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Process Operator Jobs in Lake Charles, LA (NOW HIRING)

Sasol

Process Engineer

Lake Charles, LA · On-site

... operating procedures, process descriptions, and engineering calculations. * Monitor unit performance data, identifying deviations and recommending improvements to efficiency, throughput, and energy ...

Polaris

Process Engineer

Lake Charles, LA · On-site

Process Engineer LOCATION: Lake Charles I. SUMMARY OF POSITION: Motivated Process Engineer contributing technical expertise, collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and demonstrate a ...

Sasol

Lead Process Engineer

Lake Charles, LA · On-site

$95K - $123K/yr

Provide Process Engineering technical support to Operating Unit(s) to sustain and improve profitability * Provide Process Engineering technical input to the Project Group - as the lead in developing ...

Airswift

Process Control Engineer

Westlake, LA · On-site

Maintain and support process control applications for assigned operating units. * Develop, modify, troubleshoot, and tune distributed control system strategies. * Support advanced process control ...

pca

Process Chemical Engineer

Deridder, LA

At PCA, you'll find the best people in the industry operating in a "golden rule" culture. We ... Process Chemical Engineer Duties: · Responsible for providing process optimization and engineering ...

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All JobsProcess Operator JobsProcess Operator Jobs in Lake Charles, LA

Process Operator information

See Lake Charles, LA salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operator in Lake Charles, LA is $19.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $21.15 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 Lake Charles, LA?

The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Lake Charles, LA are:

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For Process Operator jobs in Lake Charles, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Process Operator jobs in Lake Charles, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Process Operator jobs in Lake Charles, LA are:

What cities near Lake Charles, LA are hiring for Process Operator jobs?

Cities near Lake Charles, LA with the most Process Operator job openings:

Process Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Operator job openings in Lake Charles, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 22% Contract, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,355 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Processing Machine Operator

Triumvirate Environmental

West Orange, TX • On-site

$16.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

Triumvirate Environmental rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 91 rated recycling and waste

Job description

Processing Machine Operator 

Triumvirate Environmental, one of the largest environmental services firms in North America, is seeking an (onsite) Processing Machine Operator for our West Orange, TX recycling operation. This position reports to Shift Supervisor. The pay rate for this position is $16.25/hr. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm. 

This safety sensitive, detail oriented, and highly motivated individual will be responsible for operating different types of balers, shredders and grinders. They will also be working closely with extruding equipment. 

Triumvirate Environmental provides leading organizations in higher education, life sciences, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing sectors with diverse services and expertise to assist them with compliance management. At Triumvirate Environmental, we strive to WOW both our employees and our customers. Our unique culture fosters growth, development, education, and creativity. 

Triumvirate Environmental is committed to social responsibility, focusing on environmental protection, sustainable development, and improving access to education and healthcare. Through our products, services, and corporate initiatives, we strive to make a positive impact, going beyond compliance to promote social good. Our dedication to sustainability and ethical standards drives our long-term success and strengthens relationships with stakeholders. For more information, please click here:  https://www.triumvirate.com/social-responsibility.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Identify and label different types of material properly.
  • Use basic and power hand tools to remove unwanted metal and plastic from recycled plastics.
  • Help drive sustainability by sorting different types of plastic and separating them to be used in the grinding and extrusion process.
  • Identify when material is not melting properly, adjust temperatures, screw speed and ram settings as needed on compounder machines.
  • Regular/Daily cleaning of work area and tools.
  • Work efficiently and productively.
  • Ability to multi-task.
  • Stack material in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Develop an understanding of OSHA regulations and Triumvirate's Health and Safety Practices.
  • Respect and build a working relationship with co-workers.
  • Must successfully complete on-the-job training.
  • Ability to stand 8+ hours per day.
  • Must be able to operate a forklift.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Basic Requirements:

  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Strong aptitude in problem solving and process improvement.
  • Demonstrate the ability to articulate problems and solutions.
  • Demonstrate a sense of urgency and personal initiative related to problem resolution duties with follow-through and professionalism.
  • Self-motivated and capable of managing stressful situations
  • Must demonstrate a strong commitment to safety
  • Collaborate effectively with team members
  • Demonstrate openness to learning by adapting to new processes, incorporating constructive feedback, and taking initiative to develop skills and expertise
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds repetitively.
  • Ability to work overtime.
  • This role is considered safety sensitive.
  • Must have a reliable form of transportation.
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States without future sponsorship.

Preferred Requirements:

  • Previous manufacturing experience
  • Previous forklift experience

 

Work Environment:

  • Manufacturing environment where hearing protection, safety glasses and steel toed boots are required.
  • Large facility with approximately 100,000 square feet of ground to cover.
  • Seasonal variation in temperature and weather conditions.
  • Frequent radio communication with operators and managers.
  • Teamwork-centered atmosphere with multiple employees.

Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

#LI-Onsite

Besides Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, we contribute to a 401k, offer a generous tuition reimbursement program, TONS of safety training for some positions with opportunities for external trainings and certifications, Mentorship & Career Succession Planning, Relocation Opportunities, Auto/Home insurance discounts, pet assistance discount plans, discounted movie passes & more! 

To learn more about our business, culture, and the exciting work that we are doing in the industry, find us on LinkedIn, Instagram (@triumvirateenvironmental), or our website!

Triumvirate Environmental is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. As an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE), Triumvirate does not discriminate based on race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Individuals with Disabilities and Protected Veterans are encouraged to apply.

If you have a disability and need accommodation during the application and hiring process, please contact us at https://www.triumvirate.com/contact or call us at 888-834-9697.  The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. To view our California Privacy Notice and Policy, click here.

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