1

Process Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Process Operator

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$47K - $70K/yr

... process equipment to produce finished products. The position supports production operations, assists with training new operators, and may provide coverage for the Lead Technician as needed. Key ...

Kraft Heinz - Winchester Process Operator Department: Process Position Type: Hourly Hourly Wage: $27.38 Function: Operations The statements included in this Position Description reflect, in general ...

... process equipment to produce finished products. The position supports production operations, assists with training new operators, and may provide coverage for the Lead Technician as needed. Key ...

Process Operator

Linville, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/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 ...

... process equipment to produce finished products. The position supports production operations, assists with training new operators, and may provide coverage for the Lead Technician as needed. Key ...

Union Process Operator

Chesapeake, VA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

As an Oilseed Process Operator, you will operate grain handling and oilseed crush equipment to ensure consistent product quality, efficient production flow, and on time delivery to our customers. You ...

Union Process Operator

Chesapeake, VA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

As an Oilseed Process Operator, you will operate grain handling and oilseed crush equipment to ensure consistent product quality, efficient production flow, and on time delivery to our customers. You ...

Union Process Operator

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

As an Oilseed Process Operator, you will operate grain handling and oilseed crush equipment to ensure consistent product quality, efficient production flow, and on time delivery to our customers. You ...

Union Process Operator

Chesapeake, VA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

As an Oilseed Process Operator, you will operate grain handling and oilseed crush equipment to ensure consistent product quality, efficient production flow, and on time delivery to our customers. You ...

Kraft Heinz - Winchester Process Operator/Juice Blending Department: Process Position Type: Hourly Hourly Wage: $27.38 Function: Operations The statements included in this Position Description ...

Technical Process Operator (Zipper)

Amherst, VA

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

The purpose of the Technical Process Operator role is to control, operate, and maintain multiple pieces of high-speed bag making production equipment. Safely and efficiently conduct changeovers and ...

Technical Process Operator (Zipper)

Amherst, VA

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

The purpose of the Technical Process Operator role is to control, operate, and maintain multiple pieces of high-speed bag making production equipment. Safely and efficiently conduct changeovers and ...

Technical Process Operator (Zipper)

Amherst, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

The purpose of the Technical Process Operator role is to control, operate, and maintain multiple pieces of high-speed bag making production equipment. Safely and efficiently conduct changeovers and ...

Technical Process Operator (Zipper)

Amherst, VA · On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

The purpose of the Technical Process Operator role is to control, operate, and maintain multiple pieces of high-speed bag making production equipment. Safely and efficiently conduct changeovers and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Process Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$20

$30

How much do process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operator in Virginia is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $22.88 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.

What are Process Operators?

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 Virginia? The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Process Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Process Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Process Operator jobs in VA? For Process Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Process Operator

Process Operator

Solenis

Suffolk, VA • On-site

$47K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Solenis rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 89 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Solenis is a leading global provider of water and hygiene solutions. The company's product portfolio includes a broad array of water treatment chemistries, process aids, functional additives, cleaners, disinfectants, and state-of-the-art monitoring, control and delivery systems. These technologies are used by customers to improve operational efficiencies, enhance product quality, protect plant assets, minimize environmental impact, and create cleaner and safer environments. Headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, the company has 78 manufacturing facilities strategically located around the globe and employs a team of over ~23000 professionals in >160 countries across six continents. Solenis is a 2025 Best Managed Company Gold Standard honoree.
For additional information about Solenis, please visit www.solenis.com or follow us on social media.
This job exists to ensure production plants are operated in a safe, compliant, and timely manner to meet the required internal and external demands, specifications and regulations.
Join Our Team & Earn a $2,000 Sign-On Bonus!
(paid after 90 days of successful employment.)
This role is responsible for performing a range of assigned duties to control, monitor, and operate process equipment to produce finished products. The position supports production operations, assists with training new operators, and may provide coverage for the Lead Technician as needed.
Key Responsibilities
  • Operate, control, and continuously monitor process equipment to ensure safe operations and high product quality.
  • Identify, report, and assist in troubleshooting equipment issues, including leaks, malfunctions, unusual noises, and abnormal operating conditions.
  • Perform required quality control sampling, cleaning procedures, and plant-specific tasks in accordance with established procedures and task lists.
  • Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe work environment while complying with all company safety regulations, work rules, and Responsible Care® requirements.
  • Support production activities, including packaging (drumming and/or bagging) and truck loading and unloading, as needed.
  • Assist with training new operators and provide backup support for the Lead Technician when required.
  • Collaborate with maintenance and plant personnel on routine maintenance, repairs, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Position Requirements
Education
  • High school diploma or GED required
  • Technical training preferred

Experience
  • 12-18 months of chemical operator experience in a continuous or batch facility preferred

Physical Demands
  • Lift up to 50 pounds approximately 15%-40% of the time
  • Ability to climb stairs and/or ladders an average of 35 times per shift
  • Ability to pass a pulmonary function test to wear a respirator

Working Conditions
  • Exposure to noise, dust, wet floors, seasonal heat and cold, hazardous chemicals, and chemical odors
  • Required use of personal protective equipment, including a negative-pressure respirator, safety shoes, hard hat, and safety glasses

Special Skills and Training
  • Forklift and hoist operation, including equipment inspection and cleaning
  • Potential exposure to hazardous chemicals and/or waste
  • Required training, in compliance with federal regulations for hazardous waste exposure and handling, will be completed within six months of hire

#onsite
We understand that candidates will not meet every single desired qualification. If your experience looks a little different from what we've identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we'd love to learn more about you.
At Solenis, we understand that our greatest asset is our people. That is why we offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits which include medical, dental, vision & 401K, and numerous opportunities for professional growth and development. So, if you are interested in working for a world-class company and enjoy solving complex challenges, whether in the lab or the field, consider joining our team.
Solenis is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer, including Minorities / Women/ Veterans / Disabled. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
Should you require assistance in applying to this opportunity, please reach out to Solenis Talent Acquisition at talentacquisition@solenis.com
The expected compensation range for this position is between $47,950.00 and $70,323.00 plus discretionary bonuses. The exact compensation may vary based on your skills, experience and other factors permitted by law.

What Solenis employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom