What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chemical Operator Trainee position at Eastman?
Founded in 1920, Eastman is a global specialty materials company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in a material way, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. The company’s innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms, deep customer engagement, and differentiated application development to grow its leading positions in attractive end markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. As a globally inclusive company, Eastman employs approximately 14,000 people around the world and serves customers in more than 100 countries. The company had 2024 revenue of approximately $9.4 billion and is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.
Job Description:
This position is an excellent opportunity for a Chemical Operator Trainee to work in our Chestertown, Maryland manufacturing plant. Employment as the Chemical Operator Trainee is described below. Individuals must successfully perform the trainee duties to be considered for advancement into one of our other positions in the plant.
This is a full-time position.
Responsibilities:
- This position, reporting to the Operations Team Manager, is responsible to operate all manufacturing equipment independently, without direct supervision, to produce quality products.
- This includes a knowledge of the capacities, materials construction, agitation, and heat capabilities of reactors, vessels and tanks and of the available routes of product transfers from one tank to another.
- Must be proactive in correcting appropriate computer inventory entries in SAP, filling out and completing all paperwork.
- Must be able to multi-task to effectively manage and operate several pieces of equipment at one time. Operators must learn to sample and test samples with accuracy following lab procedures.
- This position requires an individual to operate in a team environment while assisting with daily operations, safety programs, etc.
- On and off-site training will be provided to prepare individuals to perform work safely such as tank entries for cleanings, spill cleanup, DOT training, CPR/First aid, etc.
Job Expectations:
- Must follow all safety procedures.
- Must wear company-provided personal protective equipment such as safety shoes, safety glasses with side shields, and hard hats at all times in designated areas. Dust mask, rubber gloves, face shields, and other protective equipment must be worn when required.
- Must have flexibility to work rotating shifts that could change with a minimum of 2 weeks’ notice. Overtime work is required from time to time.
- Have a strong work ethic, demonstrating both initiative and a professional attitude.
- Basic computer skills required.
- Must have clear and concise verbal and written communication skills.
- Must be able to apply mechanical fundamentals to properly operate and maintain the performance of the equipment within their area of responsibility.
- Must be able to perform the essential elements of the positions with or without reasonable accommodations.
Qualifications:
- Industrial, construction, or military experience preferred.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must have valid driver's license.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Education:
- High School Diploma/GED Required.
- General Chemistry knowledge preferred.
The starting rate for this position is $27.75 per hour.
At Eastman, we are committed to transparency and integrity in our compensation practices. Eastman includes salary ranges in some job postings to provide clear compensation information and to be compliant with state laws that require disclosure. Not all postings display ranges due to factors like location, market conditions, or position specifics. Compensation is based on qualifications and experience. Candidates are encouraged to discuss their salary questions during the interview process.
Benefits
Your total rewards go far beyond a competitive salary. When you join Eastman, you gain access to an exceptional suite of programs designed to protect your health, grow your wealth, and fuel your career.
Compensation & Incentives
- Base pay plus performance-based incentive opportunities that let you share in our success.
Health & Wellness
- Comprehensive medical, prescription-drug, and dental coverage—paired with a Health Savings Account option to help you save tax-free dollars for care today or in the future.
- A robust menu of voluntary benefits—including vision, optional life, critical-illness protection, and more—so you can tailor coverage to fit your life.
- Holistic wellness support: financial-planning tools, family-building assistance (adoption, pregnancy, and fertility resources), parental leave, and confidential Employee Assistance Program counseling.
Retirement & Financial Strategies
- 401(k) with a company match—plus an additional annual retirement contribution from Eastman to accelerate your long-term savings.
Time Away
- Eleven paid holidays, one personal day, paid time off, and paid vacation to recharge, celebrate, or handle life’s moments.
Growth & Development
- Access to mentorship, learning resources, and leadership programs that empower you to thrive in your current role and chart the next steps in your career.
At Eastman, we invest in the whole you—so you can bring your best self to work every day and build a future you’re proud of.
Eastman Chemical Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status or any other protected classes as designated by law.
Eastman is committed to creating a powerfully engaged workplace, where everyone can contribute to their fullest potential each day.
Salary : $28
