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$13

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$35

How much do process operations technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operations technician in the United States is $24.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $28.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a process operations technician a good career?

A process operations technician is a stable career in industries like manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemical processing, involving monitoring and maintaining production equipment. It often requires technical skills, certifications, and adherence to safety protocols, with opportunities for advancement and good job stability. The role can offer competitive pay and benefits, especially with experience and specialized training.

What is a process operations technician?

Process Operations Technicians are skilled professionals responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the equipment and processes used in industries such as manufacturing, chemical processing, oil and gas, and power generation. They ensure that production runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently by following strict operational procedures and responding to alarms or issues as they arise. Their tasks often include operating machinery, taking readings, performing routine maintenance, and troubleshooting problems to minimize downtime and maintain product quality. Process Operations Technicians play a vital role in meeting production targets while adhering to safety and environmental regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a process operations technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Process Operations Technician, you need a strong understanding of process control, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a technical diploma or associate degree in process technology or a related field. Familiarity with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), and knowledge of industry-standard safety certifications like OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of industrial processes, minimizing downtime and maintaining product quality.

What is the difference between Process Operations Technician vs Process Engineer?

AspectProcess Operations TechnicianProcess Engineer
CredentialsAssociate degree or technical certificationBachelor's degree in engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentHands-on, plant floor, shift workDesign, analysis, and process optimization
Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, oil & gas plantsProcess design, improvement, and project management

The Process Operations Technician primarily focuses on operating and maintaining equipment on the plant floor, ensuring smooth daily operations. In contrast, the Process Engineer is involved in designing processes, optimizing efficiency, and implementing improvements. Both roles are essential in manufacturing and chemical industries, but they differ in responsibilities, required education, and work scope.

Where do process operations technicians make the most money?

Process operations technicians tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong industrial or manufacturing presence, such as areas with large chemical, oil, or power plants. Factors like experience, certifications, and working in facilities with advanced automation can also increase earning potential.

What are some common challenges faced by process operations technicians, and how can they be effectively managed?

Process Operations Technicians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, maintaining stringent safety protocols, and adapting to rapidly changing production demands. Effective management of these challenges involves thorough understanding of plant processes, proactive equipment inspections, and open communication with engineering and maintenance teams. Staying updated on safety procedures and participating in ongoing training also help technicians respond efficiently to unexpected issues and contribute positively to team operations.
More about Process Operations Technician jobs
What states have the most Process Operations Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Process Operations Technician jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Process Operations Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Process Operations Technician jobs are:
Process Operations Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operations Technician 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 $51,319 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Process Operations Technician

BASF Corporation

Appleton, WI • On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

BASF rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 82 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 100 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Join BASF, where we champion industrial advancement through the chemistry of collaboration and a commitment to sustainability. As a leading name in the chemical sector, we bridge industries by innovating for a better tomorrow.

We foster a workplace dedicated to safety and development, nurturing a dynamic environment ripe for personal achievement.

Your Journey as a Process Operations Technician…

  • Are you enthusiastic about working with chemicals and machinery, ensuring precision and safety at every step? Your responsibilities will encompass the orchestration of chemical processes, assuring product integrity, and actively engaging with maintenance and process safety workflows.
  • Regularly scheduled shifts are weekdays from early morning till midafternoon or afternoon till evening, with possible overtime for exigent projects or shutdowns.
  • Lead safety and cleanliness initiatives, powered by a proactive safety ownership mindset.
  • Handle material transactions and quality management using computer platforms.

Essential Qualifications:

  • A foundational high school diploma or GED complemented by at least a year’s experience in a relevant field.
  • Physical ability to lift weights up to 50 pounds and navigate through various sections of the facility using stairs and ladders.
  • Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office products.

Preferred Expertise:

  • Significant experience within the chemical production landscape (3+ years).
  • Advanced understanding of ERP systems like SAP.
  • Operational knowledge of automated control systems such as DCS/PLC.

Expected Skill Sets:

  • Forklift operation competency and certification.
  • Ability to set up and manage production machinery operations.
  • Familiarity with basic manual machining processes.

Compensation will be tailored to match your expertise and experience.

What BASF employees say

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About BASF

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

BASF Corporation, headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has approximately 16,000 employees in North America and had sales of $25.7 billion in 2022. At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. More than 111,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises six segments: Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, Surface Technologies, Nutrition & Care and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of €87.3 billion in 2022. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the U.S.

Industry

Chemical manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Florham Park, NJ, US

Year founded

1865

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