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Process Operator Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

Next Century Spirits Inc

Process Operator

Zebulon, NC · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Vision insurance Processing Operator - Next Century Spirits Who we are: Established in Raleigh, NC in 2018, Next Century Spirits blends traditional techniques and unique finishing technologies to ...

Next Century Spirits Inc

Process Operator

Zebulon, NC · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Processing Operator - Next Century Spirits Who we are: Established in Raleigh, NC in 2018, Next Century Spirits blends traditional techniques and unique finishing technologies to create enhanced ...

GlaxoSmithKline

Process Operator

Zebulon, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

As a Process Operator you will operates, challenges and cleans equipment, according to appropriate SOPs, JSAs, and batch documents to deliver high quality products manufactured in a safe way to ...

Next Century Spirits Inc

Process Operator

Zebulon, NC · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Processing Operator - Next Century Spirits Who we are: Established in Raleigh, NC in 2018, Next Century Spirits blends traditional techniques and unique finishing technologies to create enhanced ...

Darling Ingredients Inc.

Process Operator

Lewiston, NC · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Job Summary The Process Operator is responsible for the operation of the computer controlled process equipment, cooker, machinery, and evaluation of any process problems in addition to performing ...

Darling Ingredients

Process Operator

Lewiston Woodville, NC · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Job Summary The Process Operator is responsible for the operation of the computer controlled process equipment, cooker, machinery, and evaluation of any process problems in addition to performing ...

Darling Ingredients Inc.

Process Operator

Fayetteville, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Job Summary The Meat Process Operator is responsible for the operation of PLC to control the machinery. They must monitor pumps and grinders to ensure quality assurance. Work Schedule: Night Shift ...

Darling Ingredients Inc.

Process Operator

Lewiston, NC · On-site

$17.75 - $22.50/hr

Job SummaryThe Process Operator is responsible for the operation of the computer controlled process equipment, cooker, machinery, and evaluation of any process problems in addition to performing ...

Darling Ingredients Inc.

Process Operator

Fayetteville, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Job SummaryThe Meat Process Operator is responsible for the operation of PLC to control the machinery. They must monitor pumps and grinders to ensure quality assurance.Work Schedule: Night Shift; 11 ...

Darling Ingredients

Process Operator

Fayetteville, NC

$17.50 - $22/hr

Job Summary The Meat Process Operator is responsible for the operation of PLC to control the machinery. They must monitor pumps and grinders to ensure quality assurance. Work Schedule: Night Shift ...

GlaxoSmithKline

Senior Process Operator

Zebulon, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Operate, clean and maintain production equipment following standard operating procedures and batch documentation. * Monitor process performance and product quality. Escalate issues and support root ...

GSK

Senior Process Operator

Zebulon, NC · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Operate, clean and maintain production equipment following standard operating procedures and batch documentation. * Monitor process performance and product quality. Escalate issues and support root ...

Acara Solutions

Process Operator/Crane

Charlotte, NC

$18.50 - $23.50/hr

Process Operator/Crane Location: Charlotte, NC Employment: Contract (12 months) Potential to go Direct Industry: Manufacturing Compensation: $ 23.57/hr Schedule: 40 hours /week 3rd shift: 4 X 10 ...

Ingredion

Process Operator I

Winston Salem, NC · On-site

$27.11/hr

We're seeking Process Operators who are passionate about manufacturing and handling raw materials and finished products. If you're safety-focused, quality-driven, and thrive in a fast-paced ...

Kimberlyclark

Process Operator Entry

Hendersonville, NC · On-site

$25.87/hr

Process Operator Entry You were made to create Better Care for a Better World: this is your opportunity to operate a machine that produces top-notch products for of the world's population. Get ...

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Process Operator information

See North Carolina salary details

$12

$19

$28

How much do process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operator in North Carolina is $19.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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 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.

How much do process operators earn?

Process operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with certifications can earn higher wages, especially in facilities with shift work or hazardous environments.

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.
More about Process Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in North Carolina?

The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in North Carolina are:

What are popular job titles related to Process Operator jobs in North Carolina?

For Process Operator jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Process Operator jobs in North Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Process Operator jobs in North Carolina are:

What cities in North Carolina are hiring for Process Operator jobs?

Cities in North Carolina with the most Process Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Process Operator jobs in NC?

For Process Operator jobs in NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operator job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 7% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,973 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Process Operator

Zebulon, NC • On-site

Next Century Spirits Inc
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Next Century Spirits Incexternal

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Vision insurance

Processing Operator – Next Century Spirits
Who we are: Established in Raleigh, NC in 2018, Next Century Spirits blends traditional techniques and unique finishing technologies to create enhanced distilled spirits. Our patented post distillation filtering and finishing technology creates a tool for the traditional distiller to expand their repertoire of achievable flavors and aromas while improving quality, maintaining consistency, and reducing supply chain issues. This technology allows for tight control over the entire production process, resulting in the ability to create bold and unique flavor customization options for brands to choose from to expand product portfolios and fulfill market needs. As we have matured so to have our aspirations of developing our own portfolio of brands.
Primary Duty: Reporting to the Processing Lead, the Processing Operator is primarily responsible for batching, blending and preparing raw ingredients according to product formulas and required processing standards. This position is also responsible for ensuring that product is processed to the highest standards of quality, safety and efficiency.
Reports: Processing Lead
Job Responsibilities
  • Blend & batch ingredients following provided recipes to produce spirit-based beverages of specified flavor, color, clarity, and alcohol concentration.
  • Conduct and perform duties associated with production of distilled spirits products including but not limited to the following: distillation, proofing, blending, filtration, barreling, canning, bottling, carbonation, and performing sensory analysis.
  • Responsible for carefully reading and following batching instructions to ensure appropriate materials are weighed and measured to recipe specifications.
  • Observe gauges, valves, and thermometers to determine if processing parameters are within specified limits and ranges.
  • Observe and listen to equipment in order to detect possible malfunctions, such as leaks or plugging. Reports malfunctions or undesirable results to Processing Lead or Operations Manager.
  • Set up, operate, and maintain equipment that blends, mixes or processes raw ingredients in the production of alcoholic beverages, according to designated formulas and recipes.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed equipment work log, inventory, and lot control records. Responsible for properly transferring batching forms and other critical control information as instructed by Processing Lead and Operations Manager.
  • Monitor and review inventory levels in batching department to ensure resources are available at all times to achieve the most efficient operating conditions.
  • Receive all ingredients including bulk materials and follow all lot control instructions.
  • Responsible for cleaning and running Clean in Place (CIP) equipment and follow all applicable procedures.
  • Maintain assigned work area and production environment in clean and orderly condition.
  • Safely operates forklifts as needed to keep assigned work area supplied with necessary production materials.
  • Actively participate in shift exchanges and work team meetings.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards and with applicable regulatory requirements while following the company’s Good Manufacturing Practices.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Basic mathematical calculations skills
  • Ability to lift, carry and empty containers weighing up to 60 lbs repeatedly
  • Demonstrated organizational, detail orientation and observational skills
  • Ability to read and follow oral and written instructions in the English language
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, often with limited supervision
Preferred Qualifications
  • High School or Equivalency Diploma
  • One year experience in a manufacturing environment, ideally in the beverage industry
  • Previous forklift experience
  • Proficiency using a personal computer (PC) and related software, ideally Microsoft Office Tools (Outlook, Word, Excel)
  • Technical knowledge of distillation, batching, blending, and beverage cellar maintenance.
Physical Activity:
Regularly: Lift/Carry 60 lbs
Frequently: Push/Pull 60lbs, Reach Overhead, Stand, Walk/Move About
Occasionally: Climb, Squat/Bend/Kneel, Sit
Comments: Frequent time spent up and down stairs to platform with height above 6 ft.
Equipment Operated: hand trucks, pallet jacks, lifts, scales and forklifts
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance
Work Location: In person