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Processing Plant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Preferred candidates would have 2 or more years directly related experience as an Operator in a chemical plant, refinery, or gas processing plant OR have successfully completed a 2-year Associate ...

Preferred candidates would have 2 or more years directly related experience as an Operator in a chemical plant, refinery, or gas processing plant OR have successfully completed a 2-year Associate ...

Bachelor's degree preferred in Food Science, Engineering, Chemistry or related field with 5+ years of sanitation experience in a 24/7 food/dairy manufacturing processing plant experience OR High ...

QA / QC Supervisor

Vernon, CA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Prior experience in a Food Processing Plant environment * Prior experience in Environmental Swabbing- sponge sampling, ATP swabbing, surface swabbing * Previous QC experience and supervisory ...

Plant Accountant

Antioch, CA · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

Compensation will be discussed transparently early in the interview process to ensure alignment Plant Culture and Work Environment This Plant Accountant (Manufacturing Accountant) role is part of a ...

Because this is a pilot facility, operating processes and equipment will continue to evolve ... Plant Operators must be able to work rotating schedules consisting of either 10-hour or 12-hour ...

Plant Accountant

Antioch, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

... in the interview process to ensure alignment Plant Culture and Work Environment This Plant ... Accountant (Manufacturing Accountant) role is part of a 55-employee manufacturing plant with a ...

Because this is a pilot facility, operating processes and equipment will continue to evolve ... Plant Operators must be able to work rotating schedules consisting of either 10-hour or 12-hour ...

Plant Accountant

Antioch, CA · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Plant Accountant Job Overview Silgan is hiring a Plant Accountant to manage manufacturing ... Streamlined cost accounting processes compared to complex or multi-site operations * Structured ...

Plant Accountant

Madera, CA · On-site

$80K/yr

... processes • Analyze operational data and provide recommendations to management • Ensure compliance with accounting policies and internal controls Qualifications for the Plant Accountant: • ...

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Processing Plant information

See California salary details

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How much do processing plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for processing plant in California is $23.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $26.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Processing Plant Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Processing Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of machinery operations, safety protocols, and process optimization, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with control systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and quality monitoring equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for excelling in this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and reliable plant operations, minimizing downtime and maintaining product quality.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working in a processing plant, and how can they be addressed?

Working in a processing plant often involves dealing with fast-paced production schedules, strict safety protocols, and repetitive tasks. Employees may face challenges such as maintaining attention to detail to avoid errors, adapting to shift work, or managing physical fatigue. To address these challenges, many plants provide thorough safety training, implement job rotation to reduce monotony, and encourage open communication among team members to quickly resolve issues. Teamwork and a proactive approach to safety and process improvements are key to thriving in this environment.

What is a processing plant?

A processing plant is a facility where raw materials are transformed into finished or semi-finished products through various industrial processes. These plants can handle materials such as food, minerals, chemicals, or oil, depending on the industry. Processing plants are equipped with specialized machinery and technology to ensure efficient, safe, and consistent processing of materials. They play a crucial role in supply chains by adding value to raw resources before they reach consumers or manufacturers.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In processing plants, high-paying roles such as plant managers, operations directors, or specialized engineers can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve overseeing large-scale operations or implementing advanced automation and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Processing Plant vs Processing Technician?

AspectProcessing PlantProcessing Technician
Primary RoleFacility that processes raw materials into finished productsPerforms operational tasks within a processing plant to ensure smooth production
CredentialsOften requires industry-specific certifications or trainingRequires technical certifications or training related to machinery and processes
Work EnvironmentIndustrial facilities, manufacturing plantsIndustrial or manufacturing settings within processing plants
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing companies, food processing, chemical plantsProcessing plants across various industries like food, chemicals, or pharmaceuticals

Processing Plant refers to the entire facility where raw materials are transformed into finished products, while Processing Technicians are the skilled workers operating equipment within these plants. Both roles often require similar certifications and work in industrial environments, but the Processing Plant is the broader entity, and Processing Technicians focus on operational tasks within it.

What does a processing operator do?

A processing operator manages and operates machinery in manufacturing or processing plants to ensure products are produced efficiently and safely. They monitor equipment, perform quality checks, and follow safety protocols, often requiring technical skills and attention to detail. The role may involve working in shifts and adhering to strict safety standards.

Why were 92,000 jobs lost?

