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Pharmaceutical Production Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Production Operator

Orangeburg, NY · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Production Operator - Medical Device / Diagnostics Manufacturing Location: Blauvelt, NY Contract ... Support manufacturing operations involving medical devices, diagnostics, pharmaceutical, or biotech ...

Production Operator

Orangeburg, NY · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Production Operator - Medical Device / Diagnostics Manufacturing Location: Blauvelt, NY Contract ... Support manufacturing operations involving medical devices, diagnostics, pharmaceutical, or biotech ...

Production Operator

Orangeburg, NY · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Production Operator - Medical Device / Diagnostics Manufacturing Location: Blauvelt, NY Contract ... Support manufacturing operations involving medical devices, diagnostics, pharmaceutical, or biotech ...

Production Operator

Orangeburg, NY · On-site

$21 - $23/hr

Production Operator - Medical Device / Diagnostics Manufacturing Location: Blauvelt, NY Contract ... Support manufacturing operations involving medical devices, diagnostics, pharmaceutical, or biotech ...

Aerotek is hiring Overnight Pharmaceutical Production Operators for a leading pharmaceutical manufacturing company. Immediate interviews available for candidates seeking a long-term career with ...

$13.75 - $16.50/hr

Production operators will work as a team in a cell concept rotating through multiple job functions ... Where permitted by law, employment with West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. or any of its subsidiary ...

Production Operator

Kinston, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Production operators will work as a team in a cell concept rotating through multiple job functions ... Where permitted by law, employment with West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. or any of its subsidiary ...

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Pharmaceutical Production Operator information

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$11

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$23

How much do pharmaceutical production operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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.
More about Pharmaceutical Production Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Pharmaceutical Production Operator jobs? Cities with the most Pharmaceutical Production Operator job openings:
What states have the most Pharmaceutical Production Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Pharmaceutical Production Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Pharmaceutical Production Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pharmaceutical Production Operator jobs are:
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 Operations Operator - C Shift - Encap

Production Operations Operator - C Shift - Encap

Lannett Company Inc

Seymour, IN • On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Lannett rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 74 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Description:

Job Summary

Performs all functions relating to the processing of drug products; consistent with established Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), customer requirements and in conduction with all Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). Responsible for the safe and efficient execution of their job duties, while ensuring product compliance to established standards.


Scope of Job

The production operator is a position within the manufacturing & packaging departments that is solely responsible for the operations of equipment utilized in the production and packaging of oral solid dose products.


Key Accountabilities

  • Documentation 40%
  • Executes Batch Record and logbook documentation with detail and accuracy
  • Performs required in-process product quality checks and documents accurately
  • Executes procedures to complete tasks in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Operation of Equipment 50%
  • Executes the procedures used to clean pharmaceutical production & packaging equipment and facilities
  • Executes procedures to complete tasks in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Operates pharmaceutical production & packaging machinery and executes procedures for manufacturing such as dispensing, mixing, granulation, coating, encapsulation, milling, blending, compressing, printing, laser drill inspection and the like.
  • Execute in changeovers
  • Maintains production/packaging reporting for assigned work unit operation.
  • Teamwork 10%
  • Work in collaboration with others as part of a team
  • Assists with on the job training of other production trainees and operators
  • Effectively communicates issues to supervisor
  • Assists in identification and implementation of continuous improvement opportunities
  • Performs other related duties as assigned to meet departmental and Company objectives
  • Other duties assigned
Requirements:

Education, Experience and Qualifications

Required

  • High School Diploma / GED

Experience

  • 0-2 years of Production/Packaging experience is an asset. Strong background in solid dose manufacturing or packaging preferred. Must be capable of working various hours/shifts and weekends when necessary.

Specific Skills

  • Knowledge of the Metric and English weighing and measurement systems
  • Basic understanding of mechanical machinery and the operating principles of control systems
  • Demonstrated mathematical ability in addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, ratios and percentages
  • Ability to use a calculator and computer systems (Word, Excel, SAP, Outlook, SharePoint, Master Control, Success Factors)
  • Ability to follow both verbal and written instructions including SOP’s and Batch Record documentation
  • Accurate and precise in recording data and batch information
  • Proficient in reading and writing English to understand work instructions and document results
  • Demonstrated ability to operate pharmaceutical processing equipment and meet required standards of cGMP’s
  • Demonstrate understanding of the unit operations and the ability to assist with on-the-job training of manufacturing trainees and operators
  • Complete visual inspections and accountably
  • Dispensing - Demonstrates the ability of cleaning and setup of rooms and downflow booths. Can complete basic transactions in SAP. This includes Eol for lots.
  • Granulation - Capable of disassembly, cleaning, reassembly, operating, and basic troubleshooting of three pieces of machinery (screeners, binlifts, bin blenders, and/or drum inverters). Additionally, must be able to accurately complete accountability and SAP weighing of drums; inputting labor hours; and completion of container check in.
  • Encapsulation –The ability to operate, perform in-process checks and accountability calculations for IMA micro-tablet capsule filling, operate, disassemble and basic trouble shooting of a powder/pellet dosator. Set-up, clean, operate all check weighing systems (CWI, KKE, IMA)
  • Compression – The ability to operate, disassemble, reassemble and basic trouble shooting of a single sided press (Fette 2200, Korsch XL 200/400) with multiple products (Year 1). Demonstrate the ability of operating, disassemble, reassemble and basic trouble shooting of 2 single sided presses (Fette 2200, Korsch XL 200/400) with more than one product or an additional press (Fette 3200/3090) not utilizing mutli-tipped tooling (Year 2)
  • Coating – demonstrates the ability of cleaning and assembly of solution prep vessels and equipment and serves as a secondary operator. Capable of operating, cleaning and assembly of one coater with multiple products
  • Fluid Bed – demonstrates the ability of cleaning and assembly of solution prep vessels and equipment and serves as a secondary operator. Capable of operating, cleaning and assembly of the sub-coat, enteric coat and top spray processes
  • Print/Laser Drill/Inspection – capable of operating/cleaning, disassemble and reassemble of two machines including accountability and SAP weighing of drums


Physical Requirements

  • Stand, walk, sit, climb, balance, stoop or crouch, kneel, reach, pull, push, grasp, feel, talk and hear.
  • Individual is in a proximity to moving mechanical parts, electrical current and exposure to chemicals.
  • Have clarity of vision at 20 feet or more and 20 inches or less with the ability to judge distance and space relationships, bring object into sharp focus and see up and down or to the right or left while fixed on a point.
  • Must have the ability to identify and distinguish colors.
  • • Exert an amount of force continuously and/or up to 5 pounds of force frequently and/or up to 25 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 50 pounds of force rarely by utilizing a hand truck to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.
  • • Must be able to wear respiratory devices that include but are not limited to: Air Purifying Respirators (APR) which include half-face and full-face respirators, hooded powered air purifying respirators, or Supplied Air Respirators (SAR), which include hooded or full face supplied air respirators.


Scope of Decision-Making:

Decisions require little judgment. Understand and follow basic/routine instructions and use basic/routine equipment involving few decisions. Duties are extremely standardized and performed under direction supervision or review.


Level of Supervision Provided:

Individual contributor, not responsible for the work of others.


The above description is intended to describe the general content and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements. Management has the right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.


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About LANNETT

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Philadelphia, PA, US

Year founded

1942

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