Operators add chemicals to keep cleaning solutions at the right concentration, then set temperature and cycle-length controls and start up the conveyors, pumps, and agitators that run the wash cycle. Throughout the process they watch gauges and thermometers, adjust as conditions drift, and log materials used, processing times, and test results for quality tracking, while also inspecting the machines themselves for malfunctions. What's being cleaned (kegs, glass products, tin plate, dried fruit, or manufactured parts) depends on the employer, but the core job of running and monitoring cleaning equipment stays the same. It's fast-paced, physical work typically entered with a high school diploma and on-the-job training, paying in the $34,000 to $59,000 range.
Pros
Faster than average projected job growth (3.6% over the next decade)
No degree needed, just a high school diploma and on-the-job training
Standard 40-45 hour weeks rather than routine overtime
Cons
Only about 1,600 jobs nationwide, so positions are scarce and geographically limited
Regular exposure to cleaning chemicals and contaminants
Fast-paced, deadline-driven work throughout the shift
A typical day
Shift start means a walk-down of the line: checking solution tanks, verifying chemical concentrations, and setting cycle temperatures before product starts moving. Once the conveyors run, the job is vigilance — watching gauges and thermometers, pulling test pieces to confirm the wash or pickling bath is stripping what it should, adding chemicals on schedule to keep the solution in spec. Off-spec readings mean troubleshooting fast, because a bad bath can ruin a whole run of parts. The shift closes with logging output numbers, draining or refreshing solutions as scheduled, and handing off equipment status to the next crew.
Tasks at the job
Add specified amounts of chemicals to equipment at required times to maintain solution levels and concentrations.
Observe machine operations, gauges, or thermometers, and adjust controls to maintain specified conditions.
Set controls to regulate temperature and length of cycles, and start conveyors, pumps, agitators, and machines.
Operate or tend machines to wash and remove impurities from items such as barrels or kegs, glass products, tin plate surfaces, dried fruit, pulp, animal stock, coal, manufactured articles, plastic, or rubber.
Record gauge readings, materials used, processing times, or test results in production logs.
Examine and inspect machines to detect malfunctions.
Workplace & working conditions
Work happens indoors, though not always in a climate-controlled space, and most of the day is spent on your feet. Noise levels can be distracting or uncomfortable. The role involves regular exposure to contaminants, and standard protective equipment (gloves, safety glasses, and similar) is expected.
The pace is often fast, with real time pressure to meet deadlines.
Education necessary or common
High school diploma; some on-the-job training or apprenticeship
Licenses & certifications
OSHA 10 General Industry
Forklift certification (often employer-provided)
HAZWOPER training for chemical handling (employer-provided)