1

Pilot Plant Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

... plant operations. This position will assist in the planning and implementation of operational ... to ensure consistent operating execution and sustainability within a region. The Regional ...

Regional Operations Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$39.21 - $58.81/hr

... plant operations. This position will assist in the planning and implementation of operational ... to ensure consistent operating execution and sustainability within a region. The Regional ...

... process plant across various systems, unit operations and process equipment. Specific tasks may ... Compile operating cost estimates including estimation of consumables, labor, maintenance materials ...

Job Page

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Under general direction of the Physical Plant Supervisor, the Building Maintenance Specialist (BMS ... Any employee operating a motor vehicle on State business must possess and retain a current, valid ...

... process plant across various systems, unit operations and process equipment. Specific tasks may ... Compile operating cost estimates including estimation of consumables, labor, maintenance materials ...

Minerals Lead / Director

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$120 - $190/hr

... plant. * Materials characterisation tests, laboratory, pilot and industrial scales experience ... Liaise and interface with all levels involved in a project since operators, engineers to managers

Minerals Lead / Director

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$110 - $170/hr

... plant. * Materials characterisation tests, laboratory, pilot and industrial scales experience ... Liaise and interface with all levels involved in a project since operators, engineers to managers

Showing results 41-60

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:

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.

Regional Operations Manager

Curbell, Inc.

Phoenix, AZ

$81K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:
This position is responsible for providing direction and support to warehouse management within the region in planning and execution of plant operations. This position will assist in the planning and implementation of operational initiatives and will drive process improvement projects to ensure consistent operating execution and sustainability within a region. The Regional Operations Manager will need to be able to communicate the correct course of action to warehouse management, managing issues and roadblocks.
This position will be based out of and required to travel as needed to the following branch locations: Los Angeles, Sacramento, Portland, and Phoenix.

Essential Functions:

  • Develop a culture of high performance and employee engagement by inspiring, developing, and motivating internal talent. Facilitate good discussions with employees in order to understand their professional goals and aspirations. Create an environment of open communication that fosters upward feedback and suggestions. Make well informed decisions, demonstrate initiative, exhibit autonomy and execute on organization initiatives. (Measure by Employee Engagement and Retention).
  • Manage regional operational initiatives, including ownership of company-wide strategic initiatives, pilots and rollouts within the region. Provide guidance and feedback to Warehouse and Sr. Management on operational initiatives. Coach, train, and develop warehouse management through informal interaction and formal written development plans in alignment with strategic initiatives.
  • Oversee change management and implementation of process improvement projects within their region. Review and monitor process improvement projects to ensure successful execution and sustainability.
  • Provide assistance to warehouse management through on-site visitation and interaction with operational personnel based on analysis
    of productivity and operational performance measures of individual plants.
  • Assist warehouse management with execution of policies, processes, and customer service standards that meet the needs of all internal and external customers. Provide problem solving / troubleshooting, guidance and coaching on customer service roadblocks.
  • Business Acumen & Interactions - Continue to expand skill set and demonstrate expertise in the area of technology and use of SAP in order to excel in core job functional areas. Gain an understanding of the interrelations in other areas of the business and how they connect with warehouse operations. Link that understanding to improve interactions with other departments and warehouse operations. Continue to expand communication, presentation and influencing skills in order to engage other
  • Performs other duties as assigned.


Core Competencies: 

  • Leadership
  • Process Improvement & Best Practices
  • Setting Priorities & Time Management
  • Relationships Influence & Problem Resolution
  • Coaching/Developing People and Teams
  • Managing Performance Issue

Curbell  logo

About Curbell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Medical equipment and supplies manufacturing

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Orchard Park, NY, US

Year founded

1942