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Cleaning, Washing, and Metal Pickling Equipment Operators and Tenders

SOC 51-9192.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers the operation, monitoring, chemical management, maintenance, recordkeeping, and leadership responsibilities of cleaning, washing, and metal pickling equipment operators and tenders in industrial and manufacturing production environments.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Chemical additions to cleaning tanks — measure and add specified amounts under direct supervisor guidance on a production floor.
  2. Machine gauges and thermometers — observe and read basic indicators under close supervision during assigned wash cycles.
  3. Cycle controls and conveyor start-up — set temperature and timing parameters following written step-by-step instructions on the production line.
  4. Cleaning solutions and water — drain and refill machine tanks at designated intervals under direct oversight in a manufacturing facility.
  5. Wash and rinse machines — tend basic equipment to remove surface impurities from assigned items following established operating procedures.
  6. Production log entries — record gauge readings and materials used in handwritten or digital logs under supervisor review on the shop floor.
  7. Machine exteriors and visible components — inspect for obvious malfunctions or leaks and report findings to a lead operator.
  8. Cleaning solution mixtures — measure and weigh ingredients using calibrated rods and measuring tanks as directed by a supervisor.
  9. Personal protective equipment and safety protocols — apply required PPE and chemical-handling procedures during all machine operation tasks.
  10. Spreadsheet and word processing software — enter basic production data into pre-formatted templates under guidance in a plant office setting.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Chemical solution concentrations — monitor and adjust additive quantities at required intervals to maintain specified levels across multiple tanks.
  2. Control panels and process gauges — interpret readings and make routine adjustments to temperature, pressure, and flow with minimal supervision.
  3. Conveyor speeds, pump settings, and agitator cycles — configure and start equipment for standard production runs in a high-volume manufacturing environment.
  4. Machine tanks and internal components — drain, clean, and refill on scheduled intervals using appropriate cleaning agents and safety practices.
  5. Cleaning and pickling machines — operate across a range of materials including metal surfaces, glass, and plastic parts through full production shifts.
  6. Production logs and batch records — record processing times, test results, and solution usage accurately in spreadsheet-based tracking systems.
  7. Equipment malfunctions and process deviations — detect and diagnose routine mechanical or chemical issues and apply first-level corrective actions.
  8. Solution preparation procedures — measure, weigh, and mix cleaning agents using suction tubes and calibrated instruments to meet batch specifications.
  9. Cycle performance outcomes — evaluate finished product cleanliness against quality standards and flag non-conforming items for review.
  10. Shift handover documentation — complete and communicate status of ongoing processes, materials consumed, and pending tasks to incoming operators.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Chemical treatment programs — manage solution concentrations, titration schedules, and additive timing autonomously across complex multi-stage cleaning systems.
  2. Process control variables — monitor and fine-tune temperature, cycle length, and agitation parameters to optimize throughput and quality on non-routine product runs.
  3. Full equipment start-up and shutdown sequences — execute independently for diverse machine configurations including pickling lines and barrel-washing systems.
  4. Preventive maintenance schedules — coordinate draining, cleaning, and mechanical inspection of tanks and conveyors to minimize unplanned downtime.
  5. Varied substrate materials — apply correct cleaning and pickling protocols for metal plate, rubber, dried fruit, coal, or animal stock based on material-specific requirements.
  6. Production and compliance records — maintain accurate logs, interpret historical data trends, and generate reports for quality and regulatory purposes.
  7. Mechanical fault diagnosis — identify root causes of equipment malfunctions using sensory inspection and gauge analysis, recommending and implementing effective repairs.
  8. Bulk solution formulation — calculate and prepare large-scale chemical mixtures precisely, adjusting for batch size variations and environmental conditions.
  9. Quality inspection outcomes — assess processed items against dimensional, surface, and cleanliness specifications and adjust machine parameters to resolve deviations.
  10. Operator training support — demonstrate correct machine operation, chemical-handling techniques, and safety protocols to newer team members on the production floor.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Facility-wide cleaning and pickling operations — direct workflow scheduling, machine allocation, and staffing to meet production targets across multiple lines.
  2. Process improvement initiatives — lead systematic analysis of chemical usage, cycle efficiency, and waste reduction to deliver measurable cost and quality gains.
  3. Chemical treatment standards and SOPs — author and maintain facility-level standard operating procedures ensuring regulatory compliance and operational consistency.
  4. Equipment reliability programs — design and oversee preventive and predictive maintenance strategies that reduce machine downtime across the production department.
  5. Cross-functional quality initiatives — collaborate with engineering, safety, and quality assurance teams to resolve recurring product defects and process non-conformances.
  6. Operator competency development — design structured on-the-job training curricula and skills assessments for cleaning and pickling equipment roles at all levels.
  7. Chemical procurement and inventory strategy — evaluate suppliers, negotiate quantities, and manage safety data compliance for all treatment chemicals used plant-wide.
  8. Production reporting and performance metrics — analyze shift logs, throughput data, and defect trends using spreadsheet tools to brief management on operational performance.
  9. Regulatory and environmental compliance — ensure all chemical disposal, emission controls, and hazardous material handling meet applicable OSHA and EPA standards.
  10. Capital equipment decisions — assess aging or underperforming machines, build business cases for upgrades, and oversee installation and commissioning of new cleaning systems.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

The Anthropic Economic Index (2026-03-24 release) doesn't show enough AI-assisted task observations for this occupation to anchor an AI-at-Work Competency Framework yet. Most physical and on-site occupations land here today; that signal may rise as more workers in this field adopt AI tools.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication8 statements
Emerging
  1. Production log entries — records basic gauge readings and materials used in written logs using standard formats Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Verbal status updates — reports observable machine conditions to supervisors using basic operational terminology Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Shift handoff communication — conveys processing cycle status, chemical levels, and equipment conditions to oncoming operators during shift transitions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Incident reporting — documents equipment malfunctions or chemical concentration deviations in written maintenance or incident reports with relevant detail Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Chemical usage documentation — records accurate measurements, processing times, and test results in production logs using consistent, readable notation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-functional communication — relays equipment performance data and material quality observations clearly to quality control and maintenance personnel Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Technical instruction delivery — explains chemical handling procedures, cycle settings, and safety protocols to new operators using clear, task-specific language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Process deviation communication — composes detailed written summaries of production anomalies, including root cause observations and corrective actions taken, for management review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task ownership — takes responsibility for assigned machine startup, monitoring, and shutdown tasks without requiring repeated prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety initiative — alerts coworkers to chemical spills or equipment hazards observed during routine operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Work area coordination — organizes personal workstation and chemical supply staging to support smooth sequential production flow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer guidance — assists less experienced operators in locating correct chemical concentrations and setting machine controls Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Operational prioritization — makes independent decisions about cycle sequencing and chemical replenishment timing to maintain production throughput Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality accountability — takes ownership of inspecting cleaned or processed items and flags batches that do not meet specification before they advance downstream Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Operator mentorship — coaches new team members on equipment control panels, chemical handling safety, and log documentation standards through hands-on demonstration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Process improvement leadership — identifies recurring inefficiencies in cleaning or pickling cycles and proposes procedural adjustments to supervisors with supporting production data Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task self-monitoring — recognizes when unfamiliar chemical additions or machine settings require verification before proceeding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning reflection — identifies which equipment controls and gauges are not yet fully understood and seeks clarification from experienced operators Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Error pattern recognition — notices recurring mistakes in measuring or mixing concentrations and adjusts personal preparation habits to prevent repetition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill gap awareness — evaluates own proficiency across different machine types on the production floor and prioritizes cross-training opportunities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Procedural self-assessment — reviews completed production logs at end of shift to verify accuracy of recorded data and identify omissions before submission Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Attention calibration — adjusts personal monitoring frequency based on cycle stage, focusing closer attention during chemical addition windows and temperature-critical phases Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cognitive strategy refinement — develops personal checklists and mental models for managing multiple simultaneous machines to reduce error rates under high-volume production Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Reflective feedback integration — systematically incorporates supervisor feedback and equipment audit findings into revised personal operating practices Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking8 statements
