Chemical Plant & System Operators Description OES Code: 950080 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. CA Wages/hour-nonunion median range New, no experience: $9.25 minimum – $15.00 New, experienced: $9.00 $6.00 – $15.00 3 yrs+ experience: $12.50 $7.00 – $20.00 CA Wages/hour:union median range New, no experience: $10.00 $6.00 – $16.00 New, experienced: $12.00 $8.00 – $16.00 3 yrs+ experience: $15.00 $9.00 – $20.00 Some employers are unionized. Local Wages • CCOIS Survey • OES 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 Employment 1996 1,150 Projected Employment 2006 1,220 Growth Rate 1996-2006 6.1% Openings due to Separations 300 Employment Trends by California County This occupation is growing much slower than the State average (24.6%). However, many employers also indicate that they expect employment in this occupation to either remain stable or grow. 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. © State of California EDD/LMID, US Department of Labor Unless indicated otherwise, wage data is based on Statewide aggregated CCOIS survey responses between 1995 and 1997. Questions or Comments? Contact us.

Click arrow at bottom left of image to begin. Requires QuickTime Education and Training All employers indicate that recent new hires have high school or the equivalent education. Most employers also indicate that previous work experience is never required. 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 Note: The references below (and/or on other parts of this page) will link to pages on the internet outside the Career Video system. Related Occupations: California Occupational Guide #2007 Training: California State Training Inventory Note: Information for this occupation is limited.