As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for a Chemical Plant Operator III in North Carolina is $56,259 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $27.
However, a Chemical Plant Operator III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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Chemical Plant Operator III Salaries by Percentile
| Annual Salary |
Monthly Pay |
Weekly Pay |
Hourly Wage |
|
| 75th Percentile | $64,237 | $5,353 | $1,235 | $31 |
| Average | $56,259 | $4,688 | $1,082 | $27 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,179 | $4,265 | $984 | $25 |
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A Chemical Plant Operator III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Chemical Plant Operator III's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Plant Operator I | 0-1 years | $41,304 |
| Chemical Plant Operator II | 1-3 years | $51,013 |
| Chemical Plant Operator III | 3-5 years | $56,259 |
| Chemical Plant Operations Supervisor | 5+ years | $85,653 |
| Chemical Plant Operations Manager | 5+ years | $118,693 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Chemical Plant Operator IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:
Understanding how a Chemical Plant Operator III's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75th Percentile | $64,237 | $5,353 | $1,235 | $31 |
| Average | $56,259 | $4,688 | $1,082 | $27 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,179 | $4,265 | $984 | $25 |
Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Chemical Plant Operator III, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Plant Operations Supervisor | $85,653 | 52% |
| Mine Foreman | $81,633 | 45% |
| Plant Superintendent | $116,212 | 107% |
Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Chemical Plant Operator III job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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