Processing plant jobs can be lost due to automation, shifts in manufacturing demand, or company downsizing. These changes often result from economic factors, technological advancements, or supply chain disruptions affecting employment levels in the industry.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Processing plant jobs typically do not pay $4,000 a week without specialized skills or management experience. High-paying roles in manufacturing or industrial settings may require technical training, certifications, or supervisory responsibilities to reach such earnings. Most roles paying this amount without a degree are in fields like sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship rather than processing plant positions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Processing Plant jobs in California? The most popular types of Processing Plant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Processing Plant jobs? Cities in California with the most Processing Plant job openings:
Infographic showing various Processing Plant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,610 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Plant Manager - Processing Pier 45

Pacific Seafood

San Francisco, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Pacific Seafood rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

198th of 434 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

At Pacific Seafood, we do more than just provide the world with the healthiest proteins on the planet. We are a family-owned, excellence-driven organization committed to being the brand of choice in the marketplace and the employer of choice in the community. We believe in servant leadership, investing in our team members' personal and professional growth, and rewarding performance. We live by the core values of our Diamond Philosophy: Teamwork, Productivity, Quality, and Excellence-which means consistently doing your best and always striving to do better. 
Summary:
The Plant Manager- Pier 45 is responsible for managing all aspects of daily plant functions to ensure smooth daily operations. This role is responsible for directing and managing all plant operations including plant maintenance, product quality, staffing, sales development and growth of the Pier 45 location, and other plant activities. 
1. Product Sales and Brand Growth 
  • Develop professional networks in the seafood industry. 
  • Drive sales growth of fish and crab to local vendors.  
  • Maintain regular communication with our existing customer base and work with the sales team on strategies to increase sales. 
  • Evaluate all inactive accounts to identify opportunities for reassignment and growth. 
  • Strive to meet and surpass sales quotas by supporting effective sales strategies and tactics. 
  • Demonstrate proficiency in understanding sales volumes and exploring logistic options to optimize sales operations and meet business objectives. 
2. Production and Quality Management 
  • Procure all production and plant supplies and control costs. 
  • Control and monitor physical inventories. 
  • Monitor production for quality standards, maximize productivity and limit product waste. 
  • Scheduling and unloading salmon, halibut and crab boats. 
  • Enter Orders in AS400. 
  • Make bank deposits daily for ice and seafood cash purchases.  
  • Manage local dock deliveries.  
  • Scheduling Repair and Maintenance and on occasion performing that maintenance. 
  • Manage the daily operations at the Bodega Bay Landing Station. 
3. Team Leadership  
  • Manage scheduling for team members to optimize efficiencies.  
  • Oversee and adhere to company hiring and disciplinary procedures to build a culture of trust. 
  • Collaborate with Human Resources to implement policies that are fair and equitable, enhancing workplace culture and employee satisfaction. 
  • Manage labor costs through effective scheduling and utilizing tools available to monitor costs. 
4. Safety, Compliance, and Sustainability 
  • Oversee HACCP and sustainability programs to ensure operational compliance and safety. 
  • Responsible for plant inspections by state and federal agencies, maintaining all necessary permits and dealing with regulatory bodies. 
  • Monitor safety for the plant safety program. 
Additional responsibilities may be assigned as deemed necessary to support the overall goals and objectives of the position. 
 Required 
  • 5+ years related experience and/or training. 
  • HARPC (HACCP) Knowledge. 
  • Microsoft Office Suite. 
  • Product Sales Knowledge. 
Preferred 
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. 
  • Prior experience in the seafood or shellfish industry. 
  • LEAN/Six Sigma Experience 
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the team member: 
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, and climb for extended periods. 
  • Work in refrigerated/freezer environments, heights, confined spaces, and areas with ammonia. 
  • Manual dexterity and ability to handle small tools and parts. 
  • Reaching. Extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction.   
  • Fingering. Picking, pinching, typing or otherwise working, primarily with fingers rather than with the whole hand as in handling. 
  • Talking. Expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word. Those activities in which they must convey detailed or important spoken instructions to other workers accurately, loudly, or quickly. 
  • Hearing. Perceiving the nature of sounds at normal speaking levels with or without correction. Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication, and to make the discriminations in sound. 
  • Close visual acuity to perform an activity such as: preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer terminal; extensive reading. 
  • Repetitive motion. Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers. 
  • Occasionally to Regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  
Working Conditions
The working environment characteristics described here are representative of those a team member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the team member is exposed to: 
  • Manufacturing and processing plant environment. 
  • PPE required in all production areas. 
  • Moderate to loud noise level in the work environment. 
  • Plant exposure to wet, cold, and/or humid temperatures. 
  • Standard office equipment and heavy machinery. 
  • Standard and rotating shifts; occasional overtime or emergency response. 
Total compensation:

At Pacific Seafood your base wage is only a portion of your overall compensation package. We invest in our Team Members through a comprehensive and attractive total rewards package, including but not limited to:
  • Health insurance benefits options, including medical, prescription, vision, dental, basic group life and short term disability.
  • Flexible spending accounts for health flex and dependent care expenses
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan options with generous annual company profit sharing match
  • Paid time off for all regular FT team members, to include sick days, holiday pay, vacation, and personal time
  • Employee Assistance Program- Confidential professional counseling, financial, and legal assistance provided at no charge to Team Members and immediate family members
  • Product purchase program
Pacific Seafood is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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