1

Solvent Plant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operate, maintain and control plant HPA, LPA and vacuum equipment. * Operate, maintain and control solvent recovery systems. * Generate reports for the EPA. * Operate and control the chilled water ...

Operate, maintain and control plant HPA, LPA and vacuum equipment. * Operate, maintain and control solvent recovery systems. * Generate reports for the EPA. * Operate and control the chilled water ...

Engineer IV

Grants, NM · On-site

$89K - $155K/yr

Process & Plant Design * Develop and review Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) for mineral processing circuits (comminution, leaching, solvent extraction ...

Transfer solvent from south tank to waste trailer or K-7 or M-57; * Perform routine scale verifications; * Participate on the Safety Action Committee; * Participate in Process Hazard Analysis (PHA)

Material Handler

Carlisle, PA

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Plant is heated in the winter time. * Material Handler is exposed to dust and solvent fumes in small quantities when raw materials are added. * The material handler is exposed to chemicals (raw ...

Transfer solvent from south tank to waste trailer or K-7 or M-57; * Perform routine scale verifications; * Participate on the Safety Action Committee; * Participate in Process Hazard Analysis (PHA)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Solvent Plant information

See salary details

$11

$18

$27

How much do solvent plant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 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.
3.1. Principal Chemical Process Engineer-Separation

3.1. Principal Chemical Process Engineer-Separation

Phoenix Tailings

Burlington, MA

$150K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead the development and optimization of solvent extraction circuits for rare earth element separation from both primary and secondary sources 
  • Design and execute bench- and pilot-scale experiments to evaluate separation efficiency, reagent performance, and system dynamics 
  • Translate laboratory-scale successes into scalable, industrial processes with a focus on safety, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness 
  • Own and evolve process flow diagrams (PFDs), mass balances, and P&IDs for solvent extraction systems 
  • Drive selection and specification of extractants, diluents, and equipment (e.g., mixer-settlers, columns, or centrifugal contactors) 
  • Analyze separation performance data to identify improvement opportunities and implement process changes 
  • Collaborate closely with metallurgy, chemical engineering, and operations teams to support plant commissioning and troubleshooting 
  • Author technical reports, scale-up plans, and design documentation to support commercialization of Phoenix Tailings’ extraction technologies 
  • Stay at the forefront of solvent extraction technologies and rare earth processing trends to inform and elevate process strategy 
Qualifications:
  • Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or related discipline with 8+ years of relevant experience  
  • Proven expertise in rare earth element/critical metals separation via solvent extraction, including reagent chemistry, process configuration, and optimization 
  • Hands-on experience with lab-scale and pilot-scale solvent extraction systems, including safety and operational best practices 
  • Deep understanding of phase equilibria, thermodynamics, and kinetics relevant to solvent extraction 
  • Demonstrated success in scaling up chemical separation processes from bench to pilot to commercial scale 
  • Proficiency with process modeling tools (e.g., Aspen, METSIM, or similar) 
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with a passion for experimental validation and continuous improvement 
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, especially in cross-disciplinary environments 
We offer a competitive compensation package that is based on expertise. We also offer the following benefits:

This pay range reflects best estimate for the total cash compensation which includes salary + discretionary bonus for this role. Total package may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Pay Range: $150,000- $180,000 total cash compensation plus equity

  • Healthcare: 100% Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee
  • Stock Options: Ownership in a fast-growing venture-backed company. 
  • Time Off: Unlimited PTO. 
  • Learning: Learning and development opportunities to grow your skills and career. 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.