Operator Trainee

FLSA Status: Non Exempt

About the role

The Refinery Operator Trainee is an entry-level position responsible for supporting safe and efficient refinery operations by monitoring, maintaining, and operating various machines involved in the refinery process. The trainee works closely with the Unit Operator, reports readings, opens and closes valves, operates pumps, takes required samples, and performs incidental maintenance tasks. Additionally, participation in the fire brigade or emergency response team is required.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED (Required)
• Vocational / Technical Degree (Preferred)
• 2 year / Associate Degree (Preferred)
• In lieu of the above education requirements, an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• One (1) or more years experience working in a fast-paced environment (Required)
• One (1) or more years training & participation on the Fire Brigade and Emergency Response Team (Preferred)
• Two (2) or more years experience in refining process, chemical facility or heavy industrial environment (Preferred)
• Two (2) or more years experience in mechanical or industrial maintenance position (Preferred)
• Valid Driver’s license and a clean driving record
• Must be able to pass pre-employment background screening and drug screen
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States

Responsibilities

• Monitor and operate process units using a wide range of control systems and equipment that includes tanks, mixers, heat exchangers, pumps, furnaces, and vacuum systems.
• Regulate product flow, temperature control, pressure regulation, and other functions necessary for the safe and efficient function of the units.
• Read and explain processing schedules, operations logs, and laboratory results to determine if adjustments are required to maintain the quality of the product.
• Continuously enhance one’s knowledge of the equipment and keep up with changes in individual process systems.
• Sample liquids and gases for chemical characteristics, color, gravity, etc.
• Collect and deliver samples to the laboratory to identify product quality issues.
• Perform housekeeping to maintain a clean work environment and clean equipment such as filters, tanks, exchangers, and other equipment.
• Communicate with the Unit Operator, Maintenance, and Supervisor to make field adjustments in response to changing process conditions to address or prevent issues.
• Follow all Company safety and environmental practices.
• Able to work a twelve (12) hour rotating shift schedule, holidays, and overtime.
• Ability to lift fifty (50) pounds and climb vertical heights up to 200 feet.
• Ability to participate in an emergency response and handle 2½” fire hose.
• Ability to work in confined spaces and wear self-contained breathing apparatus.

Occasionally within shift (1-33%): Climbing

Occasionally within shift (1-33%): Weight lifted / force exerted up to 50 pounds

Skills

• Oral and written communications
• Attention to detail
• Learning agility
• Safety and environmental compliance
• Standards and procedures
• Equipment operations

Core Competencies

• Change Agility (Developing): Identifies, initiates, and adapts to organizational changes that foster enhanced effectiveness, efficiency, safety, and ultimately business results.
• Collaboration (Developing): Sees connection points across the organization and partners effectively with others to achieve common goals.
• Decision Making (Developing): Sees connection points across the organization and partners effectively with others to achieve common goals.
• Drive For Results (Developing): Drives to achieve challenging performance objectives.
• Team Building (Developing): Builds trust, fosters openness, and provides support. As the manager of a team, selects and motivates a strong team.

Schedule

Twelve (12) hour rotating shift schedule, including holidays and overtime.