Chemical Operator

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Working Status: Full-Time

JOB SUMMARY

Helps to achieve maximum productivity, meeting customer needs, in compliance with safety, environmental, and other regulatory requirements. Promotes a spirit of cooperation between all shifts and departments and demonstrates a commitment to achieve the goals and objectives of the team, department and plant. Must be able to read and follow standard operating procedure as well as follow regulatory requirements including OSHA, NJDEP, etc., related to the position.

• Operate and monitor process equipment and auxiliaries to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production.
• Troubleshoot equipment and process issues, implement corrective actions, and support continuous operation.
• Follow established procedures and training to maintain equipment reliability and maximize plant productivity.
• Complete batch sheets, conduct inspections, and maintain accurate records in systems such as SAP.
• Initiate and track work orders, reports, and safety notifications through completion.
• Perform in-process testing and maintain daily and month-end inventory accuracy.
• Adhere to production schedules, shipping requirements, and operational targets.
• Implement and follow safety protocols including PPE, permits, lockout/tagout, and pre-task hazard assessments.
• Identify, mitigate, and report unsafe conditions or behaviors promptly.
• Maintain housekeeping standards to ensure a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Participate in safety and operational programs such as HAZOPs, JSAs, and safety team initiatives.
• Contribute to continuous improvement projects and suggest cost-saving or efficiency ideas.
• Participate in training sessions, toolbox talks, and ongoing skill development.
• Work independently with minimal supervision while ensuring task completion and team support.

Co-Captain Responsibilities:

• Serve as a point of contact for the department and support shift coordination.
• Communicate instructions and critical information between shifts and leadership effectively.
• Assist team members with troubleshooting, decision-making, and maintaining safe operations.
• Support maintaining production schedules and operational continuity.
• Escalate issues impacting safety, quality, or production goals to management promptly.

KEY SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

• Process equipment operation and troubleshooting.
• Strong adherence to procedures and operational discipline.
• Safety compliance and hazard recognition/mitigation.
• Production efficiency and schedule adherence.
• Documentation accuracy and record-keeping (batch sheets, SAP).
• Problem-solving and corrective action execution.
• Initiative and ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Reliability, accountability, and leading by example.
• Team collaboration and effective shift-to-shift communication.
• Continuous improvement mindset and cost-awareness.
• Adaptability in physically demanding and fast-paced work environment.

BASIC QUALIFCATIONS:

• High school diploma or GED required
• 3–5 years of experience in a manufacturing, chemical, or industrial operations environment
• Proven ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot process equipment and auxiliaries
• Working knowledge of SOPs, production processes, and operational procedures
• Experience with safety practices including PPE, lockout/tagout (LOTO), permits, and hazard assessments
• Ability to complete batch documentation, inspections, and maintain accurate records (SAP or similar systems)
• Experience initiating and following through on work orders, reports, and corrective actions
• Basic computer proficiency (SAP, DCS, Excel or similar systems)
• Demonstrated reliability and ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, climb ladders/stairs, and work in confined spaces or elevated platforms

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in chemical or process manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with SAP, DCS, or other process control systems.
• Experience with in-process testing, inventory control, and month-end reporting.
• Participation in safety programs such as HAZOPs, JSAs, or safety teams.
• Experience contributing to continuous improvement or operational efficiency initiatives.
• Leadership or shift coordination experience (e.g., co-captain or team lead responsibilities).
• Strong understanding of production scheduling, shipping coordination, and plant operations.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: UBE is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.