Occupation · SOC 51-9011
Chemical Equipment Operators and Tenders
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.
Median wage
$57,090
$37,270–$88,460
Projected growth
+3.3%
Average growth
Annual openings
430
per year
Employed (US)
127,410
Job Zone 2
Typical preparation
Some preparation
Stackable credential programs
64 mapped
Core skills
Operations MonitoringOperation and ControlMonitoringJudgment and Decision MakingCritical ThinkingReading ComprehensionActive ListeningComplex Problem Solving
Knowledge areas
Production and ProcessingChemistryMechanicalComputers and ElectronicsEnglish Language
Technology & tools
Electronic mail softwareSpreadsheet softwareOffice suite softwarePresentation softwareWord processing software
Representative tasks
Observe safety precautions to prevent fires or explosions.Record operational data, such as temperatures, pressures, ingredients used, processing times, or tesControl or operate equipment in which chemical changes or reactions take place during the processingLoad products into tanks for shipment.
Competency framework
Skill expectations by proficiency level.
emerging
Safety precautions for fire and explosion prevention — identify and follow under direct supervisor guidance in a chemical processing facility.Operational data including temperatures and pressures — record accurately using standard log sheets while supervised on the production floor.Chemical processing equipment controls — operate at basic settings following step-by-step written procedures in a manufacturing environment.Work area patrol routes — complete at scheduled intervals to detect visible leaks or obvious equipment malfunctions under technician oversight.Product samples at specified process stages — draw using proper sampling tools and personal protective equipment as directed by a senior operator.Temperature and pressure control panels — adjust single variables according to supervisor instructions during routine production runs.Gauges and flowmeters — read and report current values to the shift supervisor during normal operating conditions on the plant floor.Product samples for pH and specific gravity — collect and label correctly for laboratory submission following standard operating procedures.Chemical process terminology and equipment names — recognize and use correctly when communicating with co-workers in a production setting.Workplace safety regulations and hazard communication labels — interpret and apply basic requirements during daily tasks at a chemical plant.
developing
Fire and explosion hazard controls — apply preventive measures independently and brief incoming shift workers on current risk conditions in the plant.Operational logs for temperature, pressure, and processing times — maintain accurately and flag out-of-range values using spreadsheet software during routine shifts.Chemical reaction and processing equipment — operate across multiple unit types with limited oversight, adapting to minor process variations in a production facility.Facility patrol inspections — conduct systematically to identify leaks, unusual odors, or equipment irregularities and document findings in the shift report.Product sample collection schedule — manage across multiple sampling points during a shift, maintaining chain-of-custody and proper labeling procedures.Feed rates, liquid flow, and reaction time controls — adjust within prescribed ranges based on process indicators to maintain target output quality.Instrument readings from gauges, recording instruments, and flowmeters — monitor continuously and compare against control limits to detect drift before conditions become critical.On-site product tests for viscosity, concentration, and chemical characteristics — perform using portable instruments and interpret results against specification sheets.Process deviations of moderate complexity — troubleshoot using knowledge of equipment interactions and chemistry fundamentals in a mid-sized chemical production environment.Production scheduling requirements and batch records — coordinate personal work activities to meet time targets while maintaining quality standards on a manufacturing line.
proficient
Complex fire and explosion prevention protocols — execute independently and adapt in real time when process upsets occur in high-hazard chemical production areas.Multi-variable operational datasets including pressures, temperatures, and ingredient quantities — analyze trends using ERP and database software to support continuous process improvement.Full range of chemical processing equipment across an entire production unit — operate and control autonomously, managing simultaneous reactions and interdependent process streams.Unplanned equipment malfunctions and process leaks — detect, assess, and initiate corrective action during patrols, applying systematic troubleshooting across a large plant area.Non-routine sampling requirements triggered by process anomalies — design and execute appropriate sampling strategies and interpret results to diagnose product quality issues.Multi-parameter control adjustments for temperature, pressure, flow, and reaction timing — execute concurrently to keep complex processes within specification during non-standard operating conditions.Instrumentation and control system performance — evaluate accuracy and reliability of gauges and recording instruments, recommending recalibration or replacement when data integrity is at risk.Full product testing battery including specific gravity, pH, viscosity, and chemical characteristics — perform and interpret on-site, determining independently whether product meets release criteria.Process chemistry knowledge and regulatory compliance requirements — apply to evaluate batch records, identify deviations, and recommend corrective actions within a regulatory manufacturing environment.Critical process decisions under time pressure — exercise sound judgment to protect personnel safety, product quality, and equipment integrity during abnormal operating scenarios.
advanced
Facility-wide safety culture for fire, explosion, and chemical hazard prevention — lead by establishing standards, conducting audits, and holding teams accountable across all shifts in a chemical plant.Operational data recording systems and documentation practices — design and implement improvements using ERP and database tools to ensure data integrity and regulatory traceability at the organizational level.Chemical processing equipment operating strategies — develop and standardize best practices for the full equipment portfolio, driving efficiency and yield improvements across production lines.Plant-wide patrol and monitoring programs — create structured inspection protocols and train operators to systematically identify and report equipment anomalies before they escalate.Sampling and quality control programs — establish sampling plans and analytical criteria for multiple product lines, integrating laboratory and on-site testing into a cohesive quality assurance system.Process control parameter standards and change-control procedures — author and approve, ensuring all adjustments to temperature, pressure, flow, and timing are governed by validated engineering guidelines.Instrumentation and process monitoring infrastructure — oversee selection, installation, and maintenance planning for gauges, flowmeters, and recording instruments across the production facility.Advanced product testing and quality analysis frameworks — direct, setting acceptance criteria and continuous improvement targets that align with customer specifications and regulatory requirements.Operator training and competency development programs — design and deliver for entry through senior levels, using structured on-the-job learning, assessments, and coaching in a chemical manufacturing context.Cross-functional process improvement initiatives — lead, applying production, chemistry, and engineering knowledge to solve complex operational problems and implement sustainable solutions at organizational scale.
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