R&D Pilot Plant Operator

Albemarle•Pasadena, TX

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

Are you ready to move your career forward and help shape our company’s and customers’ futures? If you aspire to challenge yourself, work with the best in the industry and join a successful team where you can make a meaningful contribution, then we invite you to join us at Ketjen Corporation, a provider of advanced catalyst solutions to leading producers in the petrochemical, refining, and specialty chemicals industries. Together, we can create a legacy marked by innovation, excitement, and energy. Ketjen is hiring for an R&D Pilot Plant Operator. This position is hybrid and located in [enter location].

Requirements

Minimum of 1 to 4 years’ experience in lab or operating plant environment; plant/pilot plant operating experience preferred.
Working knowledge of research procedures and methods.
Solid computer spreadsheet, math and database skills.
Strong initiative to complete tasks and good communication skills.
Ability to work with minimum supervision.
Safe and responsible individuals, with a desire to learn in a fast paced, changing environment.
Ability to safely perform all physical demands associated with the role.

Nice To Haves

Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
Knowledge and experience in equipment operation.
Computer skills and an industrial background.
Process technology course or equivalent.

Responsibilities

Train to work with minimal supervision, independently carrying out catalyst preparations in the pilot plant in support of existing and new product development efforts led by Researchers/chemists and the pilot plant supervisor.
Manipulate spreadsheets, compound FCC catalyst slurries, spray-dry, post process, record process data, and verify the quality of catalyst preparations.
Provide needed support to the plant for new product and technology trials, and other plant support as needed.
Properly handle small scale analytical methods with training (such as LOI, viscosity measurements, pH meters, etc.).
Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills are vital to this position.
Operate equipment, utilize computer skills, and leverage industrial background.
Daily handling of filled containers (50 lbs.), maneuvering of 55-gallon drums, use of a forklift, repair pumps, among other tasks.
Some overtime will be required.
Follow procedures and SOPs closely, and explain and document deviations.
Perform catalyst preparations with high productivity and quality.
Communicate effectively and timely with pilot plant supervisors and all other customers including other researchers and manufacturing contacts.
Carry out all work with no safety incidents, and proactively deal with potential safety issues.
Ensure raw materials are readily available and qualified for use.
Maintain the pilot plant well-organized, neat, and clean at all times.
Demonstrated ability to quickly adapt to rapidly changing priorities with good attitude.