Pilot Plant Operations Technician

AVN Corporation•South Charleston, WV

6d•Onsite

About The Position

AVN is seeking an experienced, adaptable Pilot Plant Operations Technician to support the construction, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of pilot-scale chemical facilities. The role provides hands-on experience with a wide variety of technologies and processes across research, process development, and chemical manufacturing. The technician works alongside engineers, operators, and instrumentation personnel to safely construct, operate, maintain, and improve pilot plant systems. Work spans project phases including design, startup, operation, and decommissioning. The position is based in South Charleston, West Virginia. Normal hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with irregular hours possible based on project needs, including rotating or evening shifts, 10- or 12-hour workdays, and weekend coverage. Occasional overtime is required and compensated at 1.5 times hourly pay. AVN offers competitive pay based on experience and a benefits package supporting employee health and financial well-being.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 3 years of experience in chemical operations, chemical manufacturing, pilot plant operations, maintenance, or a related industrial environment.
Working knowledge of process equipment, piping systems, and chemical operations.
Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
Ability to understand and execute safe work practices.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.
Strong written communication and documentation skills.
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
Ability to climb stairs and ladders and work at elevated locations.
Ability to work in industrial environments, including outdoor conditions and confined spaces.
Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including respirators, hearing protection, FR clothing, and chemical-resistant PPE.

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Process Technology, Industrial Technology, Chemistry, or a related field.
Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline.
Five or more years of experience in chemical processing, pilot plant operations, or industrial manufacturing.
Experience with distributed control systems (DCS).
Experience with basic analytical techniques such as gas chromatography, titration, or process sampling.
Experience with pilot plant construction, commissioning, and startup activities.

Responsibilities

Operate pilot-scale chemical processing equipment using field controls and distributed control systems (DCS).
Execute operating procedures and experimental run plans.
Monitor process conditions and respond appropriately to process deviations.
Collect and document research-quality operating data and observations.
Assist with pilot plant construction and modification projects.
Install tubing, small-bore piping, process equipment, valves, and instrumentation.
Support rigging and equipment placement activities.
Read and understand basic engineering drawings, P&IDs, and equipment layouts.
Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on mechanical equipment.
Troubleshoot pumps, valves, piping systems, instruments, and process equipment.
Assist engineers in identifying and resolving operational challenges.
Participate in equipment startup, shutdown, and turnaround activities.
Collect process samples safely and accurately.
Perform basic analytical testing and routine laboratory measurements.
Assist with handling high-pressure, reactive, flammable, or hazardous materials.
Document and communicate analytical results and observations.
Execute and support Life Critical Work Processes, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), Safe Work Permits, Hot Work Permits, Confined Space Entry, and Elevated Work Activities.
Follow HSES procedures and operating standards.
Maintain proper chemical handling, labeling, storage, and waste management practices.
Participate in safety reviews, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Train and mentor less experienced technicians.
Support facility housekeeping and maintenance activities.
Contribute to a positive, collaborative team environment.
Assist with special projects and other operational needs as assigned.