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Entry Level Process Operator Jobs in Pennsylvania

Domtar

Entry Level Operator

Johnsonburg, PA · On-site

$70K/yr

Domtar is a leading producer of pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products has Entry Level ... Use of chemicals in the paper process (chlorine, chlorine dioxide, sulfur compounds and sulfuric ...

Domtar

Entry Level Operator

Johnsonburg, PA

$70K/yr

Domtar is a leading producer of pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products has Entry Level ... Use of chemicals in the paper process (chlorine, chlorine dioxide, sulfur compounds and sulfuric ...

MPP

Operator (2840)

Punxsutawney, PA

$15.50 - $18.75/hr

... process by operating machines, monitoring quality, and ensuring production goals are met in a safe and efficient manner. This is an entry-level General Production Operator position --no prior ...

Merit Industries

Machine Operator

Erie, PA

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Entry-Level Machine Operator / Machinist Merit Industries 2008 W. 16th St., Erie, PA 16505 Position ... in-process inspections using precision measuring tools (calipers, micrometers, gauges) to verify ...

MPP

Production- Operator (2827)

Falls Creek, PA

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

... process by operating machines, monitoring quality, and ensuring production goals are met in a safe and efficient manner. This is an entry-level General Production Operator position --no prior ...

Dunmore

Process Engineer I

Bristol, PA · On-site

This is an entry-level role ideal for a recent graduate or someone with internship or co-op ... Document process changes and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) * Collaborate with ...

Alleima

General Operator

Clarks Summit, PA · On-site

$21.85/hr

Clarks Summit, PA We are hiring Entry-Level General Operators to join our unionized manufacturing ... and processes. With curious employees and safety as our priority, we create a work environment ...

Synthomer

Chemical Operator

Jefferson Hills, PA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.25/hr

The Chemical Operator position is an entry-level position working in the manufacturing areas ... Able to operate complex equipment and processes using control panels, process control systems, and ...

Synthomer

Chemical Operator

Jefferson Hills, PA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.25/hr

The Chemical Operator position is an entry-level position working in the manufacturing areas ... Able to operate complex equipment and processes using control panels, process control systems, and ...

Ascensus Specialties

Chemical Operator

Evans City, PA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... entry level position responsible for performing all repetitive/routine tasks associated with daily production. Assigned operators can work in Alcoholates, Boranes, PPD, MOX and cylinder processing.

Ascensus Specialties

Chemical Operator

Evans City, PA

$20 - $24/hr

... entry level position responsible for performing all repetitive/routine tasks associated with daily production. Assigned operators can work in Alcoholates, Boranes, PPD, MOX and cylinder processing.

Ascensus Specialties

Chemical Operator

Evans City, PA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... entry level position responsible for performing all repetitive/routine tasks associated with daily production. Assigned operators can work in Alcoholates, Boranes, PPD, MOX and cylinder processing.

Alleima

General Operator

Clarks Summit, PA

$21.85/hr

Clarks Summit, PA We are hiring Entry-Level General Operators to join our unionized manufacturing ... and processes. With curious employees and safety as our priority, we create a work environment ...

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Entry Level Process Operator information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$14

$21

$31

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

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level process operator in Pennsylvania is $21.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.32 and $23.12 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Pennsylvania? For Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Pennsylvania are:
Entry Level Process Operator jobs near you
Entry Level Operator

Entry Level Operator

Domtar

Johnsonburg, PA • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Domtar rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

186th of 516 rated manufacturers

Job description

Domtar is a leading producer of pulp, paper, packaging, tissue and wood products has Entry Level Production positions available at our Johnsonburg Mill.
The Johnsonburg Mill manufactures uncoated freesheet paper used by customers to create brochures, direct mail, stationery, checks, envelopes, and hardbound books. Johnsonburg is a leader in environmental management and is certified by accredited forestry organizations. We are recognized as one of the most technologically advanced paper mills in the world.
We offer a career for motivated and skilled individuals with a safety mindset to operate our state-of-the-art equipment and systems. Our career progression provides opportunities to grow and develop your skills in the pulp and paper-making manufacturing technologies while increasing your earnings.
New employees typically can earn an average of $70,000 per year after three years of service to the Johnsonburg Mill. Domtar offers competitive benefits including health and life insurance, dental and vision coverage, a 401(k) with Company match, paid holidays, one week of vacation after 6 months and an additional week after 1 year of service, shift differential of a dollar per hour, and more.
Education/Experience Required
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Minimum of 2 years full time work experience or post-secondary education

Other Job Requirements
  • The Johnsonburg Mill is a heavy manufacturing environment, operating 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. All production employees must be able to work a rotating 12-hour shift schedule -- 7 days and 7 nights per month including holidays, and weekends as designated by the Crew schedule.
  • Demonstrating a strong commitment to safe work behaviors is a core principle and value that should never be compromised.
  • Employees must have mechanical aptitude, basic computer and math skills, decision-making and communication skills, as well as the ability to be flexible and work in a team environment.
  • Employees must be able to wear safety equipment, such as a hard hat, ear plugs, safety shoes, and safety glasses.
  • Employees must be able to climb ladders and high stairways/catwalks and climbing/descending ladders (e.g., during lockout or operational trouble shooting).
  • Other physical requirements include performing a range of motion in various positions. Walking and standing is required in an industrial setting for long periods of time.
  • The job requires physical endurance and the ability to work in a hot and humid environment
  • Employees must be willing and able to qualify to safely operate forklifts, lift trucks, and other motorized equipment.

The Domtar Johnsonburg Mill has "safety sensitive" duties in all Mill job classifications. The duties consist of:
  • Working at heights greater than four feet from ground level.
  • Use of chemicals in the paper process (chlorine, chlorine dioxide, sulfur compounds and sulfuric acid).
  • Operation of heavy machinery including overhead cranes and industrial trucks.
  • Massive weight and rolling of paper rolls.
  • Lock out / tag out procedures.

Workplace safety is a critically important part of all jobs. This requires everyone in the company to adhere to the safety guidelines and policies in place. Carefully following appropriate safety guidelines can go a long way toward preventing workplace injuries. This is a responsibility Domtar takes very seriously in protecting the health and welfare of the employees and their coworkers.
The pre-employment process includes computer-based aptitude testing and selection panel interviews and requires candidates to pass background check and drug screening to qualify for employment.
Domtar is an equal-opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to age, race, color, sex (including gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), marital status, religion, national origin, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. We are also committed to ensuring reasonable accommodations for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disability Act of 1990.
Once your application has been submitted, you will receive a confirmation email. If you are selected to interview, you will be contacted by a member of our Human Resources team.
To learn more about our company, consult the Domtar Company Web Site and follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter.

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