Pilot Plant Technician Job

About the role

The Arkema N.A. Corporate R&D Headquarters in King of Prussia, PA has an opening for a Pilot Plant Technician in their multi-Business Unit pilot plant. This position reports directly to the Pilot Plant Manager and works closely with the pilot plant staff, Facilities & Maintenance team, HES, technical resources, and outside contractors.

Responsibilities

• Pilot Plant Operations:
  • Operate various pilot plant chemical processes and wastewater treatment and utility systems in accordance with standard operating and safety procedures.
  • Record detailed, operational data on operator run sheets and in laboratory log notebooks.
  • Perform basic troubleshooting of unexpected operations, participate in root-cause analysis of unplanned events, and contribute to implementation of associated corrective actions.
  • Develop basic understanding of process control systems and communicate issues to the pilot plant engineer.
  • Perform analytical quality control tests such as capillary rheometry, % solids analysis, pH, etc.
  • Participate in commissioning and start-up activities for new processes and projects.
  • Provide emergency backup, vacancy, and vacation coverage for boiler house operations when necessary.
  • Respond correctly to emergency situations following standardized procedures, responding in a professional and calm manner by contacting appropriate personnel to take further actions per procedure.
  • Train new employees on shift.
• Maintenance & Capital Improvement:
  • Utilize mechanical skills to construct new units and repair and improve various equipment systems.
  • Participate in 5S activities and other pilot plant and boiler house work area improvements.
  • Identify and communicate department maintenance needs to pilot plant operations coordinator and manager.
  • Ensures that safe work permitting process is followed, including issuing permits, and conducts inspections and safety checks as the maintenance and project work is being performed.
• Safety & Environmental:
  • Participates in the department’s monthly safety meeting and may act as the department’s safety advocate.
  • Performs safety inspections and identifies and elevates safety hazards or concerns to the Pilot Plant Manager and/or site HES Manager.
  • Participates in Process Hazard Analyses, Management of Change, Pre Startup Safety Reviews, and Incident Investigations and contributes to closure of associated action items.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required. Associates degree or equivalent experience preferred. Math skills are required for conducting basic calculations on the job.
• Demonstrated mechanical skills and ability to troubleshoot equipment issues are required.
• Instrumentation and/or electrical skills are preferred.
• 5 years of experience in a technical lab, production, maintenance (mechanical or instrumentation), or utilities environment is preferred.
• Must be proficient with Microsoft applications and have ability to operate chemical processes with use of computer controls. Familiarity with DCS preferred.
• Ability to read and modify technical drawings is preferred.
• Familiarity with federal health and safety regulations for chemical industry is desired.

Necessary Competencies

• Strong problem solving skills and bias for action.
• Ability to handle emergencies in a safe, calm, and professional manner.
• Ability to keep accurate records and convey information to others.
• Understanding of when to make an independent decision and when to ask for help.
• Has interest and displays a good attitude for continued learning. Takes advantage of training opportunities and applies skills to daily work. Actively seeks to learn and operate multiple processes in the pilot plant.