Chemical plant process operator
Chemical plant process operators control machinery that makes products like paints, plastics, solvents and cosmetics.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a chemical plant process operator, you'll:
- set up production machinery
- mix and load raw materials into tanks
- monitor instruments and make adjustments to settings
- take routine samples and record data for lab quality checks
- package up finished products and move them to storage areas
- clean and maintain production lines
- follow strict health and safety rules and report technical problems
Working environment
You could work at a manufacturing plant or in a laboratory.
Your working environment may be noisy.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could move into:
- shift supervision
- quality control
- machine maintenance
- health and safety
- training
With further study, you could become a manufacturing process technician or process lead.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of manufacturing production and processes
- the ability to operate and control equipment
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
- observation and recording skills
- the ability to work well with others
- excellent verbal communication skills
- concentration skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
You could take a college course, which would give you some of the skills and knowledge that might help you to get a job as a trainee.
For example:
- chemistry
- science
- applied science
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
More Information
You could apply for an apprenticeship, for example:
- Science Manufacturing Process Operative Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Polymer Processing Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Science Manufacturing Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Process Industry Manufacturing Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
These apprenticeships can take between 2 and 3 years to complete. They combine on-the-job training with off-site study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
You can apply directly for jobs. Some employers may ask for GCSEs in maths, English, IT and a science subject, or equivalent qualifications.
Career tips
Previous experience in the manufacturing and processing industries would be an advantage, as would forklift truck training.
Further information
You can find more details about careers and training in the chemicals industry from Cogent Skills.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.