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Lead Chemical Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Estron Chemical

Chemical Operator I

Calvert City, KY

$21.12/hr

Provide back up for the Lead Chemical Operator. Required Qualifications * High school degree * Ability to lift heavy objects * Safety training, environmental training, and ISO 9000 training * Must be ...

Estron Chemical

Chemical Operator I

Calvert City, KY · On-site

$21.12/hr

Provide back up for the Lead Chemical Operator. Required Qualifications * High school degree * Ability to lift heavy objects * Safety training, environmental training, and ISO 9000 training * Must be ...

Monument Chemical

Chemical Operator

Brandenburg, KY

$18.50 - $21/hr

Working together like a family, our teams drive continual improvement in quality, cost, lead time ... The Chemical Operator will perform a wide variety of duties essential to the manufacture of ...

Monument Chemical

Chemical Operator

Brandenburg, KY · On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

Working together like a family, our teams drive continual improvement in quality, cost, lead time ... The Chemical Operator will perform a wide variety of duties essential to the manufacture of ...

MFG Chemical

Chemical Operator

Dalton, GA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

... Lead Operator.  Maintain a clean and safe operating area.  Follow safety procedures and use proper safety equipment for all assigned tasks.  Learn and practice environmental, health and ...

Integrated Resources INC

Chemical Operator

Somerville, NJ

$19.75 - $22.50/hr

Under the close direction of the Production Supervisor and/or Lead Operator, the Chemical Operator I is responsible for the majority of the material handling tasks in the manufacturing department.

Coalition

Chemical Operator

Cleveland, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $19.75/hr

At every level, we lead with our values: * Start with the Customer - We focus on solving problems ... The Opportunity The Chemical Operator is responsible for setting up and completing chemical ...

Wacker Chemie AG

Chemical Operator - EG

Charleston, TN · On-site

$16 - $18.25/hr

Chemical Operator - EG Job Location (Short): Charleston, TN, USA, 37310 Posting Start Date: 5/27/26 ... Be a team player with the desire to lead and coach/train others * Detail and quality oriented with ...

Sharp Business Management Inc

Chemical Operator

Cleveland, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $19.75/hr

At every level, we lead with our values: * Start with the Customer - We focus on solving problems ... The Opportunity The Chemical Operator is responsible for setting up and completing chemical ...

Sharp Business Management Inc

Chemical Operator

Cleveland, TX · On-site

$17.50 - $19.75/hr

At every level, we lead with our values: * Start with the Customer - We focus on solving problems ... The Opportunity The Chemical Operator is responsible for setting up and completing chemical ...

Gulbrandsen

Chemical Operator

Orangeburg, SC · On-site

$18/hr

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS ● Assist Lead Operator with daily plant operations ● Serve as backup to Lead Operator for emergency response ● Stock chemical reactors with raw materials ● ...

BASF Corporation

Chemical Operator

Appleton, WI · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

The role of the Chemical Operator is to provide the labor and expertise to safely manufacture ... The position also involves providing support to the senior maintenance lead and assisting in area ...

BASF Corporation

Chemical Operator

Appleton, WI · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

The role of the Chemical Operator is to provide the labor and expertise to safely manufacture ... The position also involves providing support to the senior maintenance lead and assisting in area ...

Huntsman Corporation

Chemical Operator - RH

Rock Hill, SC · On-site

$16 - $18.25/hr

: Chemical Operator - RH Huntsman is seeking a Chemical Operator - RH supporting the Advanced ... Perform additional duties as assigned by the Shift Supervisor, Lead Operator, or Production Manager.

Aurorium

Chemical Operator

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$16.75 - $19/hr

DescriptionThe Chemical Operator position is responsible for performing all duties associated with ... Lead Operator * Assists in cross-training team members and co-workers as needed * Maintains ...

New

AB Specialty Silicones

Chemical Operator

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21/hr

... lead/supervisor. • Comply with all company occupational health, safety and environmental legal requirements. • Use personal protective equipment as assigned. • Report all unsafe conditions ...

Huntsman

Chemical Operator - RH

Rock Hill, SC · On-site

$16 - $18.25/hr

: Chemical Operator - RH Huntsman is seeking a Chemical Operator - RH supporting the Advanced ... Perform additional duties as assigned by the Shift Supervisor, Lead Operator, or Production Manager.

