Chemical Processing Machine Operators Earn $56,350 Median – BLS 2025
The median salary for chemical processing machine setters, operators, and tenders is $56,350, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $27 an hour, or $59,300 as a mean wage. The full range for the occupation runs from $37,160 at the 10th percentile to $85,520 at the 90th percentile. Most workers in this role run equipment that mixes, blends, or processes chemicals into finished products like pharmaceuticals, paints, or plastics.
How much Chemical Processing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders earn
The BLS reports a national median wage of $56,350, with the typical worker making $27.07 per hour. The bottom 10% earn $37,160 or less, while the top 10% earn $85,520 or more. The mean wage, which averages all salaries including outliers, is $59,300.
Your actual pay will depend on industry, experience, and location. Workers in chemical manufacturing, the largest employer, tend to earn close to the median. Those in pharmaceutical or petroleum refining often make more.
Pay by state
The BLS does not provide specific state-by-state figures for this occupation. However, states with a high concentration of chemical manufacturing, such as Texas, Louisiana, and New Jersey, typically report wages above the national median. States with less industry, such as Vermont or Montana, likely fall below the median. For precise figures, check the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics database.
How to become Chemical Processing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tender
Most workers enter this occupation with a high school diploma and receive on-the-job training. Some employers prefer candidates with a certificate or associate degree in process technology or chemical operations. The process generally involves:
- Earn a high school diploma or equivalent; coursework in chemistry, math, and shop can help.
- Complete on-the-job training, often lasting several months, under an experienced operator.
- Obtain voluntary certification, such as the Certified Chemical Operator credential from the National Association of Chemical Distributors, to improve job prospects.
- Some roles require a Drug Enforcement Administration license for handling controlled substances.
Job outlook
The BLS does not project employment growth for this occupation from 2024 to 2034. That means data is insufficient for a growth estimate, likely because the occupation is small and affected by automation. Employment currently stands at 199,730 workers. Openings will mainly come from retirements and turnover, so competition may be moderate.
Frequently asked questions
What does a chemical processing machine setter, operator, or tender do?
They set up, operate, or tend equipment that mixes, blends, or processes chemicals. Duties include monitoring gauges, adjusting temperatures or pressures, loading raw materials, and ensuring quality standards.
What education do I need to become a chemical processing machine operator?
A high school diploma is the typical minimum. Some employers prefer a certificate or associate degree in process technology. On-the-job training lasting several months is standard.
Which states pay the highest wages for chemical processing machine operators?
Specific state figures aren't available from the BLS, but states with large chemical manufacturing sectors like Texas, Louisiana, and New Jersey tend to pay above the national median of $56,350.
Is the demand for chemical processing machine operators growing?
The BLS does not provide a growth projection for this occupation for 2024-2034. This often indicates limited data or minimal expected growth. Most openings will stem from replacing workers who leave the field.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Chemical Processing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders data.