Chemical Operator

Job Summary The Chemical Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating chemical processing equipment and supporting chemical production activities in accordance with established operating procedures, safety requirements, and quality standards.

Depending on experience level, the position may range from learning basic chemical processing operations to independently operating complex process equipment, troubleshooting equipment and processes, training other operators, and coordinating shift activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor a variety of chemical processing equipment, including:

• Reaction systems

• Distillation systems

• Filters

• Extractors

• Autoclaves

• Reactors

• Pumps

• Centrifuges

• Safely load and unload raw materials, intermediates, and finished products into and out of process equipment.

• Set up, operate, and adjust indicating and controlling devices.

• Monitor and record chemical reactions, including changes in chemical and physical properties and composition.

• Adjust valves and controls to maintain required temperature, pressure, and vacuum levels.

• Maintain accurate logs of gauge readings, production activity, and equipment malfunctions.

• Draw product samples and perform testing to ensure products meet specifications.

• Inspect equipment for malfunctions and mechanical defects and report issues appropriately.

• Support troubleshooting and, where qualified, perform maintenance and repair of chemical processing equipment.

• Identify opportunities to improve production methods, equipment performance, operating efficiency, and working conditions.

• Follow established operating procedures and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.

• Promote and support company safety and quality initiatives.

• Respond appropriately to emergency situations and immediately address or report activities that may pose a safety risk.

• Experienced operators may train other operations personnel in chemical process setup, equipment operation, safety, maintenance, and repair.

• Senior-level operators may coordinate chemical operations and employee activities during assigned shifts.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required & Preferred Qualifications

• Previous chemical processing, process operations, manufacturing, production, or equivalent industrial experience is preferred.
• Completion of a chemical/operator training program or equivalent experience is preferred for experienced-level positions.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and manual dexterity.
• Strong mathematical and reading skills.
• Ability to understand and follow detailed operating procedures.
• Ability to monitor equipment, process conditions, and production data accurately.
• Strong attention to safety and quality.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Senior-level candidates should have experience training operators, coordinating shift activities, troubleshooting processes, or supporting equipment maintenance.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to occasionally lift up to 65 lbs. from the knees and waist.
• Adequate eyesight to perform required job functions.
• Ability to wear a respirator when required.
• Ability to work overtime and flexible hours when needed.
• Ability to work safely around chemical processing equipment and production environments.

Training

• New hires will complete required classroom training for RCRA General Awareness within the first 6 months of employment, with recurring training completed annually.
• 120 hours of on-the-job training will be completed within the first 90 days of employment.
• Training and responsibilities will vary based on the individual's experience and operator level.

Level Considerations

Chemical Operator - Trainee / II / III

Chemical Operator II Experienced operator capable of independently operating chemical processing equipment and demonstrating competency with process controls, monitoring, documentation, sampling, and production activities.

Chemical Operator III Senior-level operator with extensive chemical process equipment knowledge who may train other operators, coordinate shift activities, respond to emergency situations, troubleshoot equipment, and support maintenance and repair activities.