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Process Operations Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Process Operations Technician information

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$35

How much do process operations technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 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.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

Process Operations Technicians may see some routine tasks automated through advances in robotics and AI, potentially reducing demand for manual oversight roles. Jobs involving repetitive manual processes are increasingly being replaced by automated systems, but roles requiring complex problem-solving and technical skills are expected to persist. Overall, roles that rely heavily on manual labor with minimal technological integration are most at risk of disappearing by 2030.

What are Process Operations Technicians?

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 jobs make $10,000 a month without a degree?

Process Operations Technicians can earn around $10,000 a month with experience, specialized skills, and working in high-demand industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, or chemical processing. These roles often require technical training, certifications, and the ability to operate complex equipment, but typically do not require a college degree.

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.

What does a process operator technician do?

A process operations technician monitors and controls industrial processes to ensure safe and efficient production. They operate equipment, troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and follow safety protocols, often using control systems and instrumentation. The role requires attention to detail, technical skills, and sometimes certifications in safety or process technology.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Some high-paying roles for Process Operations Technicians or similar technical positions can reach $2,000 per day, especially in specialized industries like oil and gas, petrochemicals, or nuclear power, often requiring advanced certifications and extensive experience. These roles typically involve shift work, safety protocols, and technical expertise with control systems and process optimization.

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:
Infographic showing various Process Operations Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,319 per year, or $24.7 per hour.
HYCO Operations Technician I - Saraland, AL

HYCO Operations Technician I - Saraland, AL

Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc.

Saraland, AL

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Matheson rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The HYCO Operations Technician is responsible for the over site for day-to-day operations of the plant. Ensures that all production, quality and schedules requirements are met. Creates a culture that supports the Matheson Spirit with shift employees. Leads continuous improvement by supporting the employee training programs. Providing clear communication with the other three shifts, Maintenance Technicians and Site Management. Ensuring a safe work environment for employees. Assist in performing root cause analysis when issues arise and ensuring they are corrected.


MARKETING SUMMARY


JOB FUNCTIONS

This Job is Essential


Essential Functions

Essential Function

Principal Responsibilities Safety

- Understand and adhere to company safe work policies.

- Follow Lone Worker Requirements.

- Promote a safe work environment.

- Report safety incidents and near misses.

- Report any unsafe conditions, environmental concerns and process problems to management immediately.

- Contribute to the improvement of the Safety, Health, Environment and Quality programs.

- Apply the HWP process, LOTO and energy isolation procedures as required for company and contractor personnel.

- Follow EMOC procedure for all changes to process and operating procedures.

- Maintain site security.

- Maintain site orderliness.

- Perform safety indoctrinations for contractors. 

- Reliability, Utilize Computerized Maintenance Management System to execute, document and continuously improve equipment preventative and corrective maintenance strategy.

- Support Area Manager, Utilize Web based programs (TBD) to execute, document all corrective actions issued to the site from Audits and Incidents review (when applicable).

- Collect and interpret trends in equipment condition monitoring data.

- Maintain plant spares inventory and raise gaps to management attention.

- Follow work instructions and annotate with feedback.

- Perform and document process and product analyzers calibration checks.

- Set up and safely operate all tools and equipment necessary to perform assigned work. 

Process Operation and Efficiency

- Perform Shutdowns, Start-ups, and production rate changes for plant(s) in area.

- Monitor key process variables and maintain plant(s) in efficient steady state operation.

- Troubleshoot process problems to identify equipment requiring maintenance.

- Understand the cooling water treatment chemistry and perform water treatment tasks. 

Administrative and Managerial

- Follow all Quality Control requirements to ensure a quality product is delivered to Matheson's customers. Meet FDA requirements where applicable.

- Follow all Environmental guidelines and reporting requirements to ensure all applicable regulations are followed.

- Document in plant logbook date and time of all machinery start/stops, analyzer calibrations, process upsets, product losses, customer complaints, or any other major event(s).

- Maintain open continuous line of communication with all HYCO Managers.

- Complete required SHE site and safety equipment inspection forms.

- Maintain orderly and clean work in work shop and plant process areas.

- Direct and monitor contractors.

- Maintain production logs, perform operations data entry into Process Operation Record system.

- Lead and participate in operations and safety meetings.

- Participate in safety committee activities as required - drill planning, energy isolation reviews, etc...

- Complete all training activities according to schedule and meet annual performance goals.

- Support entry level Operations Technicians through coaching and mentoring.

- Check business email daily.

- Interface with Customer's Operations Team regarding Process Operations Changes and Safety related issues.

- Accept On call duty and overtime as required.

- Effectively prioritize and help to plan all maintenance work activities and operations schedules.

- Support sites outside of the home Area as required.

- Support plant and equipment commissioning activities.

- Mark-up engineering drawings to document changes or disparities.

- Identify cost effective solutions, follow company purchasing procedure and spending limitations. 

Key interfaces

- Area Managers

- Production Technicians

- Plant Engineer

- Instrument / Electrical Technician

- Mechanical Maintenance Technician

- Support Engineers

- Regional Staff- Contractors

- Customer Management/Production Technicians

Applicable competencies Business Acumen

- Required, Customer Focus

- Critical, Decision-Making and Execution

- Required, Embracing and Leading Change

- Required, Functional & Technical Competence

- Critical, Negotiation & Conflict Resolution

- Required, Personal Development

- Required, Process and Project and Risk Management

- Supportive


Required for All Jobs

Performs other duties as assigned

Complies with all policies and standards



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