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Pilot Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pilot Plant Operator Location: Ridgefield, CT Type: Contract Overview Established pharma company looking to hire experienced Pilot Plant Operator to join their growing team. Will work with plant ...

Pilot Plant Operator Location: Ridgefield, CT Type: Contract Overview Established pharma company looking to hire experienced Pilot Plant Operator to join their growing team. Will work with plant ...

Pilot Plant Operator Location: Ridgefield, CT Type: Contract Overview Established pharma company looking to hire experienced Pilot Plant Operator to join their growing team. Will work with plant ...

Pilot Plant Operator Location: Ridgefield, CT Type: Contract Overview Established pharma company looking to hire experienced Pilot Plant Operator to join their growing team. Will work with plant ...

Pilot Plant Operator Location: Ridgefield, CT Type: Contract Overview Established pharma company looking to hire experienced Pilot Plant Operator to join their growing team. Will work with plant ...

Within our Corporate R&D/Pilot Plant team in Denver , Leprino is seeking a Pilot Plant Operator to support our Nutrition side product development and pilot plant trials. In this role, you will set up ...

Pilot Plant Operator Location: Ridgefield, CT Type: Contract Overview Established pharma company looking to hire experienced Pilot Plant Operator to join their growing team. Will work with plant ...

Within our Corporate R&D/Pilot Plant team in Denver , Leprino is seeking a Pilot Plant Operator to support our Nutrition side product development and pilot plant trials. In this role, you will set up ...

Pilot Plant Operator

Alameda, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

The Role - Plant Operator We're looking for an experienced Plant Operators to run and maintain our rare-earth metal production facility. You'll own day-to-day operations of our pilot-scale production ...

Pilot Plant Operator

Alameda, CA · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

The Role -- Plant Operator We're looking for an experienced Plant Operators to run and maintain our rare-earth metal production facility. You'll own day-to-day operations of our pilot-scale ...

R&D Pilot Plant Operator * Excited to grow your career? We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our employees grow professionally before recruiting new talent to ...

R&D Pilot Plant Operator * Excited to grow your career? We value our talented employees, and whenever possible strive to help one of our employees grow professionally before recruiting new talent to ...

Pilot Plant Fermentation Operator, Augusta, Georgia, United States, Full-Time Manus works across industries and value chains to accelerate the transition to BioAlternatives - better performing and ...

Pilot Plant Fermentation Operator, Augusta, Georgia, United States, Full-Time Manus works across industries and value chains to accelerate the transition to BioAlternatives - better performing and ...

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How much do pilot plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for pilot plant operator in the United States is $28.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pilot plant operator?

Pilot Plant Operators are professionals responsible for operating and overseeing small-scale industrial plants, known as pilot plants, which are used to test and optimize processes before they are implemented on a full-scale production level. Their duties include monitoring equipment, collecting data, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They play a crucial role in bridging the gap between laboratory research and commercial manufacturing, helping companies refine processes and evaluate new technologies. Pilot Plant Operators often work closely with engineers, scientists, and production teams to ensure the smooth transition of new products and processes to larger-scale operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a pilot plant operator?

To thrive as a Pilot Plant Operator, you need a solid background in chemical engineering or process technology, along with experience in operating and troubleshooting pilot-scale equipment. Familiarity with process control systems, safety protocols, and sometimes certifications such as OSHA or HAZMAT training are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are important soft skills for coordinating with teams and ensuring operational efficiency. These qualifications are critical for safely scaling up processes, maintaining product quality, and supporting innovation in industrial settings.

What are common challenges faced by pilot plant operators during scale-up processes?

Pilot Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as translating laboratory-scale procedures into larger, operational systems while maintaining product quality and safety. Variations in equipment, unexpected process inefficiencies, and troubleshooting new or modified machinery are typical hurdles. Working closely with engineers, chemists, and safety teams is essential to address these issues, ensure compliance with protocols, and optimize production runs. Operators must be adaptable and detail-oriented to respond quickly to process deviations and ensure smooth scale-up operations.

What is the difference between Pilot Plant Operator vs Process Technician?

AspectPilot Plant OperatorProcess Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentLaboratory or pilot plant settings, handling small-scale productionManufacturing or production facilities, maintaining equipment
Industry UsagePharmaceutical, chemical, and biotech industriesChemical, manufacturing, and processing industries
Job FocusOperating and monitoring pilot-scale equipment for R&D and testingOperating and troubleshooting production equipment for ongoing manufacturing

The Pilot Plant Operator and Process Technician roles share similarities in working with industrial equipment and requiring technical skills. However, Pilot Plant Operators focus on small-scale testing and development in R&D environments, while Process Technicians support large-scale manufacturing processes. Both roles are essential in their respective industries and often require similar certifications and technical knowledge.

How to get hired as a pilot plant operator?

To get hired as a pilot plant operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring an associate's or bachelor's degree in engineering, chemistry, or a related field. Relevant experience operating laboratory or industrial equipment, knowledge of safety protocols, and certifications such as OSHA training can improve job prospects. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow detailed procedures are essential for success in this role.

What does a pilot plant operator do?

A pilot plant operator manages and controls small-scale production processes to test and develop new products or processes. They operate equipment, monitor parameters, ensure safety protocols, and document procedures to support scale-up for commercial manufacturing.

What cities are hiring for Pilot Plant Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Pilot Plant Operator job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Pilot Plant Operator jobs?

The top employers for Pilot Plant Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Pilot Plant Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Pilot Plant Operator jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Pilot Plant Operator jobs?

For Pilot Plant Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Pilot Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 37% Full Time, 61% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,395 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Pilot Plant Operator

Cross Resource Group

San Antonio, TX

$24 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Pilot Plant Operator / Decommissioning Technician


Job Summary


This role supports the decommissioning and teardown of pilot plants, including rigging activities where applicable. Following decommissioning, the position transitions into a Pilot Plant Operator role responsible for all operational aspects of the plant during assigned shifts. This includes ensuring safe, efficient startup, operation, and shutdown of chemical plant equipment from the control room, as well as supporting field operations.


Key Responsibilities


Decommissioning Phase

  • Assist with decommissioning and teardown of pilot plants
  • Perform rigging activities (preferred experience)

Operations Phase

  • Operate and monitor pilot plant systems from the control room
  • Ensure safe and efficient startup, operation, and shutdown of plant equipment
  • Oversee personnel, equipment, and safety during assigned shifts
  • Direct Field Operators during startup, operation, shutdown, and abnormal situations
  • Monitor and record plant operating parameters; make adjustments as needed
  • Detect faulty equipment, diagnose issues, and take corrective action
  • Monitor air and water emissions and maintain within acceptable limits
  • Notify shift advisor or plant management of abnormal conditions immediately
  • Provide regular status reports to shift supervisor and/or plant management
  • Ensure thorough shift turnover, including review of logs and operating conditions

Maintenance & Safety

  • Perform equipment isolation in accordance with lockout/tagout procedures
  • Open, lock, and tag equipment for maintenance activities
  • Conduct tests on critical safety systems as directed
  • Identify, troubleshoot, and correct potential operational or safety issues
  • Maintain a clean and orderly work area
  • Participate in safety meetings, training, and scheduled activities
  • Assist in training site staff
  • Perform minor maintenance during scheduled and unscheduled outages

General Duties

  • Support plant improvement projects and third-party activities
  • Safely operate a vehicle on site as required
  • Perform other duties as assigned by shift supervisor or plant management

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • 5+ years of industry experience
  • Knowledge of mechanical, instrumentation, and electrical equipment
  • Demonstrated understanding of chemical or process demonstration unit operations
  • Ability to make sound decisions in emergency situations
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to follow policies, procedures, and instructions
  • Knowledge of equipment isolation and tagging procedures
  • Thorough understanding of plant safety equipment and its proper use
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent teamwork, leadership, and organizational skills
  • Experience operating a process demonstration unit preferred
  • Basic computer skills (Excel and Word)

Work Schedule

  • Standard hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Must be available for shift work (24/7 operations)

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

  • Work performed in lab, plant, or high-bay environments
  • Requires standing, walking, climbing stairs and ladders
  • Work performed both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Worksites span approximately 1,500 acres; walking between locations required
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted or assisted
  • Must wear steel-toe shoes

Additional Requirements

  • Must submit to a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check
  • Position is classified as safety-sensitive
  • Dress code: collared shirt and jeans


Join the Cross Resource Group Team!


At Cross Resource Group, we value our employees and are dedicated to providing a rewarding and inclusive work environment. We are proud to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to meet the diverse needs of our team.


Employee Benefits Include:


Healthcare Insurance: Comprehensive coverage to ensure access to quality healthcare.

Dental Insurance: Robust coverage for optimal oral health.

Vision Insurance: Regular exams and corrective lenses covered.

Disability Insurance: Short and long-term coverage protecting against loss of income due to illness or injury.

Life Insurance: Providing financial security and peace of mind for our employees and their loved ones.

Why Choose Us?