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Plant Process Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Process Operator

Las Vegas, NV ยท On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Process Operator Reporting to the Shift Supervisor, the Process Operator is responsible for ... The Plant Operator must possess sufficient mobility to be able to perform housekeeping and/or ...

Process Operator

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$18.25 - $23/hr

: Process Operator Huntsman is seeking a Process Operator supporting the Operations Division located ... Alternatively, 5+ years of chemical plant experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree, with ...

Process Operator

Freeport, TX ยท On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

We are looking for a Process Operator located in Freeport, Texas . If you are a passionate ... Operate and maintain equipment related to plant utilities and waste treatment. * Operate all ...

Process Operator

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$18.25 - $23/hr

In the absence of Plant Coordinator be able to act as Incident Commander to manage emergency responses to completion or until relieved. * Complies with all process operator certification requirements ...

Process Operator

Hankinson, ND ยท On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

As a Process Operator, you will be responsible for the operation of the plant, working a 12-hour rotating shift schedule, to ensure maximum production quantity and quality, while supporting the ...

Process Operator

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$18.25 - $23/hr

: Process Operator Huntsman is seeking a Process Operator supporting the Operations Division located ... Alternatively, 5+ years of chemical plant experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree, with ...

Process Operator

Mesa, AZ

$18.25 - $23/hr

In the absence of Plant Coordinator be able to act as Incident Commander to manage emergency responses to completion or until relieved. * Complies with all process operator certification requirements ...

Process Operator

York, NE ยท On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

Follow Standard Operating Procedures for plant start-up, shut down, cleaning and batching. * Stay within operating parameters set by Plant/Production Manager and notify management of any production ...

Process Operator

Marcus Hook, PA ยท On-site

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Operator is responsible for the safe operation of associate process and equipment. The operator ... Prefer candidate with a chemical plant or industrial plant background * High school diploma or ...

Process Operator

Freeport, TX ยท On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

We are looking for a Process Operator located in Freeport, Texas . If you are a passionate ... Operate and maintain equipment related to plant utilities and waste treatment. * Operate all ...

$18.75 - $23.75/hr

In the absence of Plant Coordinator be able to act as Incident Commander to manage emergency responses to completion or until relieved. Complies with all process operator certification requirements ...

Process Operator

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$18.25 - $23/hr

In the absence of Plant Coordinator be able to act as Incident Commander to manage emergency responses to completion or until relieved. * Complies with all process operator certification requirements ...

Process Operator

Mount Vernon, IN ยท On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

It is expected that each operator learn both the plant operations from the field and the DCS ... Learn all facets of the ethanol process including: cook, distillation, evaporation, dryers, thermo ...

Process Operator - Lakota Ethanol Plant

Lakota, IA ยท On-site

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

As a Process Operator you will oversee the daily operation of an assigned area of the production process within the plant. Working a 12-hour rotating shift schedule while maintaining a safe work ...

Operator is responsible for the safe operation of associate process and equipment. The operator ... Prefer candidate with a chemical plant or industrial plant background * High school diploma or ...

Process Operator

Freeport, TX ยท On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

We are looking for a Process Operator located in Freeport, Texas . If you are a passionate ... Operate and maintain equipment related to plant utilities and waste treatment. * Operate all ...

Showing results 21-40

Plant Process Operator information

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$14

$21

$31

How much do plant process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for plant process operator in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $23.08 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.
More about Plant Process Operator jobs

What cities are hiring for Plant Process Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Plant Process Operator job openings:

What states have the most Plant Process Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Plant Process Operator jobs include:

Infographic showing various Plant Process Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,984 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Process Operator

Vensure Employer Services

Las Vegas, NV โ€ข On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Process Operator

Reporting to the Shift Supervisor, the Process Operator is responsible for ensuring that his/her circuits are operated as per specified Key Input Variables while maintaining a safe working environment. This position entails the operation of a variety of metallurgical unit operations and ancillary equipment. The Plant Operator must possess sufficient mobility to be able to perform housekeeping and/or sampling and analysis duties in areas which may be awkward or difficult to reach. The operator must be physically able to use a variety of physical and chemical testing equipment. The operator must be able to operate mobile equipment such as forklifts and scissor lifts and must be able to go up/down stairs multiple times per shift. This position requires the operator to work a variety of shift schedules including night shifts.


Job Requirements & Qualifications
Responsibilities:

·         Be a safety leader, adhere to and sponsor safety and environmental rules and procedures

·        Observe all applicable safety, quality, environmental and hygiene regulations

·        Identify potential safety hazards, take immediate action to correct the hazard and report the situation to supervisory personnel on site

·        General operation of assigned circuit. This may include but not limited to calculation and measurement of flow rates, startup/shutdown of circuit equipment, handling and mixing of reagents.

·        Monitor process parameters and respond to alarms

·        Review and analyze data to achieve process optimization through circuit adjustments

·        Maintain proper sample/testing documentation such as Chain of Custody, Certificate of Analysis, etc.

·        General housekeeping and minor maintenance duties

·        Communicate end of the day information regarding process changes and issues to Shift Supervisors and senior management.


Required Qualifications:

·        Minimum High School Diploma with operational experience, technical school diploma in a relevant field, or in a co-op engineering program

·        Previous plant experience in an operation role or in testing environment would be an asset

·        Ability to multi-task, have strong organizational skills, a motivated self-starter, and able to work well under pressure to get results

·        Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to work well as a team player or individually

·        Must be able to communicate in both verbal and written form and be capable of maintaining neat and accurate records and logs of plant operation

·        Ability to learn additional processes

·        Flexible to work shifts (including night shifts)

·        Prior supervisory experience is considered an asset