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Entry Level Process Operator Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

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Entry Level Process Operator information

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$12

$18

$26

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level process operator in Baton Rouge, LA is $18.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $19.66 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA? For Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:
What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Entry Level Process Operator jobs? Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Entry Level Process Operator job openings:
Entry Level Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Operator job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,507 per year, or $18 per hour.
Associate Instrumentation / Controls Engineer (Entry-Level)

Associate Instrumentation / Controls Engineer (Entry-Level)

J H Operating Company LLC

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

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Job description

Associate Instrumentation / Controls Engineer (Entry-Level)

 

About Us
Recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Baton Rouge, J H Operating Company, LLC is an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management (EPCm) firm supporting upstream and midstream oil and gas projects across the U.S. We’re looking for a new graduate or early-career engineer to join our Baton Rouge team as an Associate Instrumentation / Controls Engineer.

This role is for someone excited to start their engineering career and gain hands-on exposure to instrumentation and controls projects in the oil & gas industry. You’ll work directly with experienced engineers and project managers, building your skills from the ground up.

What You’ll Learn & Do

Automation & Controls Exposure

  • Participate in P&ID reviews to understand instrumentation and controls design considerations.
  • Assist with Cause & Effect reviews and learn how control logic is applied in real projects.
  • Support creation and review of instrument lists and learn specification basics.
  • Gain exposure to instrument specifications and participate in the purchasing process.
  • Help review and develop control narratives under senior mentorship.
  • Learn to read and support the design of automation drawings.
  • Assist with PLC and UPS specification and purchasing.
  • Auditing point-to-point connections between SCADA management system and field discrete instruments to ensure system functionality.

Field & Project Experience

  • Support commissioning and start-up activities, including Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR).
  • Participate in site visits for troubleshooting, vendor inspections, and construction support (approx. 15% travel).
  • Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to understand the project lifecycle.

Growth Path

  • As you mature in the role, you’ll progress to:
    • Taking ownership of automation design tasks.
    • Working directly with integration vendors on project execution.
    • Leading small scopes of work independently.

Qualifications

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Controls, Mechanical, or related Engineering discipline.
  • Internship, co-op, or academic project experience in automation, instrumentation, or controls is a plus.
  • Eagerness to learn PLC programming, SCADA systems, and oil & gas process controls.
  • Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Must be legally allowed to operate a motor vehicle and able to pass drug screening.

J H Operating Company, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, citizenship, gender, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or veteran status.

Company Description

J H Operating Company offers engineers, designers, and project professionals the opportunity to work on real oil and gas facility projects with direct impact. JH operates as an owner-focused EPCm firm, meaning teams are involved early, make practical decisions, and see projects through from concept to construction and commissioning.
Employees at JH work in small, highly capable teams where individual contributions matter. The company emphasises technical competence, accountability, and transparency, giving team members visibility into how projects are planned, executed, and delivered.
JH supports professional growth by exposing employees to multiple disciplines, project phases, and client interactions. The organization values efficiency, problem-solving, and ownership, creating an environment where people who want responsibility and hands-on experience can grow quickly.