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Entry Level Process Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hood Plywood

Process Operator

Beaumont, MS

Hood Plywood, a division of Hood Industries, Inc., is seeking entry-level Process Operators for our Beaumont, MS facility. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining ...

Hood Plywood

Process Operator

Beaumont, MS

$19.06/hr

Hood Plywood, a division of Hood Industries, Inc., is seeking entry-level Process Operators for our Beaumont, MS facility. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining ...

Hood Plywood

Process Operator

Beaumont, MS · On-site

$19.06/hr

Hood Plywood, a division of Hood Industries, Inc., is seeking entry-level Process Operators for our Beaumont, MS facility. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining ...

Hood Plywood

Process Operator

Beaumont, MS

$19.06/hr

Hood Plywood, a division of Hood Industries, Inc., is seeking entry-level Process Operators for our Beaumont, MS facility. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining ...

Jerritt Canyon

Process Operator

Elko, NV · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Education and ExperienceAt least one (1) year of Process experience preferred. Entry level ... Including operating parameters, limits and functionality of equipment. Knowledge of high pressure ...

Jerritt Canyon Gold

Process Operator

Elko, NV

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

At least one (1) year of Process experience preferred. Entry level positions are available. * High School Diploma or GED. * Knowledge of milling, crushing and conveying equipment. Including operating ...

Jerritt Canyon

Process Operator

Elko, NV · On-site

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

At least one (1) year of Process experience preferred. Entry level positions are available. * High School Diploma or GED. * Knowledge of milling, crushing and conveying equipment. Including operating ...

Medvacon Life Sciences, LLC

Process Operator

Malvern, PA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Operator I Functions o Perform entry-level micronization and milling of both hazardous and non ... processes. o Report production on batch records following good documentation procedures (GDPs). o ...

Medvacon Life Sciences LLC

Process Operator

Malvern, PA · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

The Process Operator micronizemills client provided material including both active pharmaceutical ... entry-level micronization and milling of both hazardous and non-hazardous pharmaceutical actives ...

Xylem

Process Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

This is an entry-level role working in a plant or factory setting. The position involves performing ... Read and follow required processes accurately. * Contribute to achieving divisional results and ...

Xylem

Process Operator

Richmond, VA · On-site

$19 - $23/hr

This is an entry-level role working in a plant or factory setting. The position involves performing ... Read and follow required processes accurately. * Contribute to achieving divisional results and ...

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Entry Level Process Operator information

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$14

$21

$31

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

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level process operator in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level process operator?

An entry level process operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling machinery and equipment in manufacturing or processing plants. They ensure that processes run smoothly, safely, and efficiently by following standard operating procedures and reporting any issues to supervisors. Their duties often include starting or stopping equipment, taking readings, performing basic maintenance, and maintaining accurate logs. This role typically requires a high school diploma and some on-the-job training, making it an accessible entry point into industrial operations.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Process Operator, you need a basic understanding of industrial processes, safety protocols, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with process control systems, instrumentation, and sometimes certifications like OSHA safety training are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and teamwork help operators excel in monitoring equipment and responding to issues. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and continuous plant operations, minimizing downtime and maintaining product quality.

What are some typical challenges an entry level process operator may face when starting in this role?

As an Entry Level Process Operator, you may initially find it challenging to quickly learn and follow complex operational procedures and safety protocols, especially in fast-paced manufacturing or industrial environments. Adjusting to shift work and collaborating with experienced operators can also require adaptability and strong communication skills. However, with on-the-job training and support from your team, you'll gain practical experience and confidence in monitoring equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring quality standards are met.

What is the difference between Entry Level Process Operator vs Production Technician?

AspectEntry Level Process OperatorProduction Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical or vocational training often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing or processing plants, often in chemical, food, or pharmaceutical industriesManufacturing facilities, focusing on equipment maintenance and process support
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in chemical, oil & gas, and manufacturing sectorsUsed across similar industries, often overlapping with process roles

The Entry Level Process Operator and Production Technician roles share similar environments and credentials, often working in manufacturing plants. While both roles support production processes, process operators typically focus on monitoring and controlling equipment, whereas technicians may handle maintenance and troubleshooting tasks. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their skills and career goals.

How to become an entry level process operator with no experience?

To become an entry level process operator with no experience, candidates should focus on obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent, and consider completing relevant technical training or certifications such as OSHA safety courses. Gaining basic knowledge of industrial equipment and processes, along with strong attention to safety and communication skills, can improve job prospects; some employers offer on-the-job training for new hires.

Is it hard to be an entry level process operator?

Becoming an entry level process operator typically involves learning specific equipment and safety procedures, which can require on-the-job training or certifications. The job often demands attention to detail, the ability to follow instructions, and working in a fast-paced environment, but it is generally accessible to those with a high school diploma or equivalent. Difficulty varies based on individual skills and the complexity of the processes involved.
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Entry Level Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,984 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Process Operator

Hood Plywood

Beaumont, MS

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Hood Industries, Inc. is a blend of wood manufacturing and distribution concerns that include plywood and lumber manufacturing plants, and twenty-three specialty wood product distribution operations, located in fifteen states serving the northeast, southeast and southwest United States. 
 
Hood Plywood, a division of Hood Industries, Inc., is seeking entry-level Process Operators for our Beaumont, MS facility. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining automated equipment as well as following safety protocols and learning the specific machinery and processes of the company.
 
Key Responsibilities: 
 
•    Prepare machinery for daily use by inspecting for proper function and safety issues. 
•    Develop and maintain an understanding of machine center operating procedures.
•    Monitor operation of the machines to minimize unplanned down time.
•    Perform routine cleaning and minor maintenance on assigned machines.
•    Practice safe work habits to avoid injury to self and to other employees.
•    Report safety hazards within the work environment.
•    Load and unload materials, parts, or products as needed. 
•    Inspect finished products for defects and ensure they meet quality standards.
•    Maintain accurate records of production runs and machine performance.
•    Work effectively with other team members to achieve production goals.
•    Participate in training programs to enhance skills and knowledge.
•    Operate within company policies, guidelines, and regulatory requirements.
•    Support the implementation of reliability maintenance and continuous improvement culture across the facility. 
•    Additional supporting responsibilities as needed.
 
Education/Qualifications: 
 
•    High School Diploma or GED required.
•    Machine Operator experience preferred but not required.
•    Open to learning new skills and operating several types of equipment/machines.
 
Job Requirements:
 
•    Possess strong work ethic and commitment to safety.
•    Ability to perform basic math skills (reading measurements, etc.).
•    Ability to lift and carry materials up to 50 lbs.
•    Ability to work in a non-temperature-controlled environment.
•    Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
 
Skills Needed: 
 
•    Effective communication skills.
•    Critical thinking skills to troubleshoot potential issues.
•    Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
 
Salary: $19.06/per hour
 
Additional Information:
 
Hood Industries offers a competitive salary and an excellent benefits package including medical, employee assistance program, dental, vision, 401(k), cancer, flexible spending accounts, life, and LTD, available first of the month following completion of one month of continuous full-time employment.
 
Hood Industries requires that applicants consent to a background check and a drug screen to continue in the selection process. All employment offers are contingent on meeting our background check standards and successful passing of the required drug test. If hired, you will be required to provide documentation indicating your legal right to work in the U.S.
 
An Equal Opportunity Employer