Operations Co-op

Hydrite•Cottage Grove, WI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Operations Co‑Op – Chemical Operator is a part‑time, developmental position designed for current engineering students to gain hands‑on manufacturing experience while supporting plant operations. The primary responsibility of this role is to perform the duties of a Chemical Operator in accordance with established safety, quality, and regulatory standards. In addition to core operator responsibilities, this role provides structured exposure to engineering, process improvement, and cross‑functional projects to support long‑term development into technical, engineering, or operations leadership roles. Work Schedule: Academic Year: 20–25 hours per week (typically two shifts) Summer & Winter Breaks: Full‑time employment Shift work required; schedule flexibility coordinated with academic commitments

Requirements

Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related engineering discipline, or pursuing an associates degree in a related field.
Ability to work in a manufacturing / chemical production environment
Basic computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office
Strong communication skills and ability to follow written and verbal instructions
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Ability to lift up to 100 lbs on occasion, 50 lbs. frequently.
Able to stand for up to 12 hours per day.
Able to climb ladders and work at heights up to 50 feet on occasion.
Able to perform manual dexterity tasks.
Ability to do repetitive motions like bent, twist, stoop, and lift frequently.
Must be able to work in an uncooled warehouse/plant where temperatures may reach 130 Fahrenheit. Must be able to work outside in extreme heat and cold temperatures.
Due to safety concerns, the wearing of contact lenses is prohibited.
Ability to wear a respirator for up to 6 hours a day. Please refer to the SOP for facial hair guidelines.

Nice To Haves

Forklift experience preferred (training provided if needed)

Responsibilities

Safely operate chemical processes by adjusting variables such as temperature, pressure, feed rates, and sampling in accordance with SOPs
Comply with all safety, environmental, and regulatory programs (OSHA, RCRA, Title V, Air Permits, etc.)
Participate in all required Environmental, Health & Safety and process‑specific training
Maintain housekeeping standards in assigned areas and use required PPE
Complete regulatory paperwork, inspections, checklists, batch logs, and vessel documentation as assigned
Accurately record production data including ingredients, weights, temperatures, and process conditions
Monitor chemical treatment equipment, control panels, flow meters, and instrumentation
Respond appropriately to alarms and abnormal operating conditions
Take chemical samples and perform basic testing to ensure processes are operating within specifications
Tank transfers
Bulk truck or railcar loading/unloading
Container filling and emptying
Bag and supersack dumping
Pump‑outs and material handling
Utilize systems to complete material transfers, inventory tracking, logs, and work orders
Communicate equipment, safety, or compliance concerns to the Shift Supervisor or Senior Operator
Support continuous improvement efforts and recommend updates to SOPs or process equipment as appropriate
Participate in emergency response activities and associated training
Uphold Hydrite’s Standard of Excellence through a continuous commitment to maintain quality facilities and provide quality products and services to internal and external customers.
Participate in RCRA, regulatory, health & safety and process training activities as required. Review changes/additions with your supervisor. Must be RCRA compliant.
Regular attendance is essential.
Perform all duties outlined in relevant SOPs and all other duties to be assigned.
Work with other staff members to maintain workload balances. Provide back-up support as necessary.
Support effective communication with all Hydrite departments where responsibilities overlap to ensure success of the branch team.

Benefits

Up to 10% Retirement Contribution
$600 per Year Wellness Incentive
Two Weeks Starting Paid Time Off
Medical, Dental, and Vision - Eligible first day of the month following hire date.
401k and profit sharing
medical/dental/vision/life insurance
paid time off
tuition reimbursement
adoption assistance
legal services insurance
scholarship awards for children of employees
summer picnic
community giving events
free family wellness coaching including nutritionist and fitness coach