Chemical Operator 3 - 2nd Shift

KIK Consumer Products•Salem, VA

8d•$30 - $36•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Chemical Operator 3 on 2nd Shift (4:00 pm–2:30 am, Monday–Friday, with weekends as business needs require). As a Chemical Operator 3, you will serve as the technical expert responsible for producing complex chemical formulations while leading operational excellence across the processing department. In addition to independently executing advanced batch processes, you'll troubleshoot production challenges, mentor and train less experienced Operators, optimize manufacturing processes, and partner with Quality and Maintenance to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations. Success in this role is measured by consistently delivering high-quality products, improving operational efficiency, resolving technical process issues, supporting team development, and serving as a trusted resource for technical expertise across the operation. This position has a base hourly rate of $30.00 - $36.00, plus a $1.00-per-hour shift differential.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required, plus at least 5 years of experience in chemical processing, batching, blending, compounding, or chemical manufacturing, including experience independently running complex batches
Advanced knowledge of batch tickets, formulas, SOPs, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), chemical handling practices, and process-control requirements
Demonstrated experience troubleshooting batch, equipment, and quality issues and making sound process decisions within established procedures and authorization limits
Proficiency performing and interpreting wet-chemistry and in-process testing, such as titration, pH, specific gravity, filter testing, or water-hardness testing
Advanced mechanical aptitude and experience operating, adjusting, and performing minor repairs or preventive maintenance on mixers, pumps, valves, filtration systems, tanks, and transfer lines
Valid forklift certification and demonstrated experience safely handling drums, totes, bulk materials, and packaged chemicals
Demonstrated ability to train, coach, or mentor other employees and coordinate effectively with Quality, Maintenance, Production leadership, and other support functions
Strong communication, documentation, organization, problem-solving, and leadership skills, with a consistent safety-first approach
Ability to work independently and provide technical direction in a fast-paced, 24/7 manufacturing environment, including overtime, weekends, and schedule changes as business needs require
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods; lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds; frequently bend, reach, handle hoses and connections, and climb stairs or ladders; and work around fumes, odors, noise, and varying temperatures while wearing required PPE, with or without reasonable accommodation

Responsibilities

Own the safe and accurate execution of complex chemical batches from raw-material verification and staging through mixing, testing, adjustment, and transfer to packaging
Interpret batch tickets and technical guidance; verify material identity, quantities, and addition sequence; and adjust mix time, temperature, agitation, or other parameters within approved limits
Perform and interpret in-process and finished-product testing, including titration, pH, specific gravity, filter testing, or water-hardness testing; partner with Quality to investigate and resolve out-of-specification results
Lead troubleshooting of processing, equipment, and material-flow issues; perform minor mechanical repairs and preventive maintenance and coordinate with Maintenance on more complex problems
Coach and train Chemical Operator 1 and 2 employees on safe work practices, batch execution, equipment operation, quality checks, documentation, and troubleshooting
Review batch records, quality logs, cleaning documentation, and electronic entries for completeness and accuracy; communicate shift status, risks, and recommendations during handoffs
Support process improvements, trials, root-cause investigations, SOP updates, 5S activities, and other initiatives that improve safety, quality, efficiency, or waste reduction
Model compliance with OSHA hazardous-material procedures, GMPs, environmental requirements, PPE standards, and emergency-response expectations, serving as a knowledgeable resource during drills and events