Pilot Plant Technician-1

Corteva Agriscience•Midland, MI

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Corteva Agriscience is seeking a Pilot Plant Technician for its Midland, MI Pilot Plant facility. This role is part of a team building the future of agriculture through science and technology. The Pilot Plant staff scales up chemical processes from laboratory to intermediate scale to produce new chemical intermediates and active ingredients, while collecting process data to enable full-scale manufacturing. The position requires shift work (12 or 10 hours based on production demand) with built-in overtime during campaigns, and a day shift schedule between campaigns. Schedules are published two weeks in advance. Working weekends and holidays may be necessary. The ideal candidate is initiative-taking, eager to learn, hardworking, and has a stable work history.

Requirements

High school diploma/GED.
At least 1 year of education and/or experience in a chemical manufacturing operating position.
Good technical and mechanical aptitude.
Commitment to safety and understanding of Environmental Health & Safety standards compliance.
Valid driver's license.
Good interpersonal skills, including good written and verbal communication.
Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
Commitment to continuous improvement with excellent troubleshooting capabilities and technical knowledge.
Ability to read, write, and speak English.
Willingness and ability to work in various environments wearing safety equipment (PPE), such as SCBA, respirators, earplugs, goggles, and steel-toed shoes.
Willingness and ability to perform work requiring frequent bending, reaching, and lifting, as well as standing/walking for extended periods.
Willingness and ability to work shift work (during campaigns) and a day shift schedule (between campaigns), including built-in overtime hours during shift work.
Schedules published at least two weeks prior to assignment.
Working weekends and holidays may be necessary based on business demands.

Responsibilities

Operate Pilot Plant unit operations, equipment, and process control systems for chemical reactions, distillations, crystallizations, filtrations, drying, packaging, and other processing steps safely and efficiently.
Handle raw materials, intermediates, and final Active Ingredients according to safety and quality standards.
Work shift work as required during campaigns for Active Ingredient production, solvent batching, and post-campaign cleaning.
Assist in developing operating procedures for new technologies, equipment configurations, and hazard responses.
Maintain Pilot Plant equipment and complete campaign process modifications using practices like minor demolition and pipe fitting.
Serve as the facility representative for maintenance and project crews working in the Pilot Plants.
Complete batch production records and other critical operating procedures during each campaign.
Collect samples and monitor process data, responding to process needs while adhering to Corteva standards.
Troubleshoot operational and mechanical problems.
Identify maintenance needs and participate in pre-maintenance equipment preparation.
Execute post-campaign equipment cleanout to prepare assets for subsequent campaigns.
Perform other duties as assigned.