Operate or tend equipment to control chemical changes or reactions in the processing of industrial or consumer products. Equipment used includes devulcanizers, steam-jacketed kettles, and reactor vessels.
SOC: 51-9011.00
Common Job Titles
Chemical Operator
Multiskill Operator
Outside Operator
Vessel Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate chemical reactor vessels, steam-jacketed kettles, and distillation equipment in industrial processing environments, following established safety protocols and standard operating procedures.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess process parameters and equipment performance indicators using flow meters, pressure gauges, and temperature sensors to ensure optimal chemical reactions.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform continuous monitoring of chemical processes and equipment conditions in industrial production settings, detecting deviations from normal operating ranges.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate product quality and process compliance with regulatory standards using quality control analysis techniques and spectrophotometric equipment.
Proficient
Hands-onManipulate valves, pumps, and control systems to adjust flow rates, temperatures, and pressures during batch and continuous chemical operations.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate workplace safety and environmental protection practices when handling hazardous chemicals, using personal protective equipment, and training team members.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply chemistry knowledge and production processing principles to control chemical reactions, maintain product quality, and troubleshoot process irregularities.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze process data and equipment readings to identify operational problems and determine corrective actions under time-sensitive conditions.
Developing
Hands-onExecute equipment maintenance and calibration procedures on centrifugal pumps, heat exchangers, and filtration systems following mechanical maintenance protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret technical documentation, batch records, and standard operating procedures to ensure accurate execution of chemical processing activities and regulatory compliance.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
127,410
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $37,270. 25th percentile: U.S. $45,660. 50th percentile: U.S. $57,090. 75th percentile: U.S. $71,400. 90th percentile: U.S. $88,460. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$37,270
10% of workers earn the following or more
$88,460
Workers on average earn
$59,800
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Production and Processing4.5/5
Chemistry4.4/5
Mechanical4.1/5
Computers and Electronics3.7/5
English Language3.7/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
