Chemical Operator - Trainee - Louisville, KY
About The Position
The Chemical Operator trainee will support safe and efficient chemical manufacturing operations at Bakelite’s Louisville, Kentucky facility. The role involves learning and operating a range of equipment and processes, including bagging systems, material handling equipment, and batch and continuous process reactors. Operators use both automated control systems and manual controls to monitor production, troubleshoot issues, and adjust processes to meet quality requirements. The position also supports safety, quality, continuous improvement, and career development within manufacturing operations. The operator handles dry and wet raw materials, conducts in-process and final product testing, supports shipping and receiving, and performs minor maintenance with basic hand tools. Work takes place in facilities that may be outdoors, multi-level, and not temperature-controlled, including exposure to extreme conditions. The operator must follow required safety procedures and applicable OSHA, process safety management (PSM), and environmental regulations.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in a chemical plant, petrochemical, or industrial manufacturing environment is preferred.
- Mechanical aptitude and ability to perform basic hand-tool maintenance.
- Troubleshooting and problem-solving experience in a manufacturing setting.
- Ability to work in non-temperature-controlled environments, including outdoor and multi-level facilities in extreme conditions.
- Ability to lift 55 pounds.
- Must pass a proficiency exam, physical abilities test, drug screen, background check, and physical exam.
- Willingness and ability to use PPE, including safety shoes, hard hats, respirators, acid suits, and SCBA.
- Willingness and ability to work at heights with fall protection.
- Willingness and ability to obtain HazMat certification if not already certified.
- Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and SharePoint.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Nice To Haves
- Associate degree or higher in Production Technology, Engineering Technology, or a related field.
- Certifications or training in HazMat, Fire Brigade, or Emergency Response.
- Previous forklift certification.
- Experience with SAP and process control systems such as Delta V or Wonderware.
- Prior experience maintaining production equipment in a chemical manufacturing environment.
Responsibilities
- Operate chemical manufacturing processes using automated and manual control systems.
- Monitor production data, identify trends, troubleshoot problems, and adjust operations in real time.
- Conduct in-process and final product testing to ensure quality, and operate and maintain testing equipment.
- Safely handle dry and wet raw materials, including powders, flakes, and resins.
- Support shipping and receiving activities.
- Perform minor maintenance using basic hand tools.
- Follow safety procedures, promptly report concerns, and comply with OSHA, PSM, and environmental regulations.
- Collaborate on improvement projects that enhance safety, efficiency, and product quality.
- Learn chemical manufacturing equipment and processes, including bagging systems, material handling, and batch and continuous process reactors.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation
- Robust benefits
- Continued learning and development
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