CHEM GROUP

Chemical Operator - Senior

Evansville, IN · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Recognized throughout the chemical industry for safe, efficient, and innovative strategies to ... lead operator, plant supervisor, or plant manager, within the parameters for which he/she has been ...

CHEM Group

Chemical Operator - Senior

Evansville, IN · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Recognized throughout the chemical industry for safe, efficient, and innovative strategies to ... lead operator, plant supervisor, or plant manager, within the parameters for which he/she has been ...

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Lead Chemical Operator information

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How much do lead chemical operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead chemical operator in the United States is $20.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead chemical operator do?

A Lead Chemical Operator oversees the daily operations of chemical processing equipment in manufacturing plants. They are responsible for ensuring that production runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently by monitoring equipment, supervising staff, and troubleshooting issues. Additionally, they help implement safety protocols, maintain compliance with environmental regulations, and train new operators. Their leadership role often involves coordinating with other teams and reporting to plant managers.

What are some common challenges faced by lead chemical operators, and how can they be addressed?

Lead Chemical Operators often encounter challenges such as managing complex production schedules, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. These challenges can be addressed by maintaining clear communication with team members, regularly participating in safety training, and staying up to date with equipment maintenance procedures. Developing strong problem-solving skills and fostering a culture of teamwork can also help resolve issues efficiently and minimize production downtime.

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

To thrive as a Lead Chemical Operator, you need strong knowledge of chemical processes, safety protocols, and production procedures, typically supported by a high school diploma or associate degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with process control systems (DCS/PLC), safety management systems, and certifications like OSHA Process Safety Management are often required. Attention to detail, leadership, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for overseeing teams and ensuring compliance. These abilities are essential for maintaining safe, efficient operations, minimizing risks, and leading teams in high-stakes manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Lead Chemical Operator vs Chemical Operator?

AspectLead Chemical OperatorChemical Operator
CredentialsTypically requires relevant certifications and experience in chemical processingRequires basic certifications and on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentSupervises operations in manufacturing plants, labs, or processing facilitiesPerforms routine chemical processing tasks in similar environments
ResponsibilitiesOversees daily operations, ensures safety, and mentors team membersOperates equipment, monitors processes, and maintains safety standards

The Lead Chemical Operator generally has more experience, supervisory duties, and responsibilities for overseeing chemical processes. They often serve as a bridge between management and operators, ensuring safety and efficiency. Chemical Operators focus on executing specific tasks within the process. Both roles require knowledge of safety protocols and chemical handling, but the lead position involves additional leadership and oversight duties.

How much do lead chemical operators make in the US?

Lead chemical operators in the US typically earn an average salary of around $70,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often require knowledge of safety protocols, process control, and may hold certifications such as OSHA training.

Is a lead chemical operator a good job?

A lead chemical operator is a skilled role responsible for overseeing chemical manufacturing processes, ensuring safety, quality, and efficiency. It typically requires technical knowledge, certifications, and the ability to manage a team in a plant environment, offering stable employment and opportunities for advancement.
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What job categories do people searching Lead Chemical Operator jobs look for?

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Lead Chemical Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Chemical Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,592 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Chemical Operator I

Estron Chemical

Calvert City, KY

$21.12/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Department:  Production

Classification:  Non-Exempt

Opportunity Type:  Full Time

Shift:  Swing Shift

Hourly Wage:  $21.12

Reports To:  Production Supervisor

 

Summary

Responsible for operating chemical plant machines and entire chemical processes. Monitor instruments, adjust valves and gauges, and interpret chemical reactions.

 

Essential Functions

  • Perform start up and shut down procedures for the facility.
  • Follow written manufacturing procedures.
  • Conduct in-process quality control testing for products.
  • Drum and fill containers used to ship finished goods.
  • Label finished goods properly.
  • Transfer finished goods from manufacturing areas to storage facilities.
  • Off load bulk deliveries of raw materials into the appropriate storage vessel.
  • Manage generated waste.
  • Keep work areas clean.
  • Report problems observed at the facility.
  • Perform emergency shut-down procedures for the facility.
  • Provide back up for the Lead Chemical Operator.

 

Required Qualifications

  • High school degree
  • Ability to lift heavy objects
  • Safety training, environmental training, and ISO 9000 training
  • Must be a team player with a positive attitude who treats all coworkers with dignity and respect.
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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