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Entry Level Process Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Process Operator information

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

As of Sep 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 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.

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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,371 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Production Operator I - Packaging, 3rd Shift (D1272)

Decatur, AR • On-site

Wellness Pet Company
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Wellness Pet Companyexternal

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

**This position is 3rd Shift: Monday - Friday 10:00 PM - 6:30 AM**

Location: Decatur, AR – Manufacturing Plant

About the Wellness Pet Company

The Wellness Pet Company is on a mission to help the next generation of pet parents fulfill a shared life of wellbeing with their pets through a foundation of proven nutrition. We are committed to crafting high-quality pet food, dental chews, treats, and topper recipes that are made with the perfect balance of high-quality natural ingredients paired with the latest scientific research and technologies. As a community of people working together, Wellies are positively obsessed with how to deliver proven health outcomes that pet parents can see and pets can taste. Wellies bring their best to work every day, come ready to collaborate, embrace the hard things, and own their outcomes.

Who We’re Looking For

Team Wellie is a group of people who are truly obsessed with all the best ways about winning for the consumer and the pets they love. And so, we are seeking an individual who:

  • Always starts with the consumer

  • Is dedicated to doing it right the first time

  • Brings their best every day

  • Has an “all-in” mindset

  • Embraces the hard things and does them right away

  • Owns their outcomes

  • Gives back to their community

What You’ll Accomplish

The Production Operator position is involved in all aspects of the production of our premium pet food. They are responsible for setting-up, operating, and disassembling processing equipment in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). They will operate multiple types of processing equipment, including but not limited to extrusion, injection molding, dryers, cutting, and packaging machinery according to scheduled production needs. In addition, operators maintain their assigned production area, following safety procedures and cleanliness standards. The operator will also troubleshoot equipment issues and complete required food safety checks to ensure first-time right production.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

  • Sets-up, operates and disassembles processing equipment in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) according to production schedule.
  • Troubleshoots equipment as needed.
  • Monitors product, completing various checks to ensure product is running according to job specifications.
  • Reviews and follows production schedule throughout shift.
  • Adjusts equipment during product changeovers.
  • Checks and documents product according to SOPs to ensure the highest quality standards.
  • Cleans work area according to sanitation SOPs. Maintains cleanliness throughout work shift.
  • Monitors equipment and uses various tools to make adjustments, small repairs and perform basic maintenance as required.
  • Completes re-work as necessary.
  • Maintains records and logs within designated production system during entire production process
  • Performs and documents in-process quality checks on a periodic basis on representative samples to ensure that product is correctly produced/packaged.
  • Cleans, disassembles and reassembles line equipment to prepare machines for inspection and/or deep cleaning.
  • Changeover/sets up machine for run by loading product, components, printer material, etc.; adjusting settings; checking the line; and obtaining line clearance to prepare equipment for next run.
  • Actively follows safety procedures and policies in all job tasks.
  • Follows and holds others accountable for following all company GMPs.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Workplace Safety

  • Completes safety system documentation and verifies compliance to program standards. Reports deviations to Supervisor.
  • Participates in mandatory safety training and adheres to all safety policies/procedures.
  • Reports all safety issues, near misses, and injuries.

Quality & Food Safety

  • Completes quality & food safety system documentation and verifies compliance to program standards. Reports deviations to Supervisor.
  • Participates in mandatory food safety and quality training program requirements.
  • Preserves the integrity of the BRC system through adherence to the policies and procedures outlined.
  • Takes actions necessary to resolve food safety and quality system deficiencies.
  • Reports food safety and quality system failures and takes actions necessary to preserve the BRC system.

Career Growth Opportunities

At Wellness Pet, we want our Wellies to progress in their careers, gaining knowledge and skills that prepare them for the next level. There are four levels of Production Operators, so as you gain skills you can advance to earn higher pay and take on more responsibility.

Production Operator I:

  • Entry-level position requiring limited or no prior experience.
  • Responsible for performing basic production tasks under direct supervision.
  • Follows standard operating procedures and instructions closely.
  • Operates simple machinery or equipment and performs routine assembly tasks.
  • Assists with material handling, cleaning work areas, and basic quality control checks.
  • Focuses on learning and acquiring the necessary skills for production operations.

Production Operator II:

  • Mid-level position requiring some experience and demonstrated proficiency.
  • Performs more complex production tasks and operates intermediate-level machinery or equipment.
  • Follows established procedures but may have some autonomy and decision-making authority.
  • Conducts setup, calibration, and minor troubleshooting of equipment.
  • Assists in training and providing guidance to less experienced operators.
  • Contributes to process improvement initiatives and may participate in problem-solving activities.

Production Operator III:

  • Senior-level position requiring extensive experience and advanced technical skills.
  • Responsible for performing complex production tasks and operating advanced machinery or equipment.
  • Exhibits a high level of independence and may have authority over process adjustments and decisions.
  • Conducts detailed setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance of equipment.
  • Monitors production performance, quality control, and process optimization.
  • May assist in training, mentoring, or supervising junior operators.

Production Operator Lead:

  • Leadership position overseeing a team of production process.
  • Manages and coordinates the activities of the production team.
  • Provides guidance, training, and support to operators.
  • Monitors production schedules, assigns tasks, and ensures targets are met.
  • Acts as a liaison between management and the production team.
  • Collaborates with other departments to resolve issues and drive process improvements.
  • May be responsible for training programs and enforcing safety protocols.
  • Possesses strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Who We’re Looking For

Team Wellie is a group of people who are truly obsessed in all the best ways about winning for the consumer and the pets they love. And so we are seeking an individual who:

  • Is consumer focused in all they do
  • Continually challenges themselves to go the extra mile to get the job done, and ensures it’s done the right way as opposed to the easy way
  • Hold themselves and others accountable
  • Embraces continual development through the sharing of feedback and investment in learning opportunities.
  • Is a true collaborator, sharing resources, and engaging in healthy debate
  • Celebrates differences and strives to learn from others who are different from themselves
  • Gives back to their community and supports sustainable practices
  • Has the ability to lift 35 – 50 pounds
  • Has previous experience working with packaging systems and conveying equipment
  • Previously worked in production environment, preferably food or beverage manufacturing

Why Work for Wellness Pet

We care about the wellbeing of our people, their families, and their pets. We treat every Wellie to a comprehensive benefits package full of extras to support their health, pets, passions, and professional Development. More information about our benefits can be found on our website.

The Wellness Pet Company is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, or veteran status.

Ready to leash up and take a walk with us? Apply at https://www.wellnesspet.com/careers/

The Wellness Pet Company is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, or Veteran status.

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