Plant Operations Technician Job

About the role

Join Arkema's Innovation Team at the North America Corporate R&D Headquarters in King of Prussia, PA. This hands-on position combines plant operations, mechanical maintenance, process troubleshooting, and continuous improvement in a dynamic R&D environment. The role operates on a rotating shift (1st & 2nd shift) schedule and may require occasional schedule flexibility to support operational needs.

Responsibilities

• Plant Operations (75%)
  • Safely operate pilot plant processes, wastewater treatment systems, and utility equipment in accordance with established operating procedures.
  • Monitor process performance using control systems and accurately document operational data, observations, and test results.
  • Troubleshoot process and equipment issues, participate in root cause investigations, and support corrective actions.
  • Conduct routine quality control testing, including pH analysis, solids content determination, and rheology testing.
  • Support commissioning, start-up, and optimization of new pilot plant processes and technologies.
  • Respond effectively and professionally to emergency situations by following established procedures.
• Maintenance & Continuous Improvement (15%)
  • Apply mechanical skills to build, modify, repair, and improve pilot plant equipment and systems.
  • Participate in 5S and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance workplace organization, safety, and efficiency.
  • Identify maintenance needs through inspections and safety checks, then collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to prioritize repairs.
  • Support contractor activities and ensure safe work permit processes are followed during maintenance and project work.
• Safety, Health & Environmental Excellence (10%)
  • Actively contribute to a strong safety culture by participating in safety programs, inspections, and hazard identification activities and serving as a safety advocate throughout the facility.
  • Support Process Hazard Analyses (PHA), Management of Change (MOC), Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR), and incident investigations.
  • Identify potential safety concerns and partner with site leadership to implement corrective actions.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and experience troubleshooting equipment and systems.
• Math skills and ability to perform routine operational calculations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and computer-based operating systems.
• Ability to work safely in an industrial environment and on a rotating shift schedule.

Preferred Qualifications

• 3 – 5 years of experience in a chemical manufacturing, pilot plant, laboratory, maintenance, utilities, or industrial operations environment (Associates degree is a plus).
• Instrumentation and/or electrical troubleshooting experience.
• Experience using Distributed Control Systems (DCS) or other automated process control systems.
• Ability to read and modify technical drawings, schematics, and P&IDs.
• Familiarity with chemical industry safety and environmental regulations.
• Relevant military technical experience may be considered in lieu of traditional industry experience.

Key Success Factors

• Demonstrates strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Remains calm, professional, and safety-focused in high-pressure situations.
• Communicates effectively and maintains accurate operational records.
• Exercises good judgment and knows when to act independently versus when to seek guidance.
• Is curious, eager to learn, and motivated to expand their technical knowledge and skill set.
• Thrives in a collaborative, hands-on environment and embraces continuous improvement.