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Solvent Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Plant Superintendent is responsible for leading the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the cottonseed crush and solvent extraction facility. This role provides operational leadership ...

The Plant Operator will be responsible for operating all equipment that is associated with solvent extraction of oil from soybeans and canola in the plant. The Plant Operator will be responsible for ...

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Pilot Plant Operations Reports To: Ops Manager (Demo Plant) Position Summary The Pilot Plant ... Our patented Membrane Solvent Extraction (MSX©) technology enables high-purity recycling of ...

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Pilot Plant Operations Reports To: Ops Manager (Demo Plant) Position Summary The Pilot Plant ... Our patented Membrane Solvent Extraction (MSX©) technology enables high-purity recycling of ...

This role is responsible for improving plant efficiency, product quality, safety performance, and cost effectiveness across seed preparation, pressing, solvent extraction, and by-product handling ...

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Pilot Plant Operations Reports To: Ops Manager (Demo Plant) Position Summary The Pilot Plant ... Our patented Membrane Solvent Extraction (MSX©) technology enables high-purity recycling of ...

... crushing, solvent extraction, and refining systems. * Support safe operation of mechanical ... Experience in pilot plant or process development environments * One or more years of related work ...

... crushing, solvent extraction, and refining systems. * Support safe operation of mechanical ... Experience in pilot plant or process development environments * One or more years of related work ...

... crushing, solvent extraction, and refining systems. * Support safe operation of mechanical ... Experience in pilot plant or process development environments * One or more years of related work ...

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Solvent Plant information

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How much do solvent plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for solvent plant in the United States is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Solvent Plant?

A Solvent Plant is an industrial facility designed for extracting oils from oil-bearing materials such as seeds or beans using chemical solvents, most commonly hexane. This process is widely used in the production of edible oils, animal feeds, and other byproducts. The plant operates by soaking or washing the raw material with the solvent, separating the oil, and then removing the solvent from the final product through evaporation and condensation. Solvent extraction is valued for its efficiency in maximizing oil yield compared to traditional mechanical extraction methods. Safety and environmental controls are important in these plants due to the use of volatile chemicals.

What are some common challenges faced by operators in a solvent plant, and how can they be effectively managed?

Operators in a solvent plant often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety standards due to the handling of flammable chemicals, ensuring equipment reliability, and minimizing downtime during production cycles. Effective management of these challenges involves thorough adherence to safety protocols, regular preventive maintenance, and continuous training to stay updated with operational procedures. Additionally, clear communication within the team and with other departments, such as maintenance and quality control, is crucial for smooth workflow and timely problem-solving.

What is the difference between Solvent Plant vs Solvent Extraction Technician?

AspectSolvent PlantSolvent Extraction Technician
CredentialsRelevant certifications in chemical processing, safety, and plant operationCertifications in chemical extraction, safety protocols, and equipment handling
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plant setting, involving large-scale chemical processingLaboratory or plant environment focused on extraction processes
Industry UsageUsed in chemical manufacturing, petrochemical, and related industriesCommon in food, pharmaceutical, and chemical extraction sectors
Job FocusOverseeing solvent processing, equipment operation, and safety compliancePerforming extraction procedures, quality control, and equipment maintenance

While both roles involve working with solvents, a Solvent Plant operator manages large-scale solvent processing in industrial settings, whereas a Solvent Extraction Technician focuses on extraction processes, often in laboratory or specialized plant environments. The roles share similar certifications and safety protocols but differ in scope and application within the industry.

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

To thrive as a Solvent Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of chemical processing, mechanical aptitude, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification in chemical or industrial operations. Familiarity with process control systems, analytical instruments, and adherence to OSHA safety standards is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient plant operations and help prevent costly errors or safety incidents.
Infographic showing various Solvent Plant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,934 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
Operations Trainer (Solvent Extraction)

Operations Trainer (Solvent Extraction)

MP Materials Corp.

Mountain Pass, CA • On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

MP Materials (NYSE: MP) is rebuilding American industrial capability for a new era of autonomy, robotics, and electrification.

We are the only U.S. company with a fully integrated rare earth supply chain—from mining and refining to advanced metal and magnet manufacturing. Our products include both the critical materials used to make permanent magnets and the finished magnets themselves—enabling next-generation technologies in robotics, automation, aerospace, transportation, defense, and energy systems. These materials are the foundation of physical AI—the convergence of computation, movement, and control.

We hire ambitious, mission-driven people who want to tackle complex challenges and shape the future of strategic industries. Our culture is rooted in teamwork, resiliency, and integrity, with a deep commitment to operational excellence and national purpose. MP is rapidly evolving from a materials producer into a leading U.S. manufacturer—and our people are driving that transformation.

