ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Process Operator Co Op Jobs (NOW HIRING)

pca

INTERN/CO-OP PROCESS - Spring 2027

Filer City, MI · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

The primary function of the Process Engineer co-op student will be to assist the technical ... The ability to work with other lab personnel, operators, and supervisors is a requirement. * A ...

Viskase Companies, Inc.

Engineering Co-Op

Loudon, TN · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

The Engineering Co-Op Program provides students with hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment, supporting process improvement, quality, and efficiency initiatives. The program develops ...

KraussMaffei

Engineering Co-op

Florence, KY · On-site

Collate drawings and component information for machine manual Chemical Engineer Co-Op Duties: * Assist process engineers with customer and R&D trials * Apply engineering concepts to perform extrusion ...

Detroit Manufacturing Systems

Engineering Co-Op

Detroit, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

As an Engineering Co-Op at Detroit Manufacturing Systems, you will embark on a valuable and ... Contribute to process improvement initiatives within the engineering department. * Identify ...

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Engineering Co-Op

Greenville, NC · On-site

$21.50 - $28.75/hr

All projects will have significant strategic and/or operating importance to the business to which ... Become a process owner; critically review specific processes with great attention to detail and ...

Mariposa Incorporated

Co-op Clerk

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$15.50/hr

Mariposa Food Co-op is a community-owned grocery store dedicated to increasing food accessibility ... Accurately process transactions using our point-of-sale (POS) system and handle cash with care.

advansix

$25/hr

The Environmental co-op will be an integral member of the staff and be involved in current projects and process improvements initiatives. Environmental engineers and managers will assist in training ...

Mariposa Incorporated

Co-op Clerk

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$15.50/hr

Mariposa Food Co-op is a community-owned grocery store dedicated to increasing food accessibility ... Accurately process transactions using our point-of-sale (POS) system and handle cash with care.

dmsmanufacdet

Engineering Co-Op

Detroit, MI

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

As an Engineering Co-Op at Detroit Manufacturing Systems, you will embark on a valuable and ... Contribute to process improvement initiatives within the engineering department. * Identify ...

advansix

$25/hr

The Environmental co-op will be an integral member of the staff and be involved in current projects and process improvements initiatives. Environmental engineers and managers will assist in training ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProcess Operator Co Op Jobs

Process Operator Co Op information

See salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do process operator co op jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operator co op 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 Process Operator Co-Op do?

A Process Operator Co-Op is a student or recent graduate who works alongside experienced operators in manufacturing or industrial settings to learn and assist with the operation of machinery and equipment. Their responsibilities often include monitoring production processes, maintaining safety standards, recording data, and troubleshooting minor issues. Co-Ops gain hands-on experience, apply classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios, and often participate in projects or process improvements under supervision. This position helps prepare students for full-time roles in process operations after graduation.

What is the difference between Process Operator Co Op vs Process Technician?

AspectProcess Operator Co OpProcess Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, chemical or oil & gas plantsSimilar industrial settings, often more focused on troubleshooting and maintenance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed as a temporary or internship role for students or entry-level workersFull-time role with more responsibility for process control and troubleshooting

The Process Operator Co Op is typically an entry-level, temporary position aimed at students gaining industry experience, while a Process Technician is a full-time role with greater responsibility for maintaining and troubleshooting industrial processes. Both roles are common in manufacturing, chemical, and oil & gas industries, but they differ in scope and career progression.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Process Operator Co Op, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Process Operator Co Op, you need a solid understanding of process operations, safety procedures, and mechanical aptitude, often supported by coursework in engineering, technology, or related fields. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), process control systems, and industry-specific safety certifications such as WHMIS or OSHA is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of industrial processes, which is critical for productivity and workplace safety.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Process Operator Co Op expect to handle during their placement?

As a Process Operator Co Op, you can expect to be actively involved in monitoring and controlling manufacturing or production processes alongside experienced operators. Typical responsibilities include collecting and analyzing process data, performing routine equipment inspections, supporting troubleshooting activities, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. Co Op students often work on project assignments such as process optimization or efficiency improvements, and they collaborate closely with engineering, maintenance, and quality assurance teams. This hands-on experience provides a solid foundation for understanding plant operations and developing technical and teamwork skills.
What cities are hiring for Process Operator Co Op jobs? Cities with the most Process Operator Co Op job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Process Operator Co Op jobs? States with the most job openings for Process Operator Co Op jobs include:
Process Operator Co Op jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operator Co Op job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 61% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,984 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
INTERN/CO-OP PROCESS - Spring 2027

INTERN/CO-OP PROCESS - Spring 2027

pca

Filer City, MI • On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

Packaging Corporation Of America rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 110 rated packaging manufacturers

Job description

The primary function of the Process Engineer co-op student will be to assist the technical department in the completion of tasks that contribute to the efficient and cost-effective operation of the paper mill.

Responsibilities include:

  • Coordinate and evaluate trials on the paper machines, pulp mill, secondary fiber, or other parts of the mill.
  • Conduct routine pulp and paper tests that are required for evaluation of trials or for trouble shooting on the machines.
  • Monitor key process sensing equipment to determine accuracy and reliability. If a problem is detected implement the repair.
  • Conduct routine pulp quality tests on a weekly basis. These tests include efficiencies, consistencies, and critical solids verifications, along with any others tha6t are deemed necessary.
  • Conduct periodic monitoring of key consistency loops on stock chests. Also, interface with the E/l Department in order to improve loops that are not functioning correctly.
  • Order and maintain routine laboratory supplies and chemical solutions.
  • Assist in the start-up of paper machines from monthly shutdowns.
  • Conduct critical paper machine maintenance inspections.
  • Update lab MSDS's for materials and chemicals used in the lab.
  • Other duties as needs and interest arise.

Educational Requirements/Qualifications:

  • Must be currently enrolled student majoring in Chemical or Paper Engineering and have completed the freshman year but not surpassed senior status at University of Maine, Michigan Tech University, Western Michigan, Michigan State.
  • A minimum grade point average of 3.0/4.0 is required.
  • You must be eligible to work in the US on a full time basis.  

Abilities/Skills:

  • Strong written, verbal, analytical, and interpersonal skills are essential.
  • Candidate must display maturity and a high level of professionalism.

Employer Expectations:

  • The Co-op student must take ownership of their work and work area. 
  • The ability to work with other lab personnel, operators, and supervisors is a requirement. 
  • A positive work attitude is essential.

Housing/Relocation Information for Co-Op Term:

  • A housing stipend may be offered up to $1000 grossed-up per month if necessary
  • PCA will reimburse the student for the move to their new housing upon starting the co-op and return to school.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

Qualified Applicants must apply at careers.packagingcorp.com to be considered.

What Packaging Corporation Of America employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply