2026 Operator Apprentice
About The Position
Operator Apprentice undergoes structured training to learn how to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of chemical production processes at Eastman’s Longview manufacturing site. Under the guidance of qualified trainers and experienced operators, the Apprentice learns to monitor process equipment from both the control room and the field, collect samples, and perform routine inspections. This developmental role focuses heavily on completing ongoing training, mastering disciplined procedures, gaining situational awareness at the operator cockpit, and successfully building the technical capabilities required to eventually transition into independent operation. Completion of the 3-year apprentice program is required to transition to a fully certified Operator. The program includes classroom training (done outside of normal work schedule) on job learning and on-going satisfactory job performance.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Basic computer literacy with Microsoft Office
- Valid driver’s license
- At least 3 years of previous work experience OR an Associate's degree in Process Technology, Production Technology, Process Operations, Energy Systems Technology or a related program
- Completion of WorkKeys assessments with minimum scores: Applied Math – Operator 5, Graphic Literacy – Operator 4, Workplace Documents – Operator 5.
- WorkKeys test results must be dated within the last 5 years.
- Successful completion of Select Assessment ® for Manufacturing administered by Talogy.
Nice To Haves
- Applied Technology WorkKeys score is a factor and reviewed by hiring managers.
Responsibilities
- Operate, monitor, and control chemical production processes from the control room and field environment.
- Assist with starting up, running, and shutting down process equipment including pumps, compressors, reactors, and distillation columns under direct supervision.
- Monitor parameters such as temperature, pressure, and flow rates, and learn to collect samples and record operational data.
- Actively study and champion site safety rules, environmental regulations, and company safety policies.
- Leverage operational disciplines to develop strong situational awareness and perform complete equipment monitoring rounds.
- Maintain a clean work area, report unsafe conditions, and learn process safety management standards under close mentorship.
- Develop the capability to recognize abnormal process conditions and work alongside experienced operators to troubleshoot root causes and determine appropriate corrective actions.
- Learn the escalation pathway for complex issues to leadership, maintenance, or engineering teams.
- Participate in daily shift exchanges to build communication and teamwork skills.
- Work closely with mentors on rotating crews, area leadership, and support teams to absorb operational knowledge and understand best practices.
- Focus on active learning, participating in procedure reviews from a training perspective, and participating in team meetings to understand consistency across shifts.
- Perform routine equipment inspections and operator-level maintenance under supervision.
- Train on managing work permits, executing equipment isolation, and performing lockout/tagout procedures as technical competence increases.
- Maintain accurate shift records and document transitions to prepare for future independent assignments.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