Position Overview:

The Solvent Extraction (SX) Operations Trainer is responsible for developing and delivering comprehensive, process-driven training programs for SX operations personnel. This includes establishing standardized training curricula, validating operator competency, and supporting commissioning and optimization of SX circuits.

This role serves as a subject matter expert (SME) in solvent extraction processes, ensuring that operators demonstrate proficiency in process fundamentals, control strategies, troubleshooting, and safe operating practices. The trainer works cross-functionally with operations, maintenance, engineering, and metallurgical teams to align training with plant performance objectives and continuous improvement initiatives.

Position Responsibilities:

  • Develop, implement, and maintain standardized training programs specific to solvent extraction unit operations, including extraction, scrubbing, stripping, and organic handling systems.
  • Create and manage detailed operator Line of Progression (LOP) frameworks, including competency assessments, qualification standards, and progression criteria within the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Review, and audit Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring technical accuracy, consistency, and alignment with current plant conditions and best practices.
  • Deliver both classroom and field-based training covering SX chemistry, phase separation dynamics, reagent management, and process control philosophies.
  • Interpret and train personnel on Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) specific to SX circuits.
  • Support commissioning activities, including operator readiness, procedure validation, and training for new or modified systems.
  • Conduct internal process audits and training effectiveness evaluations; provide data-driven recommendations for improvement.
  • Lead or support root cause analysis and troubleshooting efforts related to SX performance issues, including phase disengagement, crud formation, and organic losses.
  • Develop and maintain training matrices to ensure workforce competency across all SX process areas.
  • Collaborate with site leadership, superintendents, and technical teams to ensure training aligns with production targets, safety standards, and operational priorities.
  • Ensure compliance with MSHA, Cal-OSHA, and internal safety standards through structured training and verification.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives, including 5S, process optimization, and operational excellence programs.
  • Participate in document control, policy deployment, and digital training platform management (e.g., LMS, Convergence Training).
  • Promote a strong safety culture, including participation in Process Hazard Analyses (PHA), Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR), and near-miss reporting.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 4+ years of experience in solvent extraction operations, hydrometallurgical processing, or a related technical field.
  • Demonstrated experience in training, mentoring, or technical leadership within a processing or chemical plant environment.
  • Strong working knowledge of solvent extraction principles, including mass transfer, phase equilibrium, and reagent chemistry.
  • Proficiency in interpreting and utilizing PFDs and P&IDs.
  • Working knowledge of regulatory requirements, including MSHA and Cal OSHA standards.
  • Experience with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and digital training platforms.
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint).

Desired Qualities:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemistry, or related discipline.
  • Experience in rare earth processing or similar hydrometallurgical operations.
  • Prior involvement in plant commissioning or major process start-ups.

MP Materials is Proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Underrepresented groups/Women/Disabled/Veterans are encouraged to apply. Candidates whose disabilities make them unable to meet the position’s requirements will still be considered qualified if they can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation.

Your Right to Work – In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment verification document form upon hire.

For Assistance with Application - Alternative methods of applying for employment are available to individuals unable to submit an application through this site because of a disability. Contact Human Resources Department at 702-844-6111; dial 7 when prompted for HR;1700 South Pavilion Center Dr. 8th Floor, Las Vegas, NV 89135 to discuss reasonable accommodation.

Safety Provision - Employees are responsible for following all company, industry and regulatory procedures and laws to ensure a safe work environment for themselves and the company. Employees must have a willingness to promote safety among the workforce, participate in Process Hazard Analysis procedures and Pre-Startup Safety Reviews.

(PPE) Personal Protective Equipment is required when performing work in a mine, manufacturing, outdoor, or plant environment. Required PPE may include, but is not limited to, hard hat, hearing protection, safety glasses, safety footwear, respirator, rubber steel-toe boots, protective clothing, gloves, and any other protective equipment as required.

Working Conditions - Our facility sits at an elevation of 4,700 feet. Employees may be subject to extreme weather conditions when working in an outdoor setting (heat and cold, wind). Work is at an open pit mine or manufacturing/chemical plant setting, which may include exposure to moving mechanical parts, toxic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, explosives, fumes, or airborne particles.

Physical Demands - Manual dexterity; sense of touch; sense of smell; speaking clearly; hearing-speech range; hearing – all ranges; seeing, reading and comprehensions; seeing – distant/near; depth perception; color vision. While performing the job responsibilities, the employee is required to talk and hear. The employee is often required to stand and use their hands and fingers, to handle or feel and to manipulate laboratory equipment. The employee is occasionally required to walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision. Employees must pass a full-face respiratory fit test. Employees must be able to lift 50 lbs. Must be able to work in PPE level C. These requirements are representative, but not all-inclusive, of the knowledge, skill, and ability required of the employee.