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Pharmaceutical Production Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Artius Solutions

Production Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$47K - $70K/yr

Manufacturing Job Summary The Production Operator is responsible for performing pharmaceutical manufacturing activities in accordance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), internal ...

LinQ Global

Production Operator

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

Production Operator Location: Cranbury, NJ 08512 Type: Full-Time Shift Time : 3 PM to 11:30 PM Job ... Master the mechanical disassembly, technical setup, and verification of high-speed pharmaceutical ...

Mintex Technology

Production Operator II

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$76K/yr

Production Operator II / III - Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Location: Chantilly, VA Job Type: Full-Time Salary: $76000/yr plus $3000 joining bonus Industry: Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Benefits:

Kelly Services

Production Operator

Bloomington, IN

$18.50/hr

Kelly ® is looking for Production Operators to work at a premier pharmaceutical company in Bloomington, IN. Let us help you grow at work and discover the next step in your career, all while being a ...

Kelly Services

Production Operator

Bloomington, IN

$18.50/hr

Kelly ® is looking for Production Operators to work at a premier pharmaceutical company in Bloomington, IN. Let us help you grow at work and discover the next step in your career, all while being a ...

YO AI Labs

Production Operator

Cranbury, NJ · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Production Operator * Experience: 3-18 Years * Location: Cranbury, New Jersey, USA * Job Type ... Familiarity with working in a regulated pharmaceutical solid dosage facility. * Performing tasks ...

Harba Solutions

Production Technician

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

PRODUCTION OPERATIONS OPERATOR Job Summary: Performs all functions relating to the processing of ... clean pharmaceutical production & packaging equipment and facilities - Executes procedures to ...

Indivior PLC

Operator I, Non-Aseptic Production

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Operator I, Non-Aseptic Production WHO WE ARE Indivior is a global pharmaceutical company working to help change patients' lives by developing medicines to treat Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). Our vision ...

Indivior

Operator I, Non-Aseptic Production

Raleigh, NC

$20 - $25/hr

Operator I, Non-Aseptic Production WHO WE ARE Indivior is a global pharmaceutical company working to help change patients' lives by developing medicines to treat Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). Our vision ...

Garonit Pharmaceutical

Production Operator

Fairfield, NJ · On-site

$17 - $20.75/hr

Production Operator Department: Manufacturing Reporting To : Assistant Manager, Operations Summary ... Operator will manufacture a pharmaceutical active ingredient in liquid form. Stage material, charge ...

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Pharmaceutical Production Operator information

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$11

$18

$23

How much do pharmaceutical production operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for pharmaceutical production operator in the United States is $18.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a pharmaceutical manufacturing operator do?

A pharmaceutical manufacturing operator is responsible for operating and monitoring equipment used in the production of medications, ensuring processes comply with safety and quality standards. They perform tasks such as assembling machinery, following standard operating procedures, and documenting production activities, often working in cleanroom environments and requiring attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols.

How much is the salary of a production operator?

The salary of a pharmaceutical production operator typically ranges from $35,000 to $55,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the specific company. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages. Overtime and shift differentials can also increase overall compensation.

What is the highest paying job in pharmaceuticals?

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, senior roles such as Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Director or Plant Manager tend to be the highest paying positions, often earning six-figure salaries. These roles require extensive experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of regulatory compliance and production processes.

Is a production operator's job hard?

A pharmaceutical production operator's job can be physically and mentally demanding, requiring attention to detail, adherence to strict safety and quality standards, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Tasks often involve operating machinery, following precise procedures, and maintaining cleanliness, which can be challenging but manageable with proper training and experience.

What is the difference between Pharmaceutical Production Operator vs Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technician?

AspectPharmaceutical Production OperatorPharmaceutical Manufacturing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; GMP trainingHigh school diploma; GMP and technical training
Work EnvironmentCleanrooms, manufacturing floorsManufacturing facilities, laboratories
Job FocusOperating equipment, following production protocolsMaintaining equipment, troubleshooting, quality checks
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceutical companies, biotech firmsPharmaceutical manufacturing plants, biotech companies

Both roles are essential in pharmaceutical manufacturing, with the Pharmaceutical Production Operator primarily handling equipment operation and adhering to protocols, while the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Technician focuses on equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and quality assurance. They often work together to ensure efficient and compliant production processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pharmaceutical Production Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pharmaceutical Production Operator, you need a solid understanding of manufacturing processes, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some roles requiring additional technical training. Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), production machinery, and systems like batch record software is crucial. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to quality help operators excel in maintaining safety and product standards. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant production of pharmaceuticals, which is vital for both regulatory adherence and patient safety.

