Chemical Operator

Position Summary

The Engineered Nylons Department runs a batch process to produce various types of nylon resin. The Chemical Operator doses raw materials and performs all process steps for the mix tank, evaporator, reactor, pelletizer, and material transfer to storage tanks. Further processing responsibilities include resin transfer, drying, sample testing and packaging of final product. The Chemical Operator works a rotating shift schedule in a non-climate-controlled area.

Essential Functions

• Operates a variety of equipment to correctly dose all raw materials
• Stages, prepares, lifts, and loads raw materials into Acid Hoppers
• Selects product recipes and initiates the program to automatically dose bulk acids
• Unloads raw material supply trucks
• Operates the control system to dose water and bulk liquid materials
• Measures and doses proper amounts of manual acids and additive materials
• Executes the process cycle for the mix tank, evaporator, reactor, and pelletizer

• Executes the “dryer cycle” from the storage tanks to the sealed package:
  • Load the dryer
  • Perform leak checks
  • Operate vacuum dryer systems to tumble and dry resin
  • Collect samples, test moisture and color, and interpret results
  • Unload the dryer and package into boxes/drums
  • Label finished product with the correct part, weight, and lot number
• Maintain product traceability
• Collect and submit samples for QA testing
• Performs dryer steam outs to remove buildup in the vacuum lines

• Adheres to all policies and procedures for safe and efficient operation
• Follows operating procedures and instructions per batch process sheets
• Monitors and controls process variables, such as time, temperature, pressure, and tank level
• Sets valves, switches, pumps, and other components per production specifications
• Investigates and resolves process alarms and upset events
• Coordinates with maintenance to diagnose and correct equipment issues
• Completes product change, startup, and shutdown activities

Secondary Functions

• Works in a safe manner and maintains general housekeeping
• Demonstrates commitment to customer quality, business results and continuous improvement
• Expected to increase knowledge of the Engineered Nylons operation and progressively improve individual performance
• Manages daily tasks to achieve target production rates
• Supports rework activities
• Other assignments as requested

Position Specifications

• Rotating shift work required
• Overtime required as needed to cover absence/vacation
• Strong listening and communication skills
• Strong attention to detail and organization skills required
• Strong mechanical aptitude and ability to troubleshoot problems
• Basic computer skills
• Must demonstrate commitment to safety
• Must demonstrate a willingness and desire to learn
• Must demonstrate effective time management and sound judgment
• Ability to make basic mathematical calculations
• Ability to read information and numbers and write legibly
• Must demonstrate a willingness to assist other operators when necessary
• Ability to lift 60 pounds
• Forklift license a plus

Job Training

• New Hire Orientation
• Engineered Nylons Safety Orientation
• Reactor Orientation Training
• NWA/SPC training
• Forklift Certification
• Confined Space Certification

Required education and experience

High school diploma or equivalent required

Experience as a Chemical Operator preferred

Skills Progression Matrix

There are 8 pay rates within the Chemical operator position, based on the employee’s knowledge, skill, and experience.

Operators may advance to the next pay rate once they have met the skill level description and pre-requisites.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of responsibilities for these positions and are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of this position. Company management may assign other relevant, business-related duties.