1

Plant Process Operator Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

Develop comprehensive Operations and Engineering procedures to support new and enhanced as well as special operating modes of the CP facility * Provide Process Engineering support for plant shutdowns ...

Develop comprehensive Operations and Engineering procedures to support new and enhanced as well as special operating modes of the CP facility * Provide Process Engineering support for plant shutdowns ...

Process Engineer

Sulphur, LA · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

This position requires a strong plant presence, with an expectation of being onsite at least 4 days ... Develop and revise operating procedures as required The Process Engineer will leverage their ...

Chemical Operator - Day Shift

Darrow, LA · On-site

$17 - $19.50/hr

The Operator will perform basic maintenance repair and upkeep on area equipment. Job tasks are ... Operate, monitor and control plant systems; visually inspect, monitor equipment and process ...

Chemical Operator

Bastrop, LA · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

The Chemical Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of plant processes and equipment. The person must possess excellent communication skills necessary to keep Supervisor and ...

Chemical Operator

Bastrop, LA · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

The Chemical Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of plant processes and equipment. The person must possess excellent communication skills necessary to keep Supervisor and ...

Chemical Operator

Bastrop, LA · On-site

$15.25 - $17.50/hr

The Chemical Operator is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of plant processes and equipment. The person must possess excellent communication skills necessary to keep Supervisor and ...

Ensure all machine operators receive training that improves their level of knowledge and proficiency of safe plant operations. * Possess a deep understanding of all manufacturing processes and ...

Ensure all machine operators receive training that improves their level of knowledge and proficiency of safe plant operations. * Possess a deep understanding of all manufacturing processes and ...

Ensure all machine operators receive training that improves their level of knowledge and proficiency of safe plant operations. * Possess a deep understanding of all manufacturing processes and ...

The Supervisor will be responsible for overseeing operations and processing of waste at the Baton ... Review all applicable standard operating procedures (SOP's) and scores satisfactorily on quizzes;

The Supervisor will be responsible for overseeing operations and processing of waste at the Baton ... Review all applicable standard operating procedures (SOP's) and scores satisfactorily on quizzes;

The Supervisor will be responsible for overseeing operations and processing of waste at the Baton ... Review all applicable standard operating procedures (SOP's) and scores satisfactorily on quizzes;

$90 - $120/hr

These plants utilize steam methane reforming, cryogenic processing, and PSA/TSA purification ... Strong plant operating experience in similar plants or operations of similar complexity.A track ...

Plant Engineer

Luling, LA · On-site

$85 - $130/hr

These plants utilize steam methane reforming, cryogenic processing, and PSA/TSA purification ... Strong plant operating experience in similar plants or operations of similar complexity. * A track ...

Showing results 41-60

Plant Process Operator information

See Louisiana salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do plant process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant process operator in Louisiana is $18.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a plant process operator do?

A Plant Process Operator is responsible for overseeing and managing the machinery and equipment that produce or process industrial materials, such as chemicals, oil, gas, or food products. Their duties typically include monitoring systems, adjusting controls, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring safety regulations are followed. Operators also troubleshoot issues, collect data, and report on production outcomes. They play a crucial role in maintaining efficient and safe plant operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a plant process operator?

To thrive as a Plant Process Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial processes, safety regulations, and equipment operation, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with process control systems (such as SCADA or DCS), maintenance tools, and safety protocols like OSHA standards is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and reliable plant operations, minimizing downtime and supporting overall production goals.

What are some common challenges faced by plant process operators and how can they be effectively managed?

Plant Process Operators often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to equipment malfunctions, maintaining strict safety and environmental compliance, and managing multiple processes simultaneously during peak production times. Effective communication with maintenance teams and supervisors is crucial for resolving technical issues promptly. Staying up-to-date with safety protocols and participating in ongoing training can help operators handle unexpected situations with confidence and maintain smooth plant operations.

What is the difference between Plant Process Operator vs Chemical Plant Operator?

