety procedures, standard operating processes, and regulatory requirements
• Accurately record time worked, material movement, traceability labels, and inventory logs
• Deliver materials to production lines, X-ray, and chemistry laboratory
• Clean equipment, tooling, containers, facilities, and vehicles using solvents and water
• Safely handle and process explosive and solvent waste
• Participate in daily management meetings, 5S activities, FOD control, and continuous improvement initiatives
• Assist in updating process documentation and hazard analyses
  1. Specific Duties, Responsibilities and Requirements:
    1. Chemical Technician I - Entry level
      1. Duties and responsibilities as listed in Section 1.
      2. Powder Blending
        1. Breakdown of dry 1.1 and 1.3 explosives from intermediate containers into increments for the production lines and chemical analysis. Initially as an observer/safety buddy progressing to operating under direct supervision and followed by solo operations. The progression of materials to handled will be as follows:
          1. 1.3 Pellets
          2. 1.3 Granules and powders
          3. 1.1C & 1.1D Powders
          4. 1.1A Powders
          5. 1.1A Initiating Explosives
        2. Assist in the Bulk breakdown of 1.3 and 1.1 (non-initiating) explosives
        3. Support PMA & LFE operations (as needed) with activities as listed in Section 2a
      3. Propellant Manufacturing Area (PMA)
        Weighing out of raw materials (inert, 1.1 and 1.3) from original manufacturer's containers into the propellant mix or intermediate containers. Initially as an observer/safety buddy progressing to operating under direct supervision and followed by general team operations.
        1. Participate in team efforts (as directed) to;
          1. Assemble and break-down cast tooling
          2. Load and unload mixing / casting operations
          3. Initiate and break cure cycles
          4. Load & unload dry powder milling equipment
          5. Support post operations clean-up activities
          6. Completion of travelers and process paperwork buy-offs
        2. Support Powder Blending & LFE operations (as needed) with activities as listed in Section 2a
  2. Linear Formed Explosives area (LFE)
    1. Initially as an observer/safety buddy progressing to operating under direct supervision and followed by general team operations, participate in team efforts (as directed) to;
      1. Clean, measure and weigh inert metal tubes
        1. Crimp, point and otherwise prepare inert metal tubes for loading
          1. Remotely Swag & Draw sealed, loaded tubes
          2. Remotely Crimp, Point, Sample & Cut loaded tubes
          3. Perform de-finning & Yoder operations
          4. Preliminary Coreload
          5. Support post operations clean-up activities
          6. Completion of travelers and process paperwork buy-offs
        2. Support Powder Blending & PMA operations (as needed) with activities as listed in Section 2a

Minimum Requirements:
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Experience Required: 1 year, min. experience in the handling of explosives or other hazardous materials
  • Basic math and mechanical skills
  • US Citizen

#LI-AC1
Ralliant Corporation Overview
Ralliant, originally part of Fortive, now stands as a bold, independent public company driving innovation at the forefront of precision technology. With a global footprint and a legacy of excellence, we empower engineers to bring next-generation breakthroughs to life - faster, smarter, and more reliably. Our high-performance instruments, sensors, and subsystems fuel mission-critical advancements across industries, enabling real-world impact where it matters most. At Ralliant we're building the future, together with those driven to push boundaries, solve complex problems, and leave a lasting mark on the world.
About PacSci EMC
Pacific Scientific Energetic Materials Company (PacSci EMC), a Ralliant Corporation (NYSE: RAL) operating company, makes critical missions possible. From concept to demonstration to delivery, we provide leading-edge energetic materials, devices and subsystems for use in military and commercial applications. With engineering and manufacturing capability in Arizona and California, our associates work together to solve the toughest technical challenges with a dedication to Safety First, Quality Every TimeTM. We enable success for innumerable missions on a daily basis, impacting the lives of military personnel, law enforcement officers, commercial airline pilots, astronauts, and oil field operators. For nearly a century, PacSci EMC's experience and expertise has been relied upon in the times When Milliseconds MatterTM. For more information, go to www.psemc.com. PacSci EMC is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, sex, religion, age, national origin, color, disability, or veteran status. Nonetheless, US citizenship is a requirement for this position due to U.S. Government contractual requirements. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment. We all have a role in building a community where everyone belongs. Where you can speak your mind, be yourself, and feel supported. It's how we achieve more together - for each other, for our customers, and for the world. https://www.Ralliant.com/inclusion-diversity.
We Are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Ralliant Corporation and all Ralliant Companies are proud to be equal opportunity employers. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or other characteristics protected by law. Ralliant and all Ralliant Companies are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Individuals who need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment application process, please contact us at applyassistance@Ralliant.com.
Bonus or Equity
This position is also eligible for bonus as part of the total compensation package.
Pay Range
The salary range for this position (in local currency) is 16.92-31.44
Is this role subject to ITAR?
The essential duties of this position require adherence to U.S. Government export control regulations. Accordingly, candidates must either be U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, or protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)) or be prepared to collaborate with the company in securing the necessary U.S. government export authorizations. While the company encourages all interested applicants to apply, please be aware that ongoing employment is dependent upon obtaining the appropriate government export authorizations.