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Entry Level Process Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Entergy

Maintenance Operator I-III

Osceola, AR

$17.50 - $23/hr

Maintenance Operator I-III Work Place Flexibility: Onsite Legal Entity: Entergy Arkansas, LLC ... entry level with a background in process technology or instrumentation * MO III: 2-3 years of ...

Onin Staffing

Machine Operator

Walnut Ridge, AR

$16/hr

... entry-level candidates - Affordable health insurance you can actually use, including $5 copays, $5 ... Sectors like manufacturing, food processing, warehousing, packaging and hospitality, if done right ...

Weyerhauser Co

Entry Level Production Associate

Dierks, AR · On-site

$19.41/hr

The entry level starting rate of pay is $19.41 per hour . All open positions are on the night shift ... operating equipment in assigned area. * Feeding or placing items onto equipment for processing or ...

KEYTRONIC CORPORATION

Operator 1 (AR)

Springdale, AR · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Position requires knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. This position will ...

Keytronic

Operator 1 (AR)

Springdale, AR

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Position requires knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods. This position will ...

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Entry Level Process Operator information

See Arkansas salary details

$11

$17

$25

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

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level process operator in Arkansas is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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.

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.

Is it hard to be a process operator?

Becoming a process operator typically requires technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow safety protocols. The job involves monitoring equipment, troubleshooting issues, and working in a fast-paced environment, which can be challenging for some but is manageable with proper training and experience.

How to become a process operator with no experience?

To become a process operator with no experience, focus on gaining relevant skills such as understanding industrial equipment and safety procedures, often through on-the-job training or technical programs. Entry-level positions may require a high school diploma or equivalent, and obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training can improve your chances. Some employers offer training programs for new hires to develop necessary skills on the job.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Entry-level process operator roles in industries like manufacturing or oil and gas can pay around $4,000 per week with experience and overtime. These jobs often require technical skills, safety certifications, and the ability to work in shifts or hazardous environments.

Where do process operators make the most money?

Process operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong manufacturing or energy sector, such as areas with oil and gas, chemical plants, or large industrial facilities. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in hazardous environments can also increase earning potential.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Arkansas? For Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Arkansas look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Arkansas are:
Entry Level Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Operator job openings in Arkansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 13% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,371 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Maintenance Operator I-III

Maintenance Operator I-III

Entergy

Osceola, AR

$17.50 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Entergy rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 52 rated energy and utility

Job description

Job Title: Maintenance Operator I-III

Work Place Flexibility: Onsite 

Legal Entity: Entergy Arkansas, LLC 

** Positions can be filled by a Maintenance Operator 1, Maintenance Operator 2, or Maintenance Operator 3 based on the experience and qualifications of the selected candidates. **

Job Summary/Purpose

Under general supervision, the incumbent will be responsible to Understand and Maintain a Good Working Knowledge of the various Power Plant Technical Systems. Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to, performing highly complex instrumentation, electrical, and mechanical work involved in the inspection, troubleshooting, repair, installation, testing, adjustment and calibration of instrumentation and electrical equipment (e.g. meters and instruments, automatic combustion control equipment, regulating devices). 

Job Duties/Responsibilities

1. Troubleshoot, identify, maintain, and make repairs to power plant equipment. Perform Lockout/Tag out of equipment for maintenance work following the Fossil Tagging Procedure. 

2.  Specific knowledge and use of mechanical measuring devices, instruments, controls, regulating devices, and electrical equipment used in power plants. 

3.  Be familiar with principles of operation and function of steam boilers, turbo generators, pumps, heaters, steam traps, piping systems, pressure and level regulators and their controls, electrical distribution systems, and balance of plant systems. 

4.  Comply with all Fossil Safety Procedures and Policies. 

5.  Step-up to Temporary Supervisor or Contract Administrator position with responsibility for other employees and/or contractors. 

6.  Be available to work overtime as needed. Be willing to work under unusual as well as normal working conditions pertaining to a power plant environment. 

7. Uses elementary principles of mechanical measuring devices, instruments, controls, and regulating devices as used in generating plants. Troubleshoot, identify, and make repairs to the plant equipment including performing preventative maintenance tasks. 

8. Perform water chemistry analysis on the boiler makeup water system to ensure water chemistry is within proper control ranges.  Make adjustments to water chemistry, as needed, by controlling chemical feed and/or blow down rates.  Work with Operations and water treatment vendor to properly monitor overall chemistry program. 

9. Installs new control system equipment as required.  Properly uses electrical and control system specific test equipment and other similar tools. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:


Minimum education required of the position

  • High school diploma
  • Desired: Process Technology/instrumentation college degree or equivalent work experience


Minimum experience required of the position

  • MO I-II: 0-2 years of experience in an operations or similar field or entry level with a background in process technology or instrumentation
  • MO III:  2-3 years of experience in an operations or similar field or entry level with a background in process technology or instrumentation


Minimum knowledge, skills and abilities required of the position

  • Knowledge of the elementary principles of mechanical measuring devices, instruments, controls, and regulating devices as used in steam electric plants
  • Knowledge of the principles of operation and function of steam boilers, turbo-generators, pumps, heaters, steam traps, piping systems, pressure and level regulators and their controls, and auxiliary systems.

