Chemical Operator

Arxada is a global leader in innovative solutions that protect our world. Our groundbreaking technologies, in-depth regulatory know-how, manufacturing and process development help our customers to safeguard nutrition, health and infrastructure efficiently through chemistry and biotechnology that enhance sustainability. We offer a broad portfolio of ingredients and services for multiple end-markets that include Human Health & Nutrition, Home & Personal Care, Professional Hygiene, Paints & Coatings and Wood Protection.

With customers in more than 100 countries, the company achieved sales of CHF 2 billion in 2024. Headquartered in Basel (Switzerland), Arxada employs 3,200 associates across 24 production sites and 14 R&D centers, all committed to our customers’ success.

Ready to take the next step in your career 2026 ? Arxada US is growing and hiring Chemical Operators at their plant in Rochester, NY, USA

The Chemical Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient operation of chemical manufacturing processes. This role involves operating and monitoring production equipment, handling raw materials and finished goods, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring compliance with all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.

Essential Job Functions:

• Operate, monitor, start up, shut down, and adjust chemical processing equipment including pumps, valves, reactors, mixers, and distillation columns.
• Safely handle raw materials and hazardous chemicals throughout the production process.
• Take process and product samples and perform basic quality checks (e.g., pH, concentration) to ensure products meet specifications.
• Package finished products into drums, pails, and totes according to established procedures.
• Perform routine inspections, cleaning, and minor maintenance of equipment to ensure reliable operation.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and equipment issues and report abnormal conditions to supervision in a timely manner.
• Accurately document production data, process conditions, inspections, and incidents.
• Handle hazardous waste in compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
  
  

Qualifications & Experience:

• High school diploma or GED required; associate’s degree preferred.
  
  

3–5 years of experience in a manufacturing environment preferred; entry-level candidates will be considered.

• Previous experience in chemical manufacturing or with chemical processes is a plus, but not required. Candidates with strong work ethic, integrity, accountability, and reliability are highly valued, and training will be provided for job-specific operations.
• Comfortable using computers, production systems, and hand tools.
• Ability to acquire and maintain a working knowledge of current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and ISO requirements.
• Willingness and ability to work overtime as business needs require.
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on safety and quality.
• Technical aptitude with mechanical and process equipment.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based environment.
  
  

The expected salary range for this role is pays between $26.00 to $27.00 an hour, but specific employee compensation may vary depending on factors including experience, education, training, licensure, certification, location and other job-related, non-discriminatory factors permitted by law.  All candidates must be able to work rotating shifts and will receive a shift differential.

This role is also eligible to earn a short-term incentive bonus and the following benefits: 401(k) plan, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, paid time off, paid holidays and paid sick leave. 

Progression: Junior roles involve learning basics, while senior operators troubleshoot complex problems and train others.

Arxada has world class offering in two distinct areas:

Microbial Control Solutions (MCS) focuses on threats posed by microorganisms to people and planet through five distinct business lines including Professional Hygiene, Home & Personal Care, Wood Protection, Paints & Coatings and Material Protection.

Nutrition, Care & Environmental (NCE), meanwhile, provides materials used to manufacture composites for electronics, aerospace and other markets, as well as vitamins and nutritional ingredients, chemicals and performance intermediates, and raw materials for a wide range of high-performance applications.

Arxada is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a qualified individual with disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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