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Entry Level Process Operator Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

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

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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.
Operator 1 (AR)

Operator 1 (AR)

KEYTRONIC CORPORATION

Springdale, AR • On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Keytronic rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 142 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Keytronic is a team-based, supportive environment where everyone is able to feel encouraged and supported. We provide opportunities for growth through seminars, certifications, on-the-job training, and career advancement. Our team and employees are proud of our product diversity and team environment. We are an international company where you will do something different every day in our fast-paced work environment, but we are always finding ways to create something new and be innovative
We encourage you to apply for this position if you enjoy being challenged, working in a dynamic work setting, and being a part of a team that creates products that drive our world, while providing an innovative workplace with deep camaraderie, compelling product diversity, and resources to build your career.
Keytronic provides competitive salaries and benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation, Holidays, Tuition Reimbursement, and 401K. We also have a company provided wellness program because we care about the wellbeing of our employees inside and outside of the workplace. We organize volunteer opportunities, company activities, and all-employee meetings to show we value our employees and the community around us!
JOB SUMMARY: This position will provide assembly support for the Operations and will support the new product introduction (NPI) process. 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 be able to assist in packing, assembly, prep, build line, and testing.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)
  • Under general supervision will perform assigned manufacturing function that will support the production process while maintain cost objective and meeting quality standards.
  • Prep all components base on production aids and/or other aids.
  • Ability to place assembled boards in packing box per work instructions
  • Assemble electrical or electronic systems and support structures; and install components, units, subassemblies, wiring, and assembly casings, using rivets, bolts, soldering and micro-welding equipment.
  • Adjust, repair, or replace electrical or electronic component parts to correct defects and to ensure conformance to specifications.
  • Installs hardware on boards, taping, masking, and installing components. Ensuring proper quality after the board has been through the applicable process as indicated by the production aids/work instructions.
  • Set up each kit for any given build line as indicated by the production aids/work instructions. The position also involves all/some of the following: pulling KanBan parts, re-filling of bins on the build line, requisitioning parts to fill shortages, use of the AS400 computer system, as well as identification of raw components/polarity, etc.
  • Responsible to check for proper solder quality as well as complete any repairs.
  • Ability to read and interpret drawings, diagrams, blueprints, specifications, work orders, and reports in order to determine materials requirements and assembly instructions.
  • Will inspect and test products throughout the manufacturing process to ensure quality is maintained throughout the production process.
  • Will confer with engineering, managers, production supervisors, and leads to plan and review work activities and resolve any issues with the NPI process. Will seek clarification and direction on any questions with drawings, or other documents.
  • Will assist and perform routine root cause analysis and troubleshooting on the production line in order to efficiently and cost effectively improve the production process.

OTHER FUNCTIONS:
  • Ability to operate various types of assembly and equipment to support the production process.
  • May be assigned other duties that will directly or indirectly support the Operations department.

SUPERVISION GIVEN/RECEIVED
This position does not have any supervision responsibility and is supervised by both a designated lead and supervisor, or other designee determined by the Manager of Manufacturing.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Demonstrated organizational skills, with the ability to handle and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously in a timely manner in a fast-paced environment.
  • Sound written and oral communication skills; must be able to write and understand routine reports, follow oral and written instructions, and speak effectively.
  • Strong interpersonal skills; ability to relate to and work with diverse groups of people.
  • Must have a high level of interpersonal skills to handle sensitive and confidential situations and materials. Position continually requires demonstrated poise, tact and diplomacy.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Lean Six Sigma trained.
  • IPC Certification.
  • Experience in mechanical or electronic assembly.
  • Knowledge of use and operation of standard office equipment and be familiar with commonly used email, Internet, word processing, databases and spreadsheets.
  • One plus years experience in surface mount technology soldering or hand soldering.
  • Experience in Contract Manufacturing and EMS industry desired with an emphasis in supporting an offshore manufacturing facility.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The employee is regularly required to sit; use hands and fingers, handle or feel objects, talk, hear, and see. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, stand, walk, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, or reach with hands and arms. The environment is fast-paced; time pressured, and requires accuracy. The employee will regularly multi-task between projects, be required to move throughout the office building, and effectively communicate. The normal environment is quiet and typical of an open cubical setting with some areas that may be louder at times.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: While performing the duties of this job, the employee occasionally works near moving mechanical parts, and is exposed to fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
The statements on this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by incumbents. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required by all incumbents, and all job descriptions are subject to change to accommodate business necessity. In support of Keytronic's goals some incumbents may perform other duties as assigned. In addition, all Keytronic employees are expected to:
  • Promote teamwork and cooperative effort
  • Help train and give guidance to other Keytronic employees
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and unobstructed work area
  • Provide customers with the highest quality of products and service
  • Understand and apply appropriate quality improvement processes

Keytronic is an EOE/M/W/VET/Disabilities employer.

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