AspectPlant Process OperatorChemical Plant Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires safety and equipment operation certificationsHigh school diploma; may require specific chemical handling certifications
Work EnvironmentFactories, power plants, manufacturing facilitiesChemical processing plants, refineries, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsagePower generation, manufacturing, utilitiesChemical manufacturing, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals
Job FunctionsOperate and monitor equipment, ensure safety, perform routine maintenanceOperate chemical processing equipment, monitor chemical reactions, ensure safety protocols

Both roles involve operating and monitoring industrial equipment, but Chemical Plant Operators focus specifically on chemical processes and handling hazardous materials, often requiring specialized chemical certifications. Plant Process Operators have a broader scope across various industries like power and manufacturing. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit based on their skills and interests.

How much do plant process operators earn?

Plant process operators typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $45,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often require technical skills, safety certifications, and familiarity with control systems and equipment.

Is a plant process operator a hard job?

A plant process operator job can be physically and mentally demanding, requiring attention to detail, technical skills, and the ability to work in shifts or under pressure. The role involves monitoring equipment, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring safety protocols are followed, which can be challenging but manageable with proper training and experience.

Where do plant process operators make the most money?

Plant process operators tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong industrial or energy sector, such as areas with large manufacturing plants, refineries, or power plants. Factors like experience, certifications, and the complexity of the facility also influence earning potential, with operators in specialized or high-demand industries generally earning more.
Infographic showing various Plant Process Operator job openings in Louisiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,612 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Process Control Superintendent

Westlake

Lake Charles, LA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Westlake Chemical rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 104 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

SUMMARY

Leads the Lake Charles PE&O automation group servicing the Lake Charles Petro Facilities.Meets internal customer requirements for the maintenance and application of automation technologies to sustain and improve the plant's processes and communication systems.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

May include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Supervises and assigns work to process automation personnel.

  • Oversees training of process automation personnel and evaluates proficiencies.

  • Provides performance/developmental goals and conducts performance assessment reviews for process automation personnel per Company guidelines.

  • Oversees development of capital upgrade/improvement plan for process automation and safety instrumented systems' hardware and software.

  • Provides leadership in collaboration with the Instrument Reliability Superintendent to ensure the site's Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) program complies with IEC 61511/ISA 84 standards and Westlake policies, while supporting ongoing system reliability, performance monitoring, and lifecycle management.

  • Oversees and coordinates compliance with automation systems' industry standards, including IEC 62443/NIST 82 and with similar Westlake security policy.

  • Coordinates and prioritizes efforts of available resources to deliver on-time and on-budget completion of tasks and projects.

  • Coordinates Process Automation Systems coverage and technical support during planned and unplanned operational events, including unit startups, shutdowns, turnarounds, freeze protection activities, severe weather responses, and other critical operating conditions, ensuring automation system reliability, timely issue resolution, and safe plant operations.

  • Collaborates with the Instrument Reliability Superintendent to develop and execute the site's digitalization strategy, leveraging advanced automation, data analytics, artificial intelligence, connected worker technologies, and emerging Industry 4.0 solutions to enhance operational excellence, asset reliability, and business performance.

  • Provides information to IE&C Manager in order to prepare annual expense budget.

  • Develops and maintains procedures and standards in the automation systems' environment to continuously improve existing processes.

  • Develops and maintains strong relationships with all internal and external stakeholders (e.g. operations, engineering, site and corporate EHS consultants and vendors).

  • Researches current automation systems' industry initiatives, best practices, and standards in order to appraise applicability, leverage, and benefit the facility.

  • Attracts and retains strong technical resources and supports the growth and development of technical team members.

  • Provide monthly SIS KPI report to PSM Department by required date.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

A current, valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card is required.

Bachelor degree in the field of Engineering strongly preferred.

10+ years of in the Industrial Automation sector.

BPCS experience with ABB, Honeywell, or DeltaV and Triconex Safety Systems is preferred.

Solid understanding of the chemical process environment.

Extensive knowledge of process control systems and solutions.

Knowledge and experience in application and compliance of Safety Instrumented Systems.

Certified Functional Safety Expert (CFSE) or equivalent strongly preferred.

Project management skills, including organizing, tracking, reporting and record keeping.

Familiarity with NFPA and API Standards strongly preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, or crouch.The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, as normally based in an office.Some of the work may be required in the operating units which can require usage of required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, etc. May also result in exposure to outside elements and may require usage of stairs and elevators.Travel including air travel or auto travel may occasionally be required.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here.You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.


What Westlake Chemical employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom