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Pilot Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Pilot Plant Technician

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$58K - $85K/yr

The Pilot Plant Technician supports engineers and scientists in the development, testing, and ... Operate and maintain hand sheet processes for paper testing and development * Assist in operating ...

Pilot Plant Technician

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$58K - $85K/yr

The Pilot Plant Technician supports engineers and scientists in the development, testing, and ... Operate and maintain hand sheet processes for paper testing and development * Assist in operating ...

Purina Pilot Plant Manager

Gray Summit, MO · On-site

$81K - $121K/yr

Purina Pilot Plant Manager The Purina Animal Nutrition R&D organization provides new and strategic ... strong operating results. Preferred Experience: * Experience with feed or food processing

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 Manager

Alameda, CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

Own operator shift scheduling and coverage. * Track feedstock and inventory. Manage receipt ... plant. What We're Looking For * Degree in metallurgical, chemical, materials, or mechanical ...

Job Title Pilot Plant Technician Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where ... Preparing and operating development equipment which can vary with process and/or product ...

Pilot Plant Controls Engineer

Red Hill, SC · On-site

$71K - $84K/yr

Pilot Plant Controls Engineer Location: SP Red Hill At Sibelco, we advance life through materials ... Hands-on experience operating and controlling mineral/chemical processing plant systems, including ...

Pilot Plant Controls Engineer

Bakersville, NC · On-site

$77K - $91K/yr

Pilot Plant Controls Engineer Location: SP Red Hill At Sibelco, we advance life through materials ... Hands-on experience operating and controlling mineral/chemical processing plant systems, including ...

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Pilot Plant Operator information

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How much do pilot plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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 are Pilot Plant Operators?

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pilot Plant Operator, and why are they important?

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 some 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 63% 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 Technician

Pilot Plant Technician

Cambria

Le Sueur, MN

$22.65 - $28.68/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

At Cambria, we take care of our people by offering a great workplace with excellent benefits. On the job, you will enjoy an exceptionally clean, climate controlled environment, paid lunch breaks, a shift differential pay for certain shifts and/or jobs, and Cambria uniforms and boots. Your health and future are covered with medical and dental insurance, life and disability coverage, and a 401(k) with an immediate company match. We also offer paid time off, paid holidays, an Employee Assistance Program, tuition reimbursement, opportunities for advancement, and an employee referral program.

This position is responsible for Pilot Plant equipment and conducting all routine activities as directed by the Pilot Operations Manager while maintaining quality and safety standards.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Learn and apply the Pilot Plant operations SOPs

  • Produce R&D prototypes

  • Clean and maintain all equipment in the Pilot Plant

  • 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

  • Assist in process troubleshooting

  • Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor

Qualifications & Skills:

  • Critical thinking and troubleshooting skills

  • Basic math skills

  • Mechanically inclined

  • Industrial work experience

  • Ability to operate heavy machinery

  • Ability to become certified in using a forklift

  • Ability to become certified in using a crane

  • Ability to read and write in English

  • Good oral and written communication skills

  • Excellent organizational skills

  • Ability to work well with a team

  • High reliability and punctuality

  • Ability to effectively plan

  • Ability to work extended hours and/or weekends on short notice

Minimum Requirements:

Education: High school diploma or GED

Experience: No Experience Required

Computer Experience: Basic experince

Cambria Success Factors:

  • High attention to detail

  • Reliable and punctual

  • Direct communication

  • Sense of urgency in completing work

  • Capable of multitasking

  • Work well both independently and with a team

  • Self-motivated

Physical Requirements:

  • Lift up to 60 lbs.

  • Push/pull 100 lbs.

  • Stand on feet for long periods of time during a shift with intermittent breaks

  • Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provided by Cambria

  • Participate in daily stretch and flex exercises

  • Walk up and down steps multiple times throughout shift

  • Bend over multiple times throughout shift

Task Based Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements:

  • Steel toed boots

  • Hearing Protection

  • Safety glasses

  • Cut-proof gloves

  • Latex gloves

  • Face shield

  • High visibility vest

  • Respirator (employees who are required to wear a respirator must maintain a clean-shaven face in the area where the respirator seals to the skin.)

Cambria's starting hourly range for this position is $22.65 - $28.68. Hourly ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the target for new hires for the position. Individual pay is determined by several factors, including work location, job-related experience, and relevant education and/or training.

Cambria offers a competitive benefits package that encompasses Health and Dental Insurance, Paid Time Off, 7 paid Holidays , 401(k) plus matching, Discretionary Profit Sharing, Flexible Spending Account; Life, Supplemental Life, and Disability Insurance; Referral Program, Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Assistance Program, Employee Discount and Professional Development Assistance.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

At Cambria, dedication to philanthropy and our people is at the heart of who we are. We strive to make a meaningful difference in the world every day by prioritizing employee well-being and fostering inclusivity and empowerment. Under the banner of CambriaCares, our philanthropic endeavors show our commitment to our people and our community to uplift kids, support education, and contribute to a sustainable future.

For additional company information, please visit www.CambriaUSA.com

An offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background verification check, subject to applicable laws and regulations. The results will be reviewed based on the individual's record, and the specific duties and requirements of the job.