Career overview

Chemical Plant and System Operators

O*NET-SOC 51-8091.00

Median pay / yr$73,540

OutlookBelow Average

Control or operate entire chemical processes or system of machines.

What it takes

The skills, knowledge, and credentials employers look for in Chemical Plant and System Operators.

Operations MonitoringWatching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Operation and ControlControlling operations of equipment or systems.
MonitoringMonitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Quality Control AnalysisConducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Critical ThinkingUsing logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

Production and ProcessingKnowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
ChemistryKnowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
MechanicalKnowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
English LanguageKnowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Public Safety and SecurityKnowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.