  • Knowledge and demonstrated capabilities in the diagnoses and repair of instrument and control system malfunctions including: transmitters, gauges, switches, control valves, pneumatic actuators, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), plant or distributive control systems, instrument loops, flow meters, pressure probes, temperature probes, level probes, current meter, voltage meter, watt meter, digital recorders, and computers 

  • Proficient in the installation of instrumentation tubing including bending, cutting, and Swagelok fittings. Knowledge of fiber optic troubleshooting, terminations, and splicing.  Understanding of elementary electrical drawings, wiring diagrams, process and instrumentation diagrams, flow diagrams, and general layout drawings. 

  • Knowledge and demonstrated capabilities in the diagnosis and repair of electrical systems, including breakers, motor starters, motors, switchgear, and motor control centers. 

  • Proficient in the installation of electrical systems including conduit bending and cutting, installing panels, junction boxes, terminal strips, and termination of connections.  

  • The ability to lift 100lbs. The ability to lift and carry 50lbs. 

  • The ability to climb scaffolds, stairs and ladders. 

  • Must be Team Oriented and Self-Motivated. Must possess the initiative to perform task independently, provide timely and concise feedback upon request. Possess a winning attitude to achieve Departmental, Plant and Corporate Goals. 

  • Should possess basic computer knowledge to obtain the required skills needed to use the Entergy Fossil Applications Time and Labor (Electronic Timesheet Application) and AIMM (Maintenance Management System). Knowledge of the elementary principles of mechanical measuring devices, instruments, controls, and regulating devices as used in steam electric plants. 


Any certificates, licenses, etc. required for the position

  • Successful completion of the EEI POSS/MASS test


WORKING CONDITIONS:
As a provider of essential services, Entergy expects its employees to be available to work additional hours, to work in alternate locations, and/or to perform additional duties in connection with storms, outages, emergencies, or other situations as deemed necessary by the company. Exempt employees may not be paid overtime associated with such duties.

#LI-DNI

Primary Location: Arkansas-Osceola Louisiana : Westwego 
Job Function: Field & Skilled Trade
FLSA Status: Non Exempt 
Relocation Option: No Relocation Offered
Union description/code:  
Number of Openings: 1
Req ID: 123086
Travel Percentage:Up to 25%

An Equal Opportunity Employer, Minority/Female/Disability/Vets. Please click here to view the EEO page, or see statements below.

EEO Statement: The Entergy System of Companies provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. The Entergy System of Companies complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. 
The Entergy System of Companies expressly prohibits any form of unlawful employee harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of the Entergy System of Company employees to perform their expected job duties is absolutely not tolerated.

Accessibility: Entergy provides reasonable accommodations for online applicants. Requests for a reasonable accommodation may be made orally or in writing by an applicant, employee, or third party on his or her behalf. If you are an individual with a disability and you are in need of an accommodation for the recruiting process please click here and provide your name, contact number, the accommodation requested and the requisition number that you are requesting the accommodation for. Employee Services will contact you regarding your request.

Additional Responsibilities: As a provider of essential services, Entergy expects its employees to be available to work additional hours, to work in alternate locations, and/or to perform additional duties in connection with storms, outages, emergencies, or other situations as deemed necessary by the company. Exempt employees may not be paid overtime associated with such duties.

 Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal

The non-confidential portions of the affirmative action program for individuals with disabilities and protected veterans shall be available for inspection upon request by any employee or applicant for employment.  Please contact HRCompliance@entergy.com to schedule a time to review the affirmative action plan during regular office hours.

EEI Testing:

One way that Entergy has found to identify and assess the abilities and skills needed for certain jobs is through pre-employment testing. If this position does require an EEI test, the type of test will be located under the qualifications section of the job posting. If you are invited to a test session, we strongly recommend you review and complete the practice test as well as review the testing brochure for your respective test.  The test brochure will give you critical information on the test such as time allocated and number of questions.  Also, keep in mind that the actual test is timed; you should practice timing yourself while doing the practice tests. The practice test information and test brochures can be located by going to the EEI website, http://www.eei.org/practicetests, Logon ID:  entergy, password:  practice test (2 words). Travel expenses incurred in connection with EEI testing are non-reimbursable.

In addition to EEI testing there is also Fit-for-Duty testing which will identify and assess the abilities and skills needed for certain jobs. If this position does require Fit-for-Duty testing, the type of test will be located under the qualifications section of the job posting.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
As a provider of essential services, Entergy expects its employees to be available to work additional hours, to work in alternate locations, and/or to perform additional duties in connection with storms, outages, emergencies, or other situations as deemed necessary by the company. Exempt employees may not be paid overtime associated with such duties.

Please note: Authorization to work in the United States is a precondition to employment in this position. Entergy will not sponsor candidates for work visas for this position.

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