What does a Pharmaceutical Production Operator do?

A Pharmaceutical Production Operator is responsible for operating and monitoring machinery and equipment used in the manufacturing of pharmaceutical products. Their duties include following strict safety and quality protocols, measuring and mixing ingredients, packaging finished products, and maintaining detailed production records. They also perform routine equipment checks and assist with cleaning and maintenance to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Attention to detail and adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are essential in this role.

What are some common challenges Pharmaceutical Production Operators face and how can they be managed?

Pharmaceutical Production Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), adapting to frequent changes in production schedules, and handling sensitive equipment or hazardous materials. Attention to detail and strong organizational skills are essential to ensure product quality and safety. Proactively communicating with team members and participating in ongoing training can help operators stay up-to-date with procedures and minimize errors, making day-to-day operations smoother and more efficient.
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What cities are hiring for Pharmaceutical Production Operator jobs? Cities with the most Pharmaceutical Production Operator job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Pharmaceutical Production Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pharmaceutical Production Operator jobs are:
Pharmaceutical Production Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pharmaceutical Production Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,856 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Production Operator II / III

Unizontechnology

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$22 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Title:

Production Operator II / III – Oral Solid Dosage (Compression, Coating, Granulation, Encapsulation)

Location: Chantilly, VA
Pay Rate: $22 – $35/hour (based on experience)
Shifts:

  • 2nd Shift: 4:00 PM – 12:30 AM

  • 3rd Shift: 12:00 AM – 8:30 AM
    \*Must be flexible for overtime.

Employment Type: Full-time (with benefits)
 

About the Role

We are seeking skilled Pharmaceutical Production Operators with Oral Solid Dosage (OSD) manufacturing experience to join our team in Chantilly, VA.
As a Production Operator II / III, you will operate, set up, clean, and maintain state-of-the-art pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment to produce high‑quality drug products in a cGMP‑regulated environment. You will be part of a team committed to safety, quality, and efficiency, ensuring products meet FDA and company standards.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operate production machinery for OSD manufacturing — including tablet compression, coating (pan or Wurster), granulation, encapsulation, blending, and drying.

  • Clean, set up, dismantle, and troubleshoot manufacturing equipment per SOPs.

  • Follow current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) at all times.

  • Weigh, blend, dispense, mix, and process raw materials following batch records.

  • Conduct in-process quality checks and record detailed, accurate documentation in batch production records and logbooks.

  • Perform machine changeovers between batches.

  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, safety, and quality.

  • Maintain cleanliness and organization in the manufacturing area.

  • Support compliance with FDA, OSHA, and company safety standards.

Must-Have Qualifications

  • Hands-on OSD manufacturing experience (pharmaceutical tablet and capsule production).

  • Proven experience with cleaning, setting up, dismantling, and operating tablet presses and encapsulation equipment.

  • Proficiency in one or more processes: Compression, Granulation, Encapsulation, Wurster Coating, Coating, Fluid Bed Dryers, Bead Tower.

  • Knowledge of cGMP and pharmaceutical manufacturing standards.

  • Ability to read, write, and communicate in basic English.

  • Physical ability to stand for prolonged periods, lift up to 50 lbs, wear a respirator and PPE.

Preferred (Nice to Have)

  • Experience with Fette, MG2, and Korsch tablet press/encapsulation equipment.

  • Pharmaceutical granulation and blending experience.

  • Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma principles.

  • Forklift certification.

Experience & Education

  • Production Operator II: High School Diploma/GED/Associate’s Degree + 2–5 years in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

  • Production Operator III: High School Diploma/GED/Associate’s Degree + 5+ years in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Benefits

  • Relocation support and temporary accommodation available.

  • Comprehensive health insurance, 401(k) with company match, PTO.

  • Career growth opportunities in a global pharmaceutical company.

Interview Process

  1. Virtual interview via MS Teams.

  2. On-site visit.
    \*Offer contingent on drug screening & background check.