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Valve Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HP Products

Valve Technician (PRD)

Blountville, TN

$23 - $26/hr

Follow all established standard operating procedures for valve automation including maintaining a safe and organized workspace and observing necessary safety precautions during assembly, testing ...

HUNT VALVE

CNC Programmer Hunt Valve

Salem, OH · On-site

$20.50 - $28/hr

Work closely with machine operators to ensure that programs manufacture parts that meet drawing ... Hunt Valve offers competitive health, dental, and vision programs, a 401(k) retirement plan with ...

HP Products

Valve Technician - PRD

New Castle, PA

$22/hr

Follow all established standard operating procedures for valve automation including maintaining a safe and organized workspace and observing necessary safety precautions during assembly, testing ...

SUPPLY.com

Valve Technician - PRD

New Castle, PA · On-site

$22/hr

Follow all established standard operating procedures for valve automation including maintaining a safe and organized workspace and observing necessary safety precautions during assembly, testing ...

HUNT VALVE

CNC Programmer Hunt Valve-Salem,Ohio

Minerva, OH

$24.50 - $33.50/hr

Work closely with machine operators to ensure that programs manufacture parts that meet drawing ... Hunt Valve offers competitive health, dental, and vision programs, a 401(k) retirement plan with ...

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Valve Operator information

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$12

$18

$23

How much do valve operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for valve operator in the United States is $18.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Valve Operator, you need mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and knowledge of industrial safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with SCADA systems, hand tools, and basic maintenance equipment is typically expected, and OSHA safety certification is advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, reliability, and effective communication help Valve Operators excel in coordinating with teams and responding to operational issues. These skills are essential for ensuring the safe, efficient, and continuous flow of materials in manufacturing or processing environments.

What is the job description of a valve operator?

A valve operator is responsible for controlling the opening and closing of valves to regulate the flow of liquids or gases in industrial systems. They monitor equipment, perform inspections, and may operate control panels or manual valves, often requiring knowledge of safety procedures and sometimes certifications. The role typically involves working in plants, pipelines, or manufacturing environments and may require physical stamina and attention to detail.

What is the difference between Valve Operator vs Pipefitter?

AspectValve OperatorPipefitter
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; may require certifications in valve operation or safetyHigh school diploma; apprenticeship or technical training in pipefitting
Work EnvironmentFactories, plants, industrial facilities, often indoorsConstruction sites, industrial plants, often outdoors or in confined spaces
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, energy, water treatment industriesPrimarily in construction, oil & gas, and industrial piping projects
Job FocusOperating and controlling valves to regulate flowInstalling, repairing, and maintaining piping systems

While both roles are essential in industrial settings, Valve Operators focus on controlling flow through valves, often requiring specific certifications. Pipefitters, on the other hand, install and maintain piping systems, with more emphasis on physical installation and repair. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Is it hard to get hired at valve?

Valve Operator positions can be competitive, often requiring relevant experience, technical skills, and safety certifications. Employers typically look for candidates with mechanical aptitude and the ability to work in industrial environments, which may involve physical labor and adherence to safety protocols.

How to become a valve technician?

To become a valve technician, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by technical training or an apprenticeship in valve maintenance and repair. Relevant skills include understanding of mechanical systems, reading technical diagrams, and familiarity with tools and safety procedures; certifications such as API or ASME can enhance job prospects.

Is a valve job worth it?

A valve operator's job involves controlling the flow of liquids or gases through valves, which requires attention to safety protocols and mechanical skills. The role can be physically demanding and often requires certifications or training in valve operation and maintenance. Whether it is worth it depends on the individual's interest in industrial work and the availability of job opportunities in the sector.

What are some common challenges Valve Operators face during shift work and how can they manage them effectively?

Valve Operators often work rotating shifts, which can lead to fatigue and disrupted sleep patterns. Managing these challenges requires developing good sleep hygiene, staying hydrated, and maintaining clear communication with team members during shift handovers. Additionally, staying vigilant and following safety protocols is essential, as the role involves operating critical equipment that directly impacts plant operations. Building strong teamwork and staying organized helps Valve Operators respond efficiently to unexpected issues and maintain safe, smooth operations.

What are Valve Operators?

Valve Operators are skilled workers responsible for controlling the flow of liquids, gases, or other materials through pipelines and systems by opening and closing valves, either manually or remotely. They monitor gauges, meters, and control panels to ensure systems operate safely and efficiently. Valve Operators are often employed in industries like oil and gas, water treatment, manufacturing, and power generation, where precise flow control is essential for operations. Their duties may also include inspecting and maintaining equipment, responding to emergencies, and following strict safety protocols.
More about Valve Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Valve Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Valve Operator jobs are:
Valve Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Valve Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,827 per year, or $18.2 per hour.
LEW Maintenance - Valve/Pump Tech

LEW Maintenance - Valve/Pump Tech

Leprino Foods Company

Lemoore, CA • On-site

$26.79/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Leprino Foods rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 396 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Maintenance Department
Job Title: Line 3 Valve/Pump Tech
Wage Scale: $26.79(Break in rates and $0.75 cents differential pay from 6PM - 5:59AM applies)
Hours/Shift: 1st Shift(03:00 - 11:30)
Days Off: Varies
General Summary:
Valve / Pump Technician is responsible for maintaining the performance of SUDMO and Tri-Clover valves to prevent valve failures and prevent extraneous from entering the cheese. Valve / Pump Technician will also inspect pumps and change seals and gaskets to prevent downtime and possible extraneous.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
  • Technician is responsible for ensuring all departments SUDMO and Tri-Clover valves are functioning properly at all times. This includes all valves in the Cheese Department.
  • Technician is responsible for maintaining a rotation for valves based on frequency of use.
  • Technician is responsible to open pumps and change seals and inspect pump condition for proper maintenance
  • At all times, operate in a manner consistent with safe operating procedures, including following LOTO policies when needed.
  • Sign off on valve / Pump inspection programs for the Cheese Departments as needed.
  • Communicate with line's group leader and Supervisor when working on valves that may affect cheese production.
  • Perform basic trouble shooting procedures when applicable.
  • Adhere to all Company and regulatory GMPs.
  • Communicate between, co-workers, departments and supervision as required.
  • Must successfully complete JTPR and consistently perform work according to SOP.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities/Competencies:
  • Knowledge of sanitary GMPs.
  • Physical requirements to perform job as defined in the essential job function. Must be able to lift over 50 lbs and work in high and tight areas to access all valves.
  • Must demonstrate mechanical skills.
  • Computer literacy. Must be able to enter a work order.

Working Relationships:
  • This position reports to the Maintenance Department Manager or a Supervisor.
  • This position will regularly interact with production and support group supervisors. Regular interaction with other plant management.

Offering You In Return:
A chance to be part of a global team of individuals passionate about producing and delivering high-quality products that help feed and nourish families around the world. Leprino Foods could not be where it is today without our incredible employees. That is why we share in our success together by rewarding you for your hard work. Hiring great people who are in it for the long run is our goal. Through competitive salaries and bonuses, life, medical/dental/vision coverage, voluntary benefits, employee assistance programs, wellness incentives, tuition assistance, vacation, nine paid holidays, sick time, annual merit increases, as well as the LFC Profit-Sharing & 401(k) plan. Your impact will be noticed and rewarded, as you seek to further our company, our customers, and one another.
Leprino uses Psychemedics for a 90-day hair follicle drug test as part of the employee pre-employment process and also participates in E-Verify. All employees in our manufacturing facilities are required to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as mandated by their role and location.

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