Chemical plant process operator
Control the machinery used to make paints, plastics, cosmetics and toiletries in more sustainable ways.
About the job
What it's like
You'd check and run the machines that make products such as paints, plastics, cosmetics and toiletries.
The way in which these products are made is changing as we look for green and sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. Every day people all over the country, and even all over the world, would use the items you have helped to produce.
It would be your responsibility to follow manufacturing procedures and make sure the machines were operated safely.
Your tasks might include:
setting up the machines
measuring, weighing, mixing and loading materials
checking meter readings and adjusting the machines
taking product samples and recording the data for quality checks
packing finished items into barrels, tanks or containers
closing down and clean the machines
carrying out small repairs
reporting any major problems
following health and safety guidelines carefully
Your work would be supervised by a shift manager and an engineer.
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. The way in which products are made is changing as we look for green and sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. People all over the world would use the items you have helped to produce.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Life sciences -
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Chemical sciences
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- understanding
- managing resources
- attention to detail
- observation
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- reading
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Chemistry
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Engineering Science
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Practical Craft Skills
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Science
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Scientific Technologies (Laboratory Skills)
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
Although there aren't any required qualifications many employers would value a good general education and qualifications at National 4 and 5 (SCQF Level 4/5).
Relevant work-based qualifications such as a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Process Manufacture (SCQF Level 6/7) or be willing to work towards qualifications once in a job.
The recruitment process may involve aptitude tests to check your suitability for the role.
You may have to undergo a medical and you should have good eyesight and colour vision.
