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Process Operator Jobs in Palacios, TX (NOW HIRING)

Make changes to the operating process necessary to maintain product quality. * Evaluate corrective action and risk mitigation strategies based on the performance of plant equipment and process ...

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Process Operator information

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$12

$18

$27

How much do process operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for process operator in Palacios, TX is $18.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.06 and $20.29 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Process Operator jobs in Palacios, TX?

The most popular types of Process Operator jobs in Palacios, TX are:

What cities near Palacios, TX are hiring for Process Operator jobs?

Cities near Palacios, TX with the most Process Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Process Operator job openings in Palacios, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,646 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Heavy Equipment Operator - Data Center

MasTec Utility Services

Boling, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Overview

Company Summary

MasTec Utility Services delivers critical infrastructure construction and engineering services for power delivery, gas, and water customers, specializing in overhead and underground electric distribution for power delivery systems, gas distribution construction for gas systems, and turnkey solutions for a variety of water, sewer, and civil infrastructure projects. Backed by the strength of decades of experience, unrivaled industry skills, and a deep commitment to core values, MUS delivers safe, innovative, and environmentally responsible services that provide extraordinary value to clients.

MasTec Utility Services is a purpose-driven company. Our core values guide our strategy, performance, and culture. We believe in maintaining an environment where team members can make an impact, grow, and thrive. A place where they find meaning and purpose in doing the important work of ensuring communities have the vital energy, light, and communications to prosper. Our culture is inclusive and welcoming. Our teams are empowered with abundant training, tools, and opportunities to follow their curiosity and ambitions. Everyone has an equal chance to advance. Everyone is supported, respected, and challenged to be their best. Weโ€™re always looking for talented and dedicated people to join us and love where they work.

MasTec Utility Services is a proud subsidiary of MasTec (NYSE: MTZ), a Fortune 500 Company ranked by Energy News-Record as one of the leading contractors in the country. MUS is part of the MasTec Power Delivery segment. We are certified as a minority-controlled company by the National Minority Suppliers Development Council (NMSDC). Our rich diversity of people and ideas makes us a stronger, more innovative organization.

Job Summary

The Heavy Equipment Operators for our Data Center projects are responsible for operating the machines required to install the underground conduit, cables, transformers, pull boxes, transformer pads, and switchgear colors for customers. This position supports the Line team and works with personnel within the department.

*** This position is located in Boling, Texas.


Responsibilities
  • Operate jobsite equipment safely, such mobile cranes, bulldozers, angle dozers, front end loaders, backhoes, excavators, track hoe, trenchers, digger-derricks, or other construction equipment.
  • Perform service, safety checks, and minor repairs on machines, check oil and fluids.
  • Inspect work area to ensure it has been staked/located prior to digging.
  • Work with maintenance crew or assist as laborer when not operating equipment.
  • Dig around all live utilities, both underground and overhead.
  • Train, guide, or oversee work of lower graded operators and laborers when needed
  • Comply with proper safety standards/procedures and work practices according to MasTec or the customer, whichever standard is higher.
  • Load trucks in a safe and accident-free manner.
  • Work to improve operations, decrease turnaround times, streamline work processes, and work cooperatively to provide quality seamless customer service with quality timeliness.
  • Perform other duties as required and/or assigned.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1-2 years of relevant experience.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Excavation experience is necessary.

Preferred

  • 2 or more years of experience.
  • OSHA 10 Certification.

Physical Demands and Work Environmentย 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.ย ย 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors.ย 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.ย ย 

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).ย 

Equal Employment Opportunity:ย 

The Companyโ€™s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. ย 

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma, or equivalent.
  • 1-2 years of relevant experience.
  • Valid driver's license.
  • Excavation experience is necessary.

Preferred

  • 2 or more years of experience.
  • OSHA 10 Certification.

Physical Demands and Work Environmentย 

This job operates in a field environment. This role routinely requires extended periods of bending, squatting, climbing, kneeling, pushing, pulling, lifting, lifting in awkward positions, standing, and twisting. Also, working in inclement weather conditions, such as extreme heat, extreme cold, rain, ice, snow, and wind.ย ย 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. This position is physically active, with lifting required. Must be able to bend and lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Clarity of vision at 20 feet or more or 20 inches or less, with the ability to judge distance and space relationships. Precise hand-eye coordination. Ability to identify and distinguish colors.ย 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. The Company reserves the right to revise or change the job duties as the need arises. Management reserves the right to change the description, duties, or work schedules to accommodate individuals with disabilities.ย ย 

Benefits available include Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance, a 401k plan and Employee Stock Purchase plan. MasTec is a publicly traded company MTZ (NYSE).ย 

Equal Employment Opportunity:ย 

The Companyโ€™s policy is not to unlawfully discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable law and EEOC regulations. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. ย 

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME