Journeyman Chemical Process Operator – PVP (Du Pont Rotating Shift Schedule)

POSITION SUMMARY

The position is accountable for ensuring safe and environmentally sound operation of the production unit (including reactors and spray dryers) while maximizing the output of PVP Powder and Liquid Copolymers that meet or exceed the expectations of our customers.

Are you the kind of person that is always thinking, sketching, seeking, and adjusting? Who needs to understand how things work and then figure out how they can work better? Are you a passionate, tenacious, solver who loves to work with others who share your drive? Are you positive, constructive, and ingenious?

Are you always solving?

Then we’d like to meet you and bet you’d like to meet us.

Ashland, Inc. has an exciting opportunity for a Journeyman Chemical Process Operator to join our ISP Technologies, Inc. business at our Texas City, Texas manufacturing facility. This is a very visible, significant role within the Company and the Production function. This position reports to the Batch Operations Manager. 

The responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Works with the Operations Manager, Process Operators, and other plant support individuals to manufacture products for our customers and accomplish the goals and objectives of the Production department. 
• Monitors all operating equipment in PVP batch production unit to ensure that the process stays in control.
• Operates local and remote instrumentation to make necessary adjustments to ensure that products are manufactured that meet or exceed customer specifications.
• Supports and provides input on technical programs and procedures designed to optimize unit production and improve the manufacturing process. 
• Performs operational tasks to start up, shut down and make changes in the process.
• Records accurate readings, updates logs, and documents batch records, all to cGMP standards.
• Makes minor adjustments and repairs to process equipment.
• Draws samples to be taken to the laboratory for analysis.
• Complies with all plant safety rules, immediately reports all incidents and events to direct supervision for corrective action.
• Attends all departmental safety meetings and actively supports and participates in safety programs and implementations.
• Complies with all Ashland plant policies, procedures, and practices applicable to the Production Department.
• Participates in various Company and regulatory training designed to improve plant processes and/or increase unit production.
• Participates in Safety and Environmental initiatives that will contribute to compliance of State/Federal regulations and improve existing Company programs. 

In order to be qualified for this role, you must possess the following:

• Minimum four (4) years of experience as a Chemical Process Operator in a manufacturing facility, with batch reactor/spray dryer experience.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Prior experience must include being knowledgeable in chemical process manufacturing, plant safety rules and regulations, Process Safety Management (PSM), current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), environmental compliance standards, site quality processes, and emergency response requirements. 
• Valid Driver’s License.
• High level of mechanical aptitude, be an effective communicator, demonstrate basic computer competencies, and be capable of and willing to working rotating shift, holidays, and overtime, as may be required. 
• Ability to work in confined spaces and in elevated areas within the plant, walk and climb six flights of stairs as well as prolonged standing while running batches.
• Capability of bending and stooping while checking pumps, valves, motors, etc.
• Physical adeptness to move pallets of drums with hand truck.
• Physically ability to fill, maneuver, then seal drums of co-polymer weighing up to 450 lbs. each.
• Capability to safely operate, climb on and off a forklift.
• Able to maneuver and roll PVP powder drums up to 110 lb. 
• Physical capability of stooping, bending, reaching, and climbing in order to assemble or disassemble PVP spray dryers.
• Physically able to climb onto tank car loading racks and tank cars to maneuver fill hoses while loading.
• Ability to climb storage tanks to investigate difficulties or prepare equipment for maintenance.
• Individual must be able to respond appropriately during site emergencies as directed by the Site Emergency Director. The candidate must also be able to wear and properly utilize appropriate personal protective equipment if required to work or visit within the manufacturing process area. This may include hard hat, safety glasses, respirators, ear plugs, steel-toed shoes, gloves, or other equipment as required by the work performed and location the work is being done.
• Able to 1) identify operational critical issues and formulate action plans with all levels of plant management.
• Capable of identifying quality improvement opportunities, then formulating action plans for implementation. This requires exceptional work planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Always demonstrate responsible and ethical behavior.
• Possess the ability to help the Company drive greater value through understanding the business, making complex decisions, and creating the new and different.

Perks of working at Ashland:

• Team recognition rewards, and monetary incentives based on Company performance.
• Comprehensive Benefit package, Medical, Dental and Vision for you AND your family.
• 401(k) plan with Company match.
• Starting pay of $43.29 per hour working a 12-hour rotating shift.

Must be authorized to work in the US.