Business Title Process Technician

Westlake Chemical; Lakeland (FL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Westlake Chemical is seeking a Process Technician to safely operate process equipment across reactors, tanks, and utility systems in our 24/7 facility. You will log parameters, support maintenance requests, and ensure accurate batch documentation under supervision.

Responsibilities include operating forklifts, adhering to EHS standards, and contributing to continual improvement projects while working rotating shifts, nights, weekends and holidays as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; ability to read, write and comprehend English; basic computer skills.
• Two years in a general industrial manufacturing environment preferred; HAZMAT handling and forklift experience advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate process equipment under supervision across reactors, tanks, boilers, and utility systems.
• Document parameters and maintain batch records; monitor and log operating conditions.
• Operate forklifts and yard equipment to move materials within the plant.
• Follow EHS requirements, perform safety checks, and support housekeeping and 5S initiatives.
• Assist in maintenance requests and participate in continual improvement projects.

Skills

Process operation

Forklift operation

DCS

Safety compliance

Quality control

Troubleshooting

Teamwork

Data entry

Mathematics

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Distributive Control System (DCS)

Job description

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples' lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

Position Overview

The Process Technician responsibilities include the safe operation of all process equipment under the direction and guidance of a plant operator. This includes operating reactors, storage tanks, boilers, oil heaters, cooling water systems, wastewater treatment, and all other associated utility systems. The Process Technician is also required to operate a forklift and yard tractor to move materials within the plant. The Process Technician position supports a 24/7/365 production facility and must be able and willing to work rotating shift, nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime.

EHS

Follows all EHS requirements and regulations; demonstrates strong commitment to prevent illness, injury and pollution thru active participation. Participate in plant safety, environmental, and production programs. Recognizes and resolves hazards in immediate work areas, reports potential hazards, and takes reasonable actions to control hazards. Writes Safe Work Permits and other permits as assigned. Completes all classroom and computer-based training on time per company standards. Maintains a clean, orderly work environment and contributes to housekeeping and 5s improvements at the facility.

Quality

Learns quickly; is detail oriented; follows all operating procedures and batch procedures. Reads directions thoroughly and asks to clarify understanding. Ensures all material is recorded and accounted for in the proper locations. Maintains a high standard of quality for our products and materials in respect of the customer.

Production

Demonstrates strong process awareness; operates process control equipment, pumps, motors, reactors, etc. Operate all process equipment including reactors, tanks, oil heaters, boilers, etc. under the direction and guidance of a plant operator. Document parameters as required; monitors, observes, and logs operating conditions. Creates maintenance equipment repair requests; troubleshoots basic operational problems and takes corrective action. Ensures all materials are tracked and logged in batch documentation to maintain proper plant inventories. Operates equipment using the Distributive Control System (DCS)

Continual Improvement

Fully support Company goals of continuous improvement and operational excellence at strategic and tactical levels. Review area of responsibility for improvement opportunities to initiate projects or communicate ideas to management as well as active participation on projects teams. Must be willing and capable to assist in the training of others. On the job training is a large portion of the job on shift and each operator must be willing to help in the continual improvement of others.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach, push, pull or climb with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 55 pounds repeatedly. Associate must also have ability to wear a respirator. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Work will be required in the operating unit which requires usage of required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, FRC, hard hat, safety shoes, etc. Significant portion of the job is outside and will result in exposure to outside elements.

Minimum Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent is required. Must be able to use a computer to send/read email, complete computer-based training, and operate the DCS. Must be able to speak, read, write, and comprehend the English language fluently. Must follow instructions and be self‑motivated. Must be able to perform mathematical operations accurately. Must possess hand-eye motor coordination. Must be willing and able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as necessary. Must be willing and able to work overtime. Must work well with others and function well within a team environment.

Preferred Minimum Qualifications

2 years min. experience in general industrial manufacturing environment. HAZMAT handling, excellent troubleshooting skills and mechanical aptitude are required. Forklift experience

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.

Westlake is a global manufacturer and supplier of materials and innovative products that enhance life every day. Headquartered in Houston, with operations in Asia, Europe and North America, we provide the building blocks for vital solutions — from housing and construction, to packaging and healthcare, to automotive and consumer. For more information, visit the company's web site at www.westlake.com. Westlake (NYSE: WLK) is a global diversified industrial company that manufactures and supplies essential products that enhance the daily lives of people around the globe. Our products, now under a One Westlake brand, supply the necessary building blocks for everyday products across housing and infrastructure, packaging and healthcare, and automotive and consumer goods. Consumers gain the benefits of materials Westlake produces in products such as food packaging, medical devices, soaps and detergents, car interiors, fashion, toys, shoes, furniture, electronics, siding, stone veneer, windows, outdoor living, roofing, and pipe & fittings. Westlake is proud to contribