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Junior Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Junior Operator

Arab, AL ยท On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

About you and this role Dow is seeking some new Junior Operators to help support our facility in Arab, AL . The purpose of this job is to operate assigned equipment or areas of the plant and perform ...

Position Purpose The Jr. Operator is responsible for performing physical movement of raw materials and finished product. Responsible for collaborating with Production Team to move material and ...

Junior Operator 1st Shift

Fairfield, OH

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Position Purpose The Jr. Operator is responsible for performing physical movement of raw materials and finished product. Responsible for collaborating with Production Team to move material and ...

Junior Operator 1st Shift PT

Fairfield, OH ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Position Purpose The Jr. Operator is responsible for performing physical movement of raw materials and finished product. Responsible for collaborating with Production Team to move material and ...

Position Purpose The Jr. Operator is responsible for performing physical movement of raw materials and finished product. Responsible for collaborating with Production Team to move material and ...

Junior Operator 3rd Shift PT

Fairfield, OH ยท On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

Position Purpose The Jr. Operator is responsible for performing physical movement of raw materials and finished product. Responsible for collaborating with Production Team to move material and ...

Position Purpose The Jr. Operator is responsible for performing physical movement of raw materials and finished product. Responsible for collaborating with Production Team to move material and ...

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Junior Operator information

See salary details

$22.5K

$72.5K

$124K

How much do junior operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior operator in the United States is $72,482.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $84,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior operator?

Junior Operators are entry-level professionals who assist in the operation and maintenance of machines, equipment, or production processes within industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, or utilities. They typically work under the supervision of senior operators, performing tasks like monitoring equipment, reporting issues, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. Junior Operators play a crucial role in keeping production lines running smoothly and efficiently while gaining hands-on experience and training for more advanced roles in the future.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Operator, you typically need a high school diploma, basic mechanical aptitude, and a solid understanding of safety protocols. Familiarity with industrial machinery, control panels, and tools such as PLCs or SCADA systems is often required, along with any relevant safety certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and accurate operation of equipment in manufacturing or production environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a junior operator in their first year, and how can they be overcome?

Junior Operators often encounter challenges such as learning to operate new machinery, adapting to shift work, and understanding complex safety procedures. It's common to feel overwhelmed at first, but seeking guidance from experienced colleagues and actively participating in on-the-job training can help ease the transition. Building strong communication with team members and supervisors is key to quickly resolving issues and developing confidence in your role. Staying proactive in asking questions and reviewing operational manuals will also support your growth as you gain hands-on experience.

What is the difference between Junior Operator vs Machine Operator?

AspectJunior OperatorMachine Operator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic trainingHigh school diploma, technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised settingsManufacturing or industrial settings, more autonomous
Employer UsageTraining role, developmental positionSkilled role, responsible for operating machinery
Common Search IntentEntry-level, training, beginnerOperational, machinery handling, skilled work

The main difference between a Junior Operator and a Machine Operator lies in experience and responsibility. Junior Operators are typically entry-level, focusing on learning and assisting, while Machine Operators are more experienced, responsible for operating and maintaining machinery independently.

How much is the salary of a junior operator?

The salary of a junior operator typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of this range, with opportunities for advancement and increased pay as skills and certifications develop.
More about Junior Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Junior Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Junior Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Junior Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Junior Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Junior Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,482 per year, or $34.8 per hour.

Junior Operator

Arab, AL โ€ข On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

At Dow, we believe in putting people first and we're passionate about delivering integrity, respect and safety to our customers, our employees and the planet.

Our people are at the heart of our solutions. They reflect the communities we live in and the world where we do business. Their diversity is our strength. We're a community of relentless problem solvers that offers the daily opportunity to contribute with your perspective, transform industries and shape the future. Our purpose is simple - to deliver a sustainable future for the world through science and collaboration.If you're looking for a challenge and meaningful role, you're in the right place.

About you and this role

Dow is seeking some new Junior Operators to help support our facility in Arab, AL. The purpose of this job is to operate assigned equipment or areas of the plant and perform operations related activities per the work process. You will utilize process knowledge and experience to operate and troubleshoot the plant in a safe and efficient manner, and work in a team environment where individuals often set priorities and complete work activities. This is a 24-hour operation and will require the ability to work 12-hour shifts during the day and at night on a rotating basis.

Responsibilities
  • Follow Operating Discipline principles, procedures and practices to ensure safe and efficient operation of assigned plant areas.
  • Operate and field check process equipment.
  • Monitor process conditions, equipment and control systems.
  • Perform tasks assigned to operations as per a standard task list including field checks, equipment preparation, samples, etc.
  • Ensure operational activities and process performance are aligned with plant and business goals.
  • Use troubleshooting skills to resolve process related deviations and problems and maintain equipment reliability.
  • Initiate and participate in Root Cause Investigations as required.
  • Coach and train others on plant operations.
  • Perform immediate response activities and manage unplanned events.
  • Use process knowledge and skills to make improvements in plant performance and Operating Discipline.
  • Use measurements and tools to operate the Plant at optimum conditions.
  • Perform process equipment troubleshooting, minor repairs, improvements and preventative maintenance, utilizing appropriate processes and disciplines.
  • Manage multiple and complex plant computer control systems.
  • Perform all duties with a high degree of dedication to safety and environmental stewardship.
  • Operate a forklift/fork truck.
  • Utilize Microsoft Office and other digital tools and processes to complete daily work.
Required Qualifications
  • A minimum of a High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Able to work 12-hour rotating shifts, overtime, holidays, nights and weekends as required.
  • Have a current, valid US driver's license.
  • A minimum requirement for this U.S. based position is the ability to work legally in the United States. No visa sponsorship/support is available for this position, including for any type of U.S. permanent residency (green card) process.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Associates degree or higher in Process Technology (or related degree).
  • 3 or more years of relevant military experience.
  • 3 or more years of relevant experience preferred.
Your Skills
  • Manufacturing Processes: Ability to follow a sequence of steps, involving multiple unit operations, that transform one or more materials into new substances with different properties.
  • Risk Awareness: Ability to recognize and understand potential risks. Identify, assess or manage risk to minimize negative outcomes and enhance safety and efficiency.
  • Team Collaboration: Works closely with Logistics, Operations, Customer Service, and fellow clerks to maintain smooth workflows and build positive team chemistry.
  • Process & Equipment Monitoring: Supports plant operations by conducting field checks, adjusting control systems, and ensuring safe and efficient handling of materials.
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Strong understanding of mechanical principles with the ability to trouble shoot and solve mechanical and operational problems efficiently.
  • Hazard Mitigation: Ability to identify manufacturing hazards and the safeguards to apply to prevent injuries and releases.
  • Physical & Safety Readiness: Meets physical demands such as lifting, climbing, and working at heights while adhering to safety protocols and PPE requirements.
Physical Demands

Able to meet the following physical demands of the job, with or without reasonableaccommodation.

  • Lift, push, and pull. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. of weight.
  • Frequent bending, reaching, and lifting.
  • Stand and walk for extended periods of time.
  • Work at heights, climb stairs and ladders.
  • Work in tight and closed in spaces.
  • Must be able to wear and use personal protective equipment (PPE), including but not limited to respirator and harnesses with a total weight capacity of 300lbs.
  • Work in an area of intense or continuous noise.
  • Work in an area with hazardous materials.
  • Handle material from drums and bags.
  • This role does involve elevated work greater than or equal to four feet above the ground.

Additional notes

  • This position does not offer relocation assistance.

Benefits - What Dow offers you

We invest in you.

Dow invests in total rewards programs to help you manage all aspects of you: your pay, your health, your life, your future, and your career.You bring your background, talent, and perspective to work every day. Dow rewards that commitment by investing in your total wellbeing.

Here are just a few highlights of what you would be offered as a Dow employee:

  • Equitable and market-competitive base pay and bonus opportunity across our global markets, along with locally relevant incentives.
  • Benefits and programs to support your physical, mental, financial, and social well-being, to help you get the care you need...when you need it.
  • Competitive retirement program that may include company-provided benefits, savings opportunities, financial planning, and educational resources to help you achieve your long term financial-goals.
    • Employee stock purchase programs (availability varies depending on location).
  • Student Debt Retirement Savings Match Program (U.S. only).
    • Dow will take the value of monthly student debt payments and apply them as if they are contributions to the Employees' Savings Plan (401(k)), helping employees reach the Company match.
  • Robust medical and life insurance packages that offer a variety of coverage options to meet your individual needs. Travel insurance is also available in certain countries/locations.
  • Opportunities to learn and grow through training and mentoring, work experiences, community involvement and team building.
  • Workplace culture empowering role-based flexibility to maximize personal productivity and balance personal needs.
  • Competitive yearly vacation allowance.
  • Paid time off for new parents (birthing and non-birthing, including adoptive and foster parents).
  • Paid time off to care for family members who are sick or injured.
  • Paid time off to support volunteering and Employee Resource Group's (ERG) participation.
  • Wellbeing Portal for all Dow employees, our one-stop shop to promote wellbeing, empowering employees to take ownership of their entire wellbeing journey.
  • On-site fitness facilities to help stay healthy and active (availability varies depending on location).
  • Employee discounts for online shopping, cinema tickets, gym memberships and more.
  • Additionally, some of our locations might offer:
    • Transportation allowance (availability varies depending on location)
    • Meal subsidiaries/vouchers (availability varies depending on location)
    • Carbon-neutral transportation incentives e.g. bike to work (availability varies depending on location)

Join our team, we can make a difference together.

About Dow
Dow (NYSE: DOW) is one of the world's leading materials science companies, serving customers in high-growth markets such as packaging, infrastructure, mobility and consumer applications.Our global breadth, asset integration and scale, focused innovation, leading business positions and commitment to sustainability enable us to achieve profitable growth and help deliver a sustainable future. We operate manufacturing sites in 30countries and employ approximately36,000 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately$43 billionin 2024. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc. and its subsidiaries. Learn more about us and our ambition to be the most innovative, customer-centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company in the world by visitingwww.dow.com.

As part of our dedication to inclusion, Dow is committed to equal opportunities in employment. We encourage every employee to bring their whole self to work each day to not only deliver more value, but also have a more fulfilling career. Further information regarding Dow's equal opportunities is available on www.dow.com.

Dow is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and is committed to providing opportunities without regard for race, color, religion, sex, including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity, national origin, age, disability and genetic information, including family medical history. We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may call us at 1-833-My Dow HR (833-693-6947) and select option 8.