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Entry Level Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Westlake

Operator

Plaquemine, LA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Process Technology along with industrial work or applicable military experience is preferred Entry level, however, some experience as an operator in a ...

Carline Companies

Deckhand-Entry Level

Geismar, LA · On-site

We're seeking entry level deckhands to join our team! We are an inland marine company that is ... Carline is a family-owned towing operator located in Geismar, LA operating between New Orleans and ...

Imh

Plant Operator

Central, LA · On-site

$31.70 - $48.24/hr

The Plan Operator is a position in the Facilities Management department that requires entry-level experience in plant operations. Regardless of specialty, a Plant Operator I may be required to ...

LED FastStart

Loader / Dock Operator

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

Chemical Plant Loader / Dock Operator PSC Group is now hiring full time, entry level Chemical Plant Loaders and Dock Operators that will have the opportunity to build a long-term, stable career in an ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Port Allen, LA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Walker, LA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$13 - $16.75/hr

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Greenwell Springs, LA · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

Waffle House, Inc.

Cook / Grill Operator

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Our busiest time is the weekends, - So, we'll ask you to be available to work some weekends and some holidays Requirements: * Entry level, no experience required * Must have a positive and friendly ...

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Entry Level Operator information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

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How much do entry level operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $16.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Entry Level Operators and how can they be addressed?

Entry Level Operators often face challenges such as mastering complex machinery, adapting to shift work, and maintaining consistent productivity in a fast-paced environment. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to take advantage of on-the-job training, ask questions, and seek guidance from experienced team members. Building strong communication skills and being proactive about safety procedures can also help new operators quickly become effective and confident in their roles.

What are entry level operators?

Entry level operators are employees who typically work in manufacturing, production, or industrial settings and are responsible for running machinery, monitoring equipment, and ensuring products meet quality standards. They are usually new to the field and receive on-the-job training to learn how to operate specific machines or processes. Their duties may include starting and stopping equipment, doing basic maintenance, reporting malfunctions, and keeping work areas clean and safe. Entry level operators play a key role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently.

What is the difference between Entry Level Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectEntry Level OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentFactories, manufacturing plants, industrial settingsFactories, manufacturing lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles across manufacturing and industrial sectorsOperational roles in manufacturing, processing, and production industries
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Operator and a Machine Operator lies in their experience and specialization. Entry Level Operators typically have basic training and perform general operational tasks, while Machine Operators often have specific technical skills and certifications to handle particular machinery. Both roles are essential in manufacturing environments and share similar work settings, but Machine Operators usually require more technical expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Operator, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, basic mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn safety and operational procedures. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control systems, and safety certifications like OSHA are often required or highly valued. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations in manufacturing or industrial environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA? The most popular types of Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA? For Entry Level Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Entry Level Operator jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Entry Level Operator job openings:
Entry Level Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,882 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Operator

Operator

Westlake

Plaquemine, LA • On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Westlake Chemical rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 92 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

SUMMARY
Assist in the operations of the unit using sound and safe environmental procedures.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
May include, but are not limited to, the following:

Demonstrates strong safety culture through personal behavior and commitment to environmental, health & safety

Participates in the PACE culture of safety

Writes permits and work orders in accordance with company environmental, health and safety and operational procedures

Reports injuries, incidents and hazards to unit supervision as soon as reasonably possible.

Conducts tasks and operational duties with appropriate PPE as assigned

Reviews JHA for appropriate PPE needed for routine and non-routine duties

Actively participates in unit safety training and monthly safety modules

Ensures LOTO and Confined Space Entry operations are permitted per procedures and are only permitted by persons trained and qualified to issue work permits

Assist in the operations of the unit using sound and safe environmental procedures

Prepare equipment for mechanical repairs according to safe work practices to insure cost effective repairs and prevent exposure of mechanics to hazards

Ensure product conforms to manufacturing specifications and take appropriate actions for conditions outside those specifications

Other duties as assigned and within appropriate training


EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Process Technology along with industrial work or applicable military experience is preferred
Entry level, however, some experience as an operator in a chemical plant is desired, preferably experience in Chlorine, PVC or VCM plants
Must be able to communicate effectively
Must have excellent mechanical skills
Position also requires 12 hour rotating shift work
Positions require a very high level of physical activity including, but not limited to, bending, squatting, kneeling, walking, standing, hand/wrist activities, push/pull activities, climbing and lifting up to 50 lbs.
Successful candidates must satisfy background screening, including motor vehicle record screening, drug testing & pre-employment physical requirements before starting work
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is constantly required to stand and walk, frequent hand/wrist activities and climbing; occasional bending, reaching, overhead and push/pull activities. Must be able to use hands to touch, handle, or feel. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The noise level in the work environment is high. Some of the work may be required in the operating units which requires usage of required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, etc. May also result in exposure to outside elements and may require usage of stairs.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here.You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.

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