Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Separating Machine Operator
What separating machine operators actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a separating machine operator?
Shift handoff. From there, the day usually includes run filters and centrifuges, run stills, and monitor separation. Rotating shifts are common.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a separating machine operator working full time.
- Shift handoff.
- Check the centrifuge.
- Change filter cloths.
- Monitor the still.
- Sample product.
- Adjust feed rates.
- Log data.
Where separating machine operators work
Operators work in chemical, food and refining plants.
Hours and schedule
Rotating shifts are common.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Run filters and centrifuges
- Run stills
- Monitor separation
- Change filters
- Take samples
- Adjust settings
- Record data
Tools you’ll use every day
- Centrifuges
- Filter presses
- Stills
- Evaporators
- Control panels
- Sample kits
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- No degree needed
- Process skills
- Plant pay
- Steady work
What’s hard
- Declining employment
- Chemical exposure
- Shift work
- Noise
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like process work
- I’m detail-oriented
- I follow procedures
- I can work shifts
- I want plant pay
- I don’t need a degree
Not sure? Take the free Separating Machine Operator fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Follow lockout/tagout
- Wear chemical PPE
- Watch centrifuge vibration
- Follow confined space rules