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Process Operator Technician Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Thermal Spray Technician

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

... operating plasma spray equipment and robots/CNCs. Yaskawa Motoman DX100 and NX100 and CNCs Technician performs development, production, and surface finishing work for thermal spray coating processes ...

Operator, LETNA

Calvert, AL

$19 - $22.75/hr

The Equipment/Machine Operators perform all functions as it pertains to processing steel slab ... Work closely with Shift Maintenance Technician * Shoveling swarf from work areas * Other duties as ...

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Process Operator Technician information

See Alabama salary details

$12

$22

$32

How much do process operator technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operator technician in Alabama is $22.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a process operator technician?

Process Operator Technicians are skilled professionals responsible for monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the equipment and systems used in manufacturing or processing plants. They ensure that operations run smoothly, efficiently, and safely by following standard operating procedures, troubleshooting equipment issues, and making necessary adjustments. These technicians often work in industries such as oil and gas, chemical production, food processing, and pharmaceuticals, playing a critical role in maintaining product quality and plant safety.

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

To thrive as a Process Operator Technician, you need a solid understanding of mechanical systems, process control, and safety protocols, often supported by a technical diploma or relevant industry certification. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and industry-standard safety and quality systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of industrial processes in manufacturing or chemical plants.

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

AspectProcess Operator TechnicianProcess Operator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, chemical or oil refineriesSimilar industrial settings, operating and monitoring equipment
Job FocusTechnical troubleshooting, equipment maintenance, process optimizationMonitoring processes, operating equipment, ensuring safety

The Process Operator Technician and Process Operator roles share similar environments and basic qualifications. However, Process Operator Technicians often have additional technical training and focus more on troubleshooting and maintenance, while Process Operators primarily monitor and operate equipment. Both roles are essential in industrial settings, with the technician position typically requiring more specialized skills.

What are some common challenges faced by process operator technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Process Operator Technicians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected equipment issues, maintaining safety standards in a fast-paced environment, and managing shifts that may include nights or weekends. Staying proactive with regular equipment checks, participating in safety drills, and communicating effectively with team members can help address these challenges. Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies or process changes also play a key role in overcoming day-to-day obstacles and ensuring smooth operation.
Infographic showing various Process Operator Technician job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,515 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Sterile Processing Technician II

STERIS Corporation

Birmingham, AL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


STERIS rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 131 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

How You Will Make a Difference

Provides on-site support for the reprocessing of surgical instruments and trays to contracted and ORC facilities in compliance with the Department of Health, TJC, DNV, OSHA, CDC, AAMI and AORN standards and the facilities' goals and policies. shift 9:00 PM - 7:30 AM 4 days per week

Uses developed skills and practical knowledge to perform scheduled and unscheduled tasks independently.

What You Will Do
  • Supports daily operations of all activities that relate to the reprocessing of reusable medical supplies and instrumentation including decontamination, cleaning, assembly, wrapping, sterilization, and storage processes aligned with IP professional standards and regulations.
  • Operates all mechanical machinery within the department such as, but not limited to, cart washers, instrument washers, steam sterilizers, low temp sterilizers, ultrasonic and drying cabinets within sterile processing.
  • Works independently and proficiently in all areas of sterile processing including decontamination, cleaning, assembly, wrapping, sterilization, and storage area processes aligned with IP professional standards and regulations.
  • Reports broken and/or missing instrumentation and is able to anticipate replacement needs.
  • Uses established policies and procedures to complete work assignments.
  • Uses the implemented Track & Trace system established within the sterile processing department for all tasks and products processed.
  • Able to perform assembly on advanced instrument and vendor trays aligned with IP quality and production standards.
  • Supports department needs and work assignments including, but not limited to, Navigator assignment.
  • Assists in training of new employees with leadership discretion and direction.
  • Refers all decisions beyond personal scope of responsibilities to their Manager and or STERIS leadership if necessary.
  • Conducts quality assurance checks on instrument trays for accuracy and integrity, checking against count sheets, verifying sterilization indicators and packaging, etc., identifying damage or contamination and rerouting defective trays, documenting defects for continuous improvement, and collaborating with SPD leadership to enhance quality improvement and patient safety.
  • Participates in in-services and educational offerings provided by STERIS in the facility.
  • Responds and supports requests made by STERIS leadership with ensuring requested instrumentation is prioritized and available for Customer needs.
What You Need to Be Successful
  1. A high school diploma or equivalent required. Completion of a Sterile Processing/Surgical Technologist program preferred.
  2. 1 year of SPD or relatable experience (such as surgical or GI technician experience) and CRCST/CSPDT,or CST certification is required ORCER/CFER if dedicated assignment in Endo processing
  3. OR 2 years of SPD or relatable experience (such as surgical or GI technician experience), obtaining within 12 months of hire CRCST/CSPDT or CST certification is required ORCER/CFER if dedicated assignment in Endo processing
  4. Must maintain certification by completing 12 Continuing Education Credit Hours annually
  5. Demonstrated proficiency with most trays and the ability to perform all SPD responsibilities without close supervision.
  6. Able to perform all job requirements of a Technician I.
What We're Offering You in Return

STERIS is a global organization offering full time opportunities to join our growing team. We offer benefits including Medical/Vision/Dental, Paid Time Off, and a 401(k) with company match.

Our motto in the Sterile Processing Department is simple: 100% complete, 100% sterile, 100% on time. As a Sterile Processing Technician, you play a crucial role in making sure we live up to that standard. If you’re looking for the chance to impact dozens of people a day, and you want to further your career with a company that offers several opportunities for career development, click the apply button below. Let’s create a healthier and safer world, together.

Pay range for this opportunity is$20.84-$26.97.This position is eligible for bonus participation.

Minimum pay rates offered will comply with county/city minimums, if higher than range listed. Pay rates are based on a number of factors, including but not limited to local labor market costs, years of relevant experience, education, professional certifications, foreign language fluency, etc.

STERIS offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits portfolio. Click here for a complete list of benefits:STERIS Benefits

Open until position is filled.

STERIS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity to ensure that persons are recruited, hired, trained, transferred and promoted in all job groups regardless of race, color, religion, age, disability, national origin, citizenship status, military or veteran status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, and any other category protected by federal, state or local law. We are not only committed to this policy by our status as a federal government contractor, but also we are strongly bound by the principle of equal employment opportunity.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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