Chemical Pilot Plant Operator

RTI International•Durham, NC

141d•$55,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

This role operates within a 24/7 pilot plant environment and requires flexibility to support continuous operations. Team members may work 12-hour shifts across both daytime and overnight hours, including weekends and holidays as needed. Shift assignments are based on business needs and may rotate over time. Candidates should be comfortable working extended shifts and adapting to a schedule that ensures round-the-clock coverage. Pilot Plant & Laboratory Operations Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot pilot-scale systems including reactors, pumps, compressors, and separation equipment Support experimental campaigns by identifying process deviations and communicating issues to engineering staff Install, calibrate, and maintain analytical instruments such as gas chromatographs and gas analyzers Record and analyze operational data, preparing clear summaries, charts, and reports Assist in developing and improving standard operating procedures (SOPs) Sample Collection & Laboratory Support Collect, label, and prepare samples from pilot plant operations Ensure proper handling and preparation in accordance with established laboratory protocols Equipment Maintenance & Technical Support Perform routine maintenance to ensure safe and reliable equipment operation Troubleshoot mechanical and instrumentation issues and coordinate repairs with engineering teams Assist with system upgrades and modifications as needed Safety & Compliance Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of PPE and handling of hazardous materials Maintain compliance with safety standards and immediately report any incidents or concerns Contribute to a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement

Requirements

High School Diploma with at least 10 years of relevant hands-on experience, or an Associate’s Degree with a minimum of 5 years of experience in a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and practical experience.
Strong foundation in chemical or process operations
Experience working with laboratory or pilot-scale equipment in a hands-on environment
Strong understanding of basic chemical process operations
Hands-on mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
Experience working with laboratory or process equipment
Ability to follow detailed procedures and document deviations
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail
Effective communication and teamwork skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)

Nice To Haves

Experience in pilot plant or industrial process environments
Familiarity with gas chromatography or process analytical instrumentation
Background in chemical processing, energy systems, or related fields

Responsibilities

Operate, monitor, and troubleshoot pilot-scale systems including reactors, pumps, compressors, and separation equipment
Support experimental campaigns by identifying process deviations and communicating issues to engineering staff
Install, calibrate, and maintain analytical instruments such as gas chromatographs and gas analyzers
Record and analyze operational data, preparing clear summaries, charts, and reports
Assist in developing and improving standard operating procedures (SOPs)
Collect, label, and prepare samples from pilot plant operations
Ensure proper handling and preparation in accordance with established laboratory protocols
Perform routine maintenance to ensure safe and reliable equipment operation
Troubleshoot mechanical and instrumentation issues and coordinate repairs with engineering teams
Assist with system upgrades and modifications as needed
Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of PPE and handling of hazardous materials
Maintain compliance with safety standards and immediately report any incidents or concerns
Contribute to a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement

Benefits

competitive base salary
generous paid time off policy
merit based annual increases
bonus opportunities
robust recognition program
competitive range of insurance plans (including health, dental, life, and short-term and long-term disability)
access to a retirement savings program such as a 401(k) plan
paid parental leave for all parents
financial assistance with adoption expenses or infertility treatments
financial reimbursement for education and developmental opportunities
employee assistance program
numerous other offerings to support a healthy work-life balance