Emerging
  1. Gauge interpretation — identifies when temperature or pressure readings fall outside posted acceptable ranges and reports deviations to a supervisor Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Observation-based judgment — distinguishes between normal machine sounds and vibrations and those indicating potential malfunction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Root cause analysis — examines possible causes when cleaned items show residual contamination, considering chemical concentration, temperature, and cycle time variables Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Chemical measurement verification — cross-checks measured quantities of cleaning solutions against batch specifications before adding to equipment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Malfunction diagnosis — evaluates multiple instrument readings and physical observations simultaneously to isolate the source of equipment performance degradation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Concentration adjustment reasoning — determines corrective chemical additions based on test results and solution analysis rather than routine schedule alone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process optimization analysis — evaluates historical production log data to identify correlations between cycle parameters and output quality, recommending evidence-based adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Risk assessment — anticipates downstream quality consequences of out-of-spec chemical concentrations and initiates preventive holds rather than waiting for defects to appear Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Team communication — shares machine status updates with coworkers on shared equipment lines to prevent conflicting operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Supply coordination — notifies team lead when chemical stock is running low to prevent production delays Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-shift cooperation — provides thorough verbal and written handoffs to oncoming operators to ensure continuity of chemical processing cycles Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Maintenance coordination — works cooperatively with maintenance technicians during scheduled drain, clean, and refill cycles to minimize equipment downtime Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Production team integration — coordinates timing of machine loading and unloading with upstream and downstream production workers to maintain line flow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Quality collaboration — partners with quality inspectors to review batch outcomes and adjust operational parameters based on joint assessment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-functional process improvement — participates in multi-department teams reviewing chemical usage efficiency, waste reduction, and compliance with environmental handling standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Onboarding support — actively contributes to training new hires by sharing production floor knowledge and demonstrating collaborative safety practices Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Chemical safety compliance — follows posted handling and personal protective equipment requirements when measuring and adding chemicals to equipment without exception Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest reporting — records actual gauge readings and material quantities in production logs without falsification, even when results deviate from targets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accountability in errors — promptly reports incorrect chemical additions or missed cycle steps to supervisors rather than concealing mistakes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Consistent professionalism — maintains reliable attendance and punctual shift starts to ensure machine monitoring coverage is not interrupted Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Environmental stewardship — properly disposes of used cleaning solutions and chemical waste according to regulatory and facility procedures without shortcuts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Procedural integrity — follows all drain, clean, and refill protocols at designated intervals even when production pressure encourages skipping steps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical modeling — demonstrates and reinforces correct chemical handling, documentation, and safety behaviors among peers, setting the standard for the work area Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulatory accountability — proactively identifies and reports potential compliance gaps in chemical storage or disposal practices to supervisors before they become violations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Problem improvisation — proposes simple workarounds when standard tools for measuring chemical solutions are unavailable, such as using calibrated rods as alternatives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Observation creativity — notices unusual patterns in machine output that suggest process improvements and shares informal suggestions with the team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Log system refinement — devises personal notation shortcuts in production logs that capture required data more efficiently without sacrificing accuracy Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cleaning sequence adaptation — adjusts order of operations when processing mixed material batches to optimize chemical concentration effectiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Equipment use innovation — identifies non-standard applications of existing conveyors, pumps, or agitator settings to improve throughput on unusual material types Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Preventive maintenance creativity — develops informal visual inspection checklists tailored to specific machine quirks that supplement standard malfunction detection procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process redesign contribution — proposes novel cycle configurations or chemical sequencing strategies that reduce material waste or improve cleaning quality, supported by trial data Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Training material development — creates job aids, visual guides, or reference cards for chemical mixing and machine control procedures that improve onboarding effectiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. New equipment openness — approaches unfamiliar machine models or control panels with willingness to learn rather than avoidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback acceptance — receives correction on chemical measurement technique or log entries from supervisors without defensiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill expansion — seeks to qualify on additional machine types beyond initial assignment to increase operational flexibility on the production floor Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Error learning — analyzes causes of off-spec batch outcomes to extract specific lessons rather than attributing failures to equipment alone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Continuous improvement pursuit — voluntarily participates in process reviews and updated training sessions when chemical handling regulations or equipment protocols change Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Challenge embrace — takes on difficult material types or high-volume production days as opportunities to build proficiency rather than as burdens Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mastery cultivation — pursues advanced knowledge of chemical processing science to deepen understanding of why specific concentrations and temperatures yield optimal cleaning outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer development investment — actively encourages struggling operators to persist through difficult learning phases, sharing strategies that supported personal skill development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Attention to gauges — maintains consistent visual monitoring of temperature gauges and pressure indicators throughout assigned cycles without distraction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Pre-task grounding — pauses before adding chemicals to verify correct substance, quantity, and equipment identity to prevent errors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Stress regulation — maintains steady, accurate machine operation during high-production-demand periods without rushing chemical additions or skipping monitoring steps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Sensory awareness — attends to machine sounds, odors, and visual cues as supplementary indicators of equipment condition alongside instrument readings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional monitoring rhythm — establishes a consistent personal schedule for checking gauges, thermometers, and chemical levels across multiple simultaneous machines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation under pressure — responds to equipment malfunctions with calm, systematic diagnosis rather than reactive or disorganized troubleshooting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful safety culture — models deliberate, unhurried chemical handling and machine operation practices that reduce accident risk across the work area Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Attentional mentorship — teaches newer operators techniques for sustaining focus during long monitoring shifts and recognizing cognitive fatigue that leads to gauge misreads Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical endurance — sustains required standing, lifting, and machine tending tasks throughout a full production shift in warm or chemically exposed environments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Routine persistence — continues accurate monitoring and logging tasks during repetitive, low-stimulation stretches of production cycles without lapsing in attention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Malfunction resilience — continues prioritized production tasks calmly while waiting for maintenance support after reporting an equipment issue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Exposure tolerance — adapts to working with industrial cleaning chemicals and physical discomforts such as heat, noise, and wet conditions without withdrawing from assigned duties Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-demand perseverance — maintains accuracy of chemical measurements, gauge monitoring, and log documentation through extended high-volume production runs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Setback recovery — resumes full productivity quickly following batch failures, equipment stoppages, or chemical spills after completing required corrective procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Sustained excellence under pressure — consistently delivers precise chemical processing outcomes across multiple consecutive demanding shifts without degradation in safety or quality standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Team fortitude modeling — provides steadying influence for coworkers during unplanned production disruptions, demonstrating composed problem-solving that restores team focus Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

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RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Operation and ControlOperations Monitoring
Knowledge domains
Production and ProcessingEnglish Language
Abilities
Near VisionInformation OrderingPerceptual SpeedArm-Hand SteadinessControl PrecisionCategory FlexibilityManual DexterityFinger DexterityMultilimb CoordinationTrunk Strength
Work styles
DependabilityAttention to DetailCautiousnessStress ToleranceIntegrityAchievement Orientation
Technology
Spreadsheet softwareWord processing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Add specified amounts of chemicals to equipment at required times to maintain solution levels and concentrations.
  2. Observe machine operations, gauges, or thermometers, and adjust controls to maintain specified conditions.
  3. Set controls to regulate temperature and length of cycles, and start conveyors, pumps, agitators, and machines.
  4. Drain, clean, and refill machines or tanks at designated intervals, using cleaning solutions or water.
  5. 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.
  6. Record gauge readings, materials used, processing times, or test results in production logs.
  7. Examine and inspect machines to detect malfunctions.
  8. Measure, weigh, or mix cleaning solutions, using measuring tanks, calibrated rods or suction tubes.
CIP education codes
52.020547.060747.060847.060947.061548.0503

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.