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Plant Process Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Fujifilm

Process Operator

Mesa, AZ · 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 ...

CaptiveAire

Plant Process Engineer

West Union, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Training operators in proper process, tool usage, and tool maintenance. * Collaborating with other engineering teams on process efficiency, quality, and safety improvement projects. * Developing new ...

FUJIFILM Biotechnologies

$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 ...

ChampionX

Process Operator

Freeport, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

ChampionX

Process Operator

Freeport, TX

$17.25 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

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 ...

Green Plains Renewable Energy, Inc.

Process Operator

York, NE

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Valero Energy

Process Operator - Lakota Ethanol Plant

Lakota, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

Valero

Process Operator - Bluffton Ethanol Plant

Bluffton, IN

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

Valero

Process Operator - Hartley Ethanol Plant

Hartley, IA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

Grain Processing Corporation

PROCESS OPERATOR

Washington, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

The Process Operator will operate equipment for the manufacturing of grain byproducts! * This ... plant when problems arise. EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND/OR QUALIFICATIONS: * High School Diploma or ...

Green Plains Inc.

Process Operator

York, NE

$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 ...

Valero

Process Operator - Albion Ethanol Plant

Albion, NE

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

Valero Energy

Process Operator - Albion Ethanol Plant

Albion, NE · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

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 ...

Heartland Corn Products

Process Operator

Winthrop, MN · On-site

$25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The yeast propagation process requires the operator to dump 50-pound bags of yeast into the yeast ... Sampling and monitoring of the equipment in the plant requires the operators to monitor some ...

Green Plains Inc.

Process Operator

Central City, NE · On-site

$19 - $24/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 ...

Green Plains, Inc.

Process Operator

York, NE · On-site

$18.75 - $23.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Green Plains Inc.

Process Operator

Wood River, NE · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/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 ...

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Plant Process Operator information

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$14

$21

$31

How much do plant process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 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 is the role of a plant process operator?

A plant process operator is responsible for controlling and monitoring industrial equipment and processes in a manufacturing or power plant setting. They operate control systems, perform routine inspections, and ensure safety and efficiency standards are maintained, often requiring technical skills and safety certifications. Their work involves managing equipment to produce consistent, safe, and efficient output.

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 working in hazardous environments can also influence earning potential.

How much is a plant process operator paid in the USA?

The average annual salary for a plant process operator in the USA is approximately $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages, often working shifts in industrial environments.

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 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 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 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.

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:

Plant Process Operator jobs near you
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, 15% Part Time, 4% 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

Grain Processing Corporation

Washington, IN

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Ready to join a US Best Managed Company?! Grain Processing Corporation, a member of the KENT WORLDWIDE family of companies, has an exciting opportunity to join their team as a Process Operator! The Process Operator will operate equipment for the manufacturing of grain byproducts!

  • This position is designed and intended to be performed in Washington, IN.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Maintain good operating condition of all equipment.
  • Identify and troubleshoot mechanical issues of equipment.  Write work orders for mechanical or electrical repair as needed. 
  • Perform housekeeping duties to ensure a safe and clean work area.
  • Work with minimal supervision to maintain the process flow and meet or exceed production schedules.
  • Keep precise records of production, quality, and environmental impacts in a daily log.
  • Pull product samples and perform quality checks using calibrated equipment or measurement tools, and record if applicable.
  • Pull product samples and ensure that the lab inspector/runner delivers them to the lab in a timely manner.  Communicate with QC lab personnel to ensure quality results are in spec.
  • Perform work in accordance with all safety and environmental rules and regulations.  Report potential incidents or actual incidents through the Incident Reporting Procedure.
  • Assist with the handling, storage, and flow of finished product through the warehouse and packaging area.
  • Facilitate or assist rail or truck loading and unloading of product.
  • Perform other duties as needed to support the GPC operation.
  • Assist other production operators throughout the plant when problems arise.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND/OR QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School Diploma or above 
  • Computer proficiency
  • Ability to speak, read, and write English
  • Reasoning and problem-solving skills
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Ability to work independently

  • Non-climate-controlled environment (working in and around heat and cold).

  • Be able to work in an environment with dust or dirt.

  • 12-hour rotating shift operation – rotate from days to nights every two weeks.  This includes nights, weekends, and holidays.

  • Must be able to climb ladders, stairs, and work at heights.

  • Must be able to work in confined spaces.

  • Must wear protective equipment (hard hat, steel or composite toe shoes/boots, safety glasses, ear protection, and respirator)

  • Ability to lift up to 55 lbs

TRAVEL:

  • 0-10%

OTHER:

  • Smoke and tobacco-free workplace

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