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Pilot Plant Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

AEVEX

Air Vehicle Operator 2

Sierra Vista, AZ · On-site

Acts as Pilot in Command (PIC) of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). * Provide Mission Coordinator/Commander support to the team when not acting as PIC. * Primarily supports higher tier, longer ...

AEVEX

Air Vehicle Operator 2

Sierra Vista, AZ · On-site

Acts as Pilot in Command (PIC) of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). * Provide Mission Coordinator/Commander support to the team when not acting as PIC. * Primarily supports higher tier, longer ...

AEVEX

Air Vehicle Operator 2

Sierra Vista, AZ

Acts as Pilot in Command (PIC) of Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). * Provide Mission Coordinator/Commander support to the team when not acting as PIC. * Primarily supports higher tier, longer ...

FUJIFILM Biotechnologies

The RoleThe Pilot Plant Lab Engineer supports process development and the production of low-volume ... Monitor daily production operations, including reviews of operating data and data trends to ...

Fujifilm

New Product Introduction Engineer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

The Role The Pilot Plant Lab Engineer supports process development and the production of low-volume ... Monitor daily production operations, including reviews of operating data and data trends to ...

Fujifilm

New Product Introduction Engineer

Mesa, AZ

The Role The Pilot Plant Lab Engineer supports process development and the production of low-volume ... Monitor daily production operations, including reviews of operating data and data trends to ...

Fujifilm

New Product Introduction Engineer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

The Role The Pilot Plant Lab Engineer supports process development and the production of low-volume ... Monitor daily production operations, including reviews of operating data and data trends to ...

Bridgestone

Operations Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$122K - $195K/yr

The BPRC is a PSM regulated 24/5 continuous Pilot Plant facility for developing the processes ... Provide input on annual operating budgets for the process area and manage to the budget ...

Bridgestone Americas, Inc

Operations Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$122K - $195K/yr

The BPRC is a PSM regulated 24/5 continuous Pilot Plant facility for developing the processes ... Provide input on annual operating budgets for the process area and manage to the budget ...

Bridgestone Americas, Inc

Operations Manager

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$122K - $195K/yr

The BPRC is a PSM regulated 24/5 continuous Pilot Plant facility for developing the processes ... Provide input on annual operating budgets for the process area and manage to the budget ...

Bridgestone

Operations Manager

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$122K - $195K/yr

The BPRC is a PSM regulated 24/5 continuous Pilot Plant facility for developing the processes ... Provide input on annual operating budgets for the process area and manage to the budget ...

Bridgestone Americas, Inc.

Operations Manager

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$122K - $195K/yr

The BPRC is a PSM regulated 24/5 continuous Pilot Plant facility for developing the processes ... Provide input on annual operating budgets for the process area and manage to the budget ...

Worley

Senior Process Engineer - US MMM

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$103K - $133K/yr

Analyze metallurgical, operating, and plant performance data to identify process improvement, optimization, and debottlenecking opportunities. * Review, interpret, and apply laboratory, pilot plant ...

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All JobsPilot Plant Operator JobsPilot Plant Operator Jobs in Arizona

Pilot Plant Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$13

$26

$73

How much do pilot plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for pilot plant operator in Arizona is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $27.98 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 are popular job titles related to Pilot Plant Operator jobs in AZ?

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

Pilot Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pilot Plant Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,417 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Pilot Plant Operator

DIMENSIONAL ENERGY INC

Tucson, AZ

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Dimensional Energy's pioneering technology turns captured carbon dioxide emissions into clean fuel and products using renewable energy and hydrogen. By converting pollutants into eco-friendly energy, we're transforming existing systems into carbon-positive solutions, redefining the energy sector and driving a sustainable future for all. 

About the Role 

In this position you will help with the operations and maintenance of an innovative gas-to-liquids plant in Tucson, AZ. You will report directly to the Tucson Operations Manager. This is an hourly, full-time position and will require working some nights and weekends.  

Key Responsibilities 

Plant Operations

  • Operate plant and project build outs as per SOP’s
  • Continuously develop standard operating documentation for the plant.
  • Collect data and maintain data logs
  • Perform routine plant maintenance
  • Perform scheduled preventative maintenance and help keep all systems in working order, including pumps, compressors, valves, instrumentation, reactors
  • Help develop maintenance procedures and protocols
  • Setup routine maintenance schedule and self-perform where possible
  • Implement lessons learned and create a continuous improvement culture
  • Support research and development
  • Run experiments, gather data, and maintain data logs
  • Participate and successfully complete all safety training
  • Always maintain a culture of safety

Qualifications 

  • Experience: Ideally 1-2 years of experience as a Plant Operator in a processing plant environment. 
  • Mechanical Skills: Proficiency in operating complex machinery and understanding of mechanical systems. 
  • Troubleshooting Skills: Ability to identify issues, diagnose problems, and suggest improvements. 
  • Shift Work: Willingness to work rotating 12-hour shifts, including nights and weekends. 
  • Leadership Qualities: Foster leadership qualities by emphasizing teamwork, communication, and problem-solving 
  • Team Player: Ability to work effectively in a team environment.  
  • Process Knowledge: Understanding of how a process plant operates.
  • Safety Awareness: Committed to safety protocols and procedures. 

Pay and Benefits

  • The salary range for this position is $22-$32/hour depending on market, skills, and experience.  
  • Health, vision and dental insurance packages are available. 
  • Comprehensive benefits package.