Chemical Plant & System Operators
| Description |
OES Code: 95008 |
Control or operate an entire chemical process or system of machines, such as reduction pots and heated air towers, through the use of panelboards, control boards, or semi-automatic equipment.
Wages, California
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$16.61 |
| 25th Percentile |
$18.70 |
| 50th Percentile |
$21.17 |
| 75th Percentile |
$24.82 |
Wages, San Joaquin County
| Entry-Level Hourly Wage |
$18.09 |
| 25th Percentile |
$18.49 |
| 50th Percentile |
$20.41 |
| 75th Percentile |
$23.19 |
Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey
Hours & Benefits
Most employees in this occupations work a 40 hour work week and are employed on a regular, full time basis.
Almost all employers offer medical and dental insurance in addition to vacation, sick leave, life insurance, and retirement plans. Most employers also offer vision insurance.
Employment Trends, California
| Employment 1998 |
1,600 |
| Projected Employment 2008 |
2,000 |
| Percent Change 1998-2008 |
25% |
| Separations 1998-2008 |
600 |
Employment Trends by California County
Advancement
When opportunities exist, Chemical and Plant Operators can be promoted to Plant Manager, Shift Supervisor, Senior Operator, Manufacturing Foreperson, or Head Operator.
Getting the Job & Other Information
Employers recruit through employee referrals, the Employment Development Department, newspaper ads, or hire through an in-house promotion or transfer.
For current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank. |
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Most employers also report that prospective employees need 6 to 48 months of experience. The National Occupational Outlook indicates prospective employees need more than 12 months of on-the- job training.
Skills & Other Requirements
Chemical and Plant Operators need to be trained in safe work practices; e.g., disposal of chemical waste, they need an ability to follow statistical process control procedures, the ability to use computer controlled processes and read monitoring equipment. They also need the ability to follow emergency case processing procedures and an ability to assess emergency situations and set priorities quickly. The ability to write effectively, problem solving skills, knowledge of chemical compounds/chemistry, and knowledge of paints and related chemicals are also important
Basic skills include the ability to read and follow instructions, basic math skills, oral communication skills, and the ability to read and comprehend information quickly.
Personal or other skills include, a willingness to work nights, weekends and holidays, possession of mechanical aptitude, ability to work as part of a team, the ability to work independently, and leadership skills. Chemical plant and systems operators must also have the ability to tolerate acids and chemicals.
References
Related Occupations: California Occupational Guide #2007
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