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Entry Level Process Operator Jobs in Raleigh, NC

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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 Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level process operator in Raleigh, NC is $20.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $22.45 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 operator?

An entry-level process operator is a worker responsible for monitoring and controlling industrial equipment and production processes. They typically perform routine tasks, follow safety protocols, and may require basic technical skills or certifications such as OSHA training. This role often serves as a starting point for a career in manufacturing or processing industries.

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.

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. Many employers offer entry-level positions that provide training, and obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training can improve your chances of starting in this role.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Entry level process operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily wages are usually associated with specialized roles, high-level management, or jobs requiring extensive experience, certifications, or working in high-paying industries like oil and gas, finance, or consulting. Most entry-level positions pay hourly wages that amount to significantly less than $2000 daily, even with overtime or shift differentials.

Is a process operator a hard job?

A process operator job involves monitoring and controlling industrial equipment, which can be physically demanding and requires attention to safety protocols. The role often involves shift work, working in noisy environments, and handling complex machinery, making it challenging for some individuals. However, with proper training and adherence to procedures, it is manageable for those with technical aptitude and focus.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Process Operator jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Hazmat Control Operator - Yard Worker (2-2-3 Shift)

Hazmat Control Operator - Yard Worker (2-2-3 Shift)

Novo Nordisk

Clayton, NC • On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Novo Nordisk rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 71 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

About the Department

At Novo Nordisk, we are helping to improve the quality of life for millions of people worldwide. For more than 100 years, we have led the way in diabetes care. Being part of Novo Nordisk allows our employees to embark on the opportunity to help improve the quality of life for millions of people around the world.

In NC, we operate three pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities that are responsible for fulfilling different steps in our injectable and oral treatment supply chains.  Our newer Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) facility in Clayton, NC sits on 825,000 square-feet of state-of-the-art equipment, and houses the Fermentation, Recovery and Purification in the production of ingredients for Novo Nordisk's innovative oral products.  At API, you'll join a global network of manufacturing professionals who are passionate about what they do.  

What we offer you:

  • Leading pay and annual performance bonus for all positions
  • All employees enjoy generous paid time off including 14 paid holidays
  • Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance - effective day one
  • Guaranteed 8% 401K contribution plus individual company match option
  • Family Focused Benefits including 14 weeks paid parental & 6 weeks paid family medical leave
  • Free access to Novo Nordisk-marketed pharmaceutical products
  • Tuition Assistance 
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • Employee Referral Awards

At Novo Nordisk, you will find opportunities, resources, and mentorship to help grow and build your career.  Are you ready to realize your potential?  Join Team Novo Nordisk and help us make what matters.
 

The Position

Perform all aspects of truck & bulk liquid unloading to support all operations at our biotech manufacturing facility, including Raw Materials & Solvents, Utilities, Purification, Fermentation, Recovery & Warehouse operations. As part of a high performing work team, ensure bulk liquid (including solvents & raw materials) is delivered into API-US systems throughout the tank farm, utility belt & production receiving areas. Additionally, perform duties in SAP/ERP Inventory Control, including material put-away. This role will require working outdoors in adverse weather conditions in order to support loading/unloading of incoming/outgoing vehicles. Prior experience dealing with Hazardous Materials is a plus for this role.

This role will work a 2-2-3 schedule 6:30am-6:30pm.

Relationships

Reports to Manager, RMS & Utilities Operations.

Essential Functions

  • Loading & unloading product from trucks, tankers & ISO Containers
  • Operating pumps & valves; blending & mixing chemicals & products as needed during offloads
  • Handling, labelling & storage of hazardous & non-hazardous materials
  • Process material handling operations for hazardous materials in drum, pallet & IBC configurations
  • Ensure all material movements are performed timely & accurately in SAP/ERP
  • Visual & PH inspection on rainwater prior to pumping out containment areas on an as needed basis
  • Perform weekly PH probe calibrations utilizing MES/DeltaV
  • Replace solvent & boundary filters, based on planned maintenance schedules maintained in SAP
  • Partner with warehouse sampling operations in completion of tasks as appropriate
  • Daily inspections of the equipment used in offloading chemicals & materials
  • Adhering to all plant health, safety & environmental guidelines, policies & procedures
  • Keeping work area clean throughout shift
  • Maintain up to date training status
  • Work in a safe & environmentally responsible manner
  • Other accountabilities, as assigned

Qualifications

  • High School diploma/GED, required
  • AS degree in related field, or equivalent industrial, military, or vocational training to include a thorough understanding of mechanical, electrical & control systems, desired
  • HAZWOPER certification &/or relevant training, desired
  • Minimum of two (2) year of truck/bulk liquid unloading or warehousing or equivalent, preferably in a Regulatory Inspected Facility, GMP warehouse or pharmaceutical industry, required
  • Basic math skills, including knowledge of metric system, required
  • Computer competencies required, including basic Microsoft knowledge: Outlook & Word, preferred
  • Knowledge of SAP/ERP to include entry level Warehouse tasks, desired
  • Good written & verbal communication skills, required
  • Ability to read, write legibly & understand all department documentation, required
  • Training or experience demonstrating an understanding of risks inherent to processing, handling & storage of hazardous materials, preferred
  • Ability to operate stand-up & sit-down forklifts after applicable training & maintain appropriate licensure, preferred
  • Ability to drive non-CDL box truck or similar vehicle for movement of materials on site, required
  • Ability to navigate & operate MES & Delta V operating systems, preferred
  • Good organizational skills, preferred
  • Ability to execute a work plan & adapt to changes in schedule rapidly, preferred

Physical Requirements

Moves equipment &/or supplies weighing up to 33 pounds within the facility using various body positions. Routinely operates & inspects manufacturing equipment using hands. Strap & unstrap pallets using hands. Must be able to be on your feet for up to a 12-hour shift. May require corrected vision to 20/20 or 20/25 based on role. May require color vision based on role. Occasionally ascends/descends a ladder. May be required to work at elevated heights. Occasionally works around odorous &/or hazardous materials. May be required to wear latex gloves. May perform critical job functions in extremely cold work environments depending on site. May position oneself within confined spaces for inspection if required of the role. Ability to work in loud noise environments with hearing protection. May be required to secure a motorized vehicle license & operate a motorized vehicle based on the role.

We commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants.

At Novo Nordisk, we're not chasing quick fixes - we're creating lasting change for long-term health. For over 100 years, we've been driven by a single purpose: to defeat serious chronic diseases and help millions of people live healthier lives. This dedication fuels our constant curiosity and inspires us to push the boundaries of what's possible in healthcare. We embrace diverse perspectives, seek out bold ideas, and build partnerships rooted in shared purpose. Together, we're making healthcare more accessible, treating and defeating diseases, and pioneering solutions that create change spanning generations. When you join us, you become part of something bigger - a legacy of impact that reaches far beyond today.

Novo Nordisk is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by local, state or federal laws, rules or regulations.

If you are interested in applying to Novo Nordisk and need special assistance or an accommodation to apply, please call us at 1-855-411-5290. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.


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