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Pilot Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pilot Plant Associate Operator - Erlanger, Ky

Erlanger, KY

$41K - $71K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Pilot Plant Associate Operator - Erlanger, KyPosition Summary: Maintain the pilot plant equipment by performing minor repairs and request maintenance to execute the major repairs.Maintain a clean and ...

Pilot Plant Technician

Glenview, IL · On-site

$56K - $71K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Technician is responsible for executing trial plans by operating pilot plant machinery and equipment, controlling process flow, and completing manual process work in packaging and/or less complex ...

New

TheTechnicianis responsible forexecuting trial plans by operating pilot plant machinery and equipment, controlling process flow, and completing manual process work in packaging and/or less complex ...

New

Pilot Plant Technician

Le Sueur, MN · On-site

$22.65 - $28.68/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Communicate job problems and concerns with peers and the Pilot Plant Manager ... Perform job duties while utilizing safe operating procedures, as laid out in the SOP manuals

Pilot Plant Technician

Le Sueur, MN · On-site

$22.65 - $28.68/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Communicate job problems and concerns with peers and the Pilot Plant Manager ... Perform job duties while utilizing safe operating procedures, as laid out in the SOP manuals

Pilot-Plant Manager

Clyde, OH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Pilot-Plant Manager Position Type:Professional / Unclassified Department:LSUAG PL3 - SNFS - Food ... Ensure proper development, implementation, and continuous improvement of operating procedures and ...

Pilot-Plant Manager

Clyde, OH · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Pilot-Plant Manager Position Type:Professional / Unclassified Department:LSUAG PL3 - SNFS - Food ... Ensure proper development, implementation, and continuous improvement of operating procedures and ...

Pilot-Plant Manager

Clyde, OH

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Pilot-Plant Manager Position Type:Professional / Unclassified Department:LSUAG PL3 - SNFS - Food ... Ensure proper development, implementation, and continuous improvement of operating procedures and ...

Pilot Plant Technician

Lafayette, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Pilot Plant Technician will assist in all activities ongoing in the pilot plant as required by ... Forklift Operator Training * Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) * Lockout/Tagout * Right ...

Develop and maintain operating procedures, P&IDs, and process documentation. Process Safety ... pilot plant, chemical manufacturing, or process development operations. * 5+ years of people ...

Pilot Plant Downstream Processing Operator

Augusta, GA · On-site

$15 - $19/hr

Pilot Plant Downstream Processing Operator Manus Manus works across industries and value chains to accelerate the transition to BioAlternatives - better performing and more sustainable versions of ...

Pilot Plant Technologist

Collegeville, PA

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Pilot Plant Technologist Location: Collegeville, PA Assignment Length : 12 + month Pay range: $25 ... Leads improvements in plant performance and Operating discipline, including creating, improving ...

Pilot Plant Technician

Lafayette, CO · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Pilot Plant Technician will assist in all activities ongoing in the pilot plant as required by ... Forklift Operator Training * Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) * Lockout/Tagout * Right ...

Pilot Plant & Laboratory Manager

Burlington, MA · On-site

$76K - $133K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Oversee on site installation and calibration of laboratory instruments and equipment; compile or generate operating documentation and SOP's * Maintain and oversee pilot plant operation schedules, raw ...

Showing results 41-60

Pilot Plant Operator information

See salary details

$14

$28

$78

How much do pilot plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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.

Is being a pilot plant operator worth it?

Pilot plant operators manage small-scale production processes in manufacturing or research settings, requiring technical skills and attention to safety protocols. The role offers opportunities for hands-on work, skill development, and potential advancement in industries like chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or food production, often with shift work and the need for relevant certifications. Compensation varies based on experience and industry, but it can be a stable career path for those interested in process 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.

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.

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 skills include understanding process control, operating laboratory and industrial equipment, and following safety protocols; certifications such as OSHA safety training can be advantageous. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles in manufacturing or chemical processing can improve employment prospects.

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 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 43% Full Time, 55% 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 Associate Operator - Erlanger, Ky

ADM

Erlanger, KY

$41K - $71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 361 rated logistics


Job description

Job Description Pilot Plant Associate Operator - Erlanger, KyPosition Summary: Maintain the pilot plant equipment by performing minor repairs and request maintenance to execute the major repairs.Maintain a clean and sanitary work environment in the pilot plant while following proper GMP's.Support ISO 9001 Quality Management Principles and ISO 22000 Food Safety Initiatives.Learn all of the processes and operation of equipment in the pilot plant.Job Responsibilities:Ability to operate pilot plant equipmentFamiliar with AS 400 system, Microsoft Word and Excel programs.Execute proper procedures for batching and processing beverages.Maintain the beverage pilot plant in an organized and sanitary condition.Retrieve supplies and raw materials on pilot plant list for projects.Maintain thorough records concerning pilot plant processes, projects, and equipment.Make basic beverage formula calculations.Job Requirements:Minimum of high school diploma with basic understanding of science and math.1-3 years experience in food processing and related industries.Record keeping, detail oriented and computer skillsInterpersonal skills, to work in a cross functional team environment. Basic mechanical aptitude.Physical Demands:Able to lift and transport materials and equipment weighing up to 50 lb.Frequent standing and repetitive hand movements.Occasional bending, kneeling, climbing stairs.Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. REF:111558BR Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. The pay range for this position is expected to be between: $41,600.00 - $71,000.00 Benefits and Perks Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including: Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable). Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection. Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares). Additional benefits include: Paid time off including paid holidays. Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave. Tuition assistance. Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs. *Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter. #IncludingYouDiversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law About ADM At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.

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