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Process Operator Jobs in New Jersey (NOW HIRING)

Machine Operator II

Morris Plains, NJ · On-site

$17.25 - $20.75/hr

PROCESS OPERATOR II Shift: 1st shift 6am-2:30pm 40 hours/week Job Summary: Responsible for multi machine operation including Gallus printing presses, slitting equipment, blister machine and label ...

Batching Operator

Bridgeton, NJ · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

Process Operator will be responsible for coordinating with QA personnel regarding correct ingredients and formulations prior to batching, coordinating the delivery of ingredients for batching, and ...

Batching Operator

Bridgeton, NJ · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

Process Operator will be responsible for coordinating with QA personnel regarding correct ingredients and formulations prior to batching, coordinating the delivery of ingredients for batching, and ...

Batching Operator

Bridgeton, NJ

$18 - $21.75/hr

Process Operator will be responsible for coordinating with QA personnel regarding correct ingredients and formulations prior to batching, coordinating the delivery of ingredients for batching, and ...

Batching Operator

Bridgeton, NJ · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

Process Operator will be responsible for coordinating with QA personnel regarding correct ingredients and formulations prior to batching, coordinating the delivery of ingredients for batching, and ...

Batching Operator

Bridgeton, NJ · On-site

$18 - $21.75/hr

Process Operator will be responsible for coordinating with QA personnel regarding correct ingredients and formulations prior to batching, coordinating the delivery of ingredients for batching, and ...

Batching Operator

Bridgeton, NJ

$18 - $21.75/hr

Process Operator will be responsible for coordinating with QA personnel regarding correct ingredients and formulations prior to batching, coordinating the delivery of ingredients for batching, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Process Operator information

See New Jersey salary details

$14

$21

$31

How much do process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operator in New Jersey is $21.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.56 and $23.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Process Operator vs Maintenance Technician?

AspectProcess OperatorMaintenance Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical certifications or trade licenses often required
Work EnvironmentFactories, plants, or industrial facilities operating machinery and equipmentIndustrial or manufacturing settings focusing on equipment repair and maintenance
Job FocusMonitoring, controlling, and optimizing production processesMaintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting machinery and equipment

While both roles work in industrial environments, Process Operators focus on running and controlling production processes, whereas Maintenance Technicians specialize in repairing and maintaining equipment. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right career path in manufacturing and industrial sectors.

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

To thrive as a Process Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial processes, safety protocols, and typically a high school diploma or relevant technical certification. Familiarity with control systems like DCS/SCADA, equipment maintenance, and safety certifications such as OSHA are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation of machinery, minimizing risks and maximizing productivity in industrial settings.

What does a process operator do?

A process operator is a skilled industrial professional who works as part of a team, or individually, to manage a safe and effective production process within a manufacturing plant, facility, or refinery. Process operators are charged with monitoring the equipment, machinery, and instruments within the facility and troubleshooting when issues arise. As a process operator, it is important to inspect equipment and maintain records of all updates, repairs, and replacements.

How much do process operators make in the US?

Process operators in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing, chemical, or energy sectors where technical skills are valued.

Is it hard to be a process operator?

Being a process operator involves monitoring and controlling industrial equipment, which requires attention to detail, technical skills, and adherence to safety protocols. The job can be physically demanding and often involves shift work, but with proper training and certifications, it is manageable for many individuals.

What is a process operator?

Process Operators are professionals responsible for managing and overseeing the machinery and systems that produce goods in industries such as manufacturing, chemical processing, and oil and gas. Their duties include monitoring equipment, adjusting controls to maintain quality and safety, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during production. They play a critical role in ensuring production runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely, often working as part of a larger operations team. Process Operators must adhere to strict safety protocols and may be required to document production data or perform routine maintenance.

What are some common challenges faced by process operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Process Operators often work in rotating shifts to ensure continuous plant operation, which can present challenges such as adjusting to changing sleep schedules and managing fatigue. To address these issues, operators are encouraged to maintain healthy sleep habits, communicate openly with team members about workload distribution, and utilize scheduled breaks effectively. Many facilities also offer training on shift work management and provide support resources to help employees adapt, ensuring both safety and productivity are maintained.
What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in New Jersey? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in New Jersey are:
What are popular job titles related to Process Operator jobs in New Jersey? For Process Operator jobs in New Jersey, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Process Operator jobs in New Jersey look for? The top searched job categories for Process Operator jobs in New Jersey are:
What cities in New Jersey are hiring for Process Operator jobs? Cities in New Jersey with the most Process Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Process Operator jobs in NJ? For Process Operator jobs in NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Process Operator job openings in New Jersey as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,654 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

2nd Shift Processing Operator

Dr. Praeger's Sensible Foods Inc

Elmwood Park, NJ

$17/hr

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Position Description: Dr. Praegers was founded in 1994 with the mission to bring delicious frozen food to everyone. Its not every day that two heart surgeons get into the food business, but over 20 years ago thats exactly what our dads did. Motivated by what they saw in their practice, our parents set out on a mission to encourage sensible eating. They knew ingredients had to be nutritious and simple, that everything had to be delicious, and that their products needed to be super simple to make. While the world has changed since our little family business first got started, our focus remains true to our dads vision, and we work every day to make them proud. To learn more visit: Dr. Praeger's History
Responsibilities:
Patty Press Set Up
Use the correct patty plate and metal guide bars for the item you are running, and set up line conveyors, fryers, and the freezer to the proper temperatures.
Check and add Oil when necessary.
Must be able to Operate an (Electric Pallet Jack) Safely and properly.
Patty Presses area must be kept clean, Including catch pans and Floor drains.
Report issues of equipment failure to the appropriate department head (i.e. supervisor/maintenance), quickly identify these problems, and find ways to resolve them, so as to minimize downtime and daily goals without compromising the safety and quality of the product.
Ensure that the product meets target weights, Fry times, and temperature throughout production.
Ensure that all members of Dr. Praegers team are following company policies and that SAFETY and QUALITY regulations are being enforced to be our #1 priority.
Ensure that GMP requirements by all workers are followed.
Inspect the product to determine that the quality of the product meets QA standards and report any issues to the supervisor /and Manager.
Complete and submit all required production documentation in compliance with GMP and verify the accuracy of all information.
Maintain sanitary machines, equipment, and conveyors.
Physical requirements:
Ability to lift and carry at least 50 lbs.
Must be able to stand/walk for extended periods of time and frequently push, pull, bend, and reach.
Skills (required):
Strong communication skills
Ability to work in a team environment.
Bilingual preferred
Disclaimer: Employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodation will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.
Dr. Praeger's Sensible Foods is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability, or handicap, sex, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, arrest record, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. Our management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment.

$17.00 - $17.00 Hourly