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

Westlake

Operator

Lake Charles, LA

$16 - $21/hr

In lieu of Process Technology degree, a minimum three (3) years of experience as a Process Operator or Maintenance Technician in a chemical plant or refinery, or applicable experience in related ...

New

Sasol

Process Engineer

Lake Charles, LA · On-site

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 ...

Orion Talent

Production Shift Foreman

Dequincy, LA · On-site

$25/hr

Experience in heavy manufacturing, mining, chemical processing, or industrial operations. * Forklift or mobile equipment operating experience. * Experience working with quality control procedures and ...

Bridgestone

Process Engineer

Lake Charles, LA

Develop and revise operating procedures as required The Process Engineer will leverage their expertise as part of the Process Engineering Group, which plays a critical role in driving longterm ...

Polaris

Process Engineer

Lake Charles, LA

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

Polaris Engineering

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 ...

Polaris Engineering

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 ...

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 ...

Ice Industries

Roll Form Process Engineer

Lacassine, LA · On-site

... processed. * Performs other incidental and related duties as required and assigned, including ... The Roll Form Operator is a safety-sensitive position working directly with machinery and equipment ...

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Process Operator information

See Lake Charles, LA salary details

$13

$19

$28

How much do process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 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 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.
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:
What are popular job titles related to Process Operator jobs in Lake Charles, LA? 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 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,355 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Operator

Westlake

Lake Charles, LA

$16 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Westlake Chemical rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 100 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

SUMMARY

Responsible for maintaining safe, environmentally sound, and continuous operation of respective manufacturing areas. Must be able to learn product quality parameters and positively influence them.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

May include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Perform work required to maintain continuous and safe operation of the assigned unit.
  • Follow both written and verbal instructions from supervision and make acceptable shift relief.
  • Make routine rounds to inspect equipment for faulty operation and report to supervision.
  • Keep accurate logs, collect and log reading data as required, and take samples as scheduled.
  • Work with Maintenance Department for equipment maintenance and repairs, including equipment isolation, hydrocarbon purging, equipment lockout, and writing Safe Work Permits.
  • Participate in training other operators.
  • May be required to work special job assignments such as writing standard operating procedures, preparing emergency operating plans, working on turnaround preparation, and attending safety meetings and process hazard reviews.
  • Comply with all local, state, and federal regulations including OSHA, DEQ, EPA, DOT, etc.
  • Fulfill Quality Management System requirements as dictated by ISO procedures.
  • May be required to become a member of the Rescue Team and Fire Brigade.
  • May be required to operate heavy machinery such as a forklift and railcar moving equipment.
  • Maintain good housekeeping and safety standards in the area of responsibility.
ADDITIONAL DUTIES

Perform the primary thinking encompassed by this job description.

  • Comply with all Company policies and procedures.
  • Support Company goals of continuous improvement and operational excellence, including active

participation on project teams.

  • Perform duties in a manner that protects personal safety as well as the safety of others.
  • Promptly report Safety, Health or Environmental issues or incidents to supervision.
  • Any additional responsibilities or tasks as assigned.
EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
  • A current, valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card is required.
  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
  • Associate Degree in Process Technology or Associate Degree in a related technical discipline is preferred.
  • In lieu of Process Technology degree, a minimum three (3) years of experience as a Process Operator or Maintenance Technician in a chemical plant or refinery, or applicable experience in related field may be accepted.
  • Three (3) years military active duty experience in a related military occupational specialty may be accepted in lieu of Process Technology degree.
  • Bachelor's degree in other fields may be accepted in lieu of Process Technology degree.
  • Successful candidates must satisfy background screening, including motor vehicle record screening, drug testing & pre-employment physical requirements before starting work
PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, climb, or twist. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 60 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. The employee will be required to occasionally use both hands for fine and power grip, and precision and speed work. The employee will be intermittently required to drive a truck, bicycle, or forklift at any given time during the shift on a daily basis. Employee must be able to climb elevated structures up to 310 feet high. Employee must also be conformable with confined space entry. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The noise level in the work environment is usually high. Some of the work may be required in the operating units which can require usage of required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, etc. May also result in exposure to outside elements and may require usage of stairs and elevators.

Inside exposure includes but not limited to A/C 40% of the time. Outside exposure includes but not limited to outside elements 60% of the time. May be exposed to slippery, rocky, or uneven surfaces. Job may require working in closed quarters. Exposure to dust, fumes, and gasses are at a minimum on the inside, and can be moderate outside.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

If you are an active Westlake employee (or an employee of any Westlake affiliates), please do not apply here.You will apply via the Jobs Hub application in Workday.

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