Subject Matter Expert (SME), Cold Side - Ethylene Production

Lotte Chemical USA Corporation•Westlake, LA

11d•Onsite

About The Position

This position acts as a Subject Matter Expert (“SME”) for the “cold side” of the ethylene production process. It provides critical field-based support for the optimized performance of the Cold Side of the Ethane Cracker Unit (ECU), where high-temperature cracked gases are rapidly cooled and separated into high-purity ethylene and various byproducts. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions. It does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

Requirements

Minimum of 10 years’ operations experience in petrochemical or similar industrial environment
Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems; experience with industrial heater exchangers, tubing, pumps, and rotating and stationary equipment generally used in plant operations
Ability to troubleshoot and resolve operational issues quickly and effectively
Proven skills in manufacturing
Extensive knowledge of operations processes and requirements
Familiarity with concepts, practices and procedures used in plant environment
Knowledge and understanding of EHS regulations and standards; experience with and knowledge of EHS requirements at assigned site
Excellent analysis skills required
Experience with emergency situations; demonstrated ability to adjust to special situations
Ability to multi-task and follow through on assignments
Good computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite; ability to use database systems and other programs and applications used by this position and at Company
Fluent in English language including reading, writing and speaking; ability to read and write at a minimum of high school level; ability to clearly communicate to all levels in organizati
High school diploma or equivalent required

Nice To Haves

Technical school degree helpful

Responsibilities

Functions as Subject Matter Expert for Plant Cold Side operations; focuses on monitoring, troubleshooting and advising on equipment performance and overall system health
Conducts routine field assessments of equipment and processes; supports and monitors cold side operations
Oversees charge gas and refrigeration compressors; maintains proper suction/discharge pressures
Controls interstage temperatures via intercoolers
Balances compressor loads; avoids liquid carryover to compressors
Ensures smooth cycling between absorption, regen, cool-down, and standby modes for molecular sieve charge gas dryers; prevents fluidization and dusting using flow switching
Monitors regen gas heating/cooling profile
Operates Acetylene Converter Reactor under tight H2:acetylene ratio; avoids over-hydrogenation; controls catalyst temperatures; ensures gas purity
Ensures zero moisture/hydrocarbons before entry; maintains balanced flows and pressures in heat exchangers; stabilizes turbo expander operation
Controls column pressure; handles reboiler and reflux ratio; manages hydraulic loading
Optimizes plant performance; maximizes yields
Supports safe execution of cold-side startups, shutdowns, and turnarounds
Troubleshoots and resolves process and/or equipment issues impacting operations
Coordinates with maintenance teams on preventive and corrective maintenance activities
Communicates regularly with control room operators, field technicians, and supervision to maintain alignment and situational awareness
Supports or leads incident investigations; drives timely corrective actions
Mentors and trains operations staff on cold side processes, troubleshooting, and safety practices
Assists with P&ID walkdowns, pre-job planning, and verification activities for critical tasks
Participates in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), HAZOP reviews, and Management of Change (MOC) processes
Coordinates with Hot Side and Utilities Specialists; ensures smooth, integrated plant operations
Ensures proper application of field safety procedures including LOTO, hot work permits, and confined space entry; complies with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements (e.g., PSM, OSHA, EPA)
Abides by all safety procedures and practices applicable to location and position; participates in appropriate safety training; demonstrates commitment to and support of EHSS principles and values; champions safety at all times; participates in and/or leads safety teams or projects as appropriate
Performs other duties assigned by management that generally fall within the expected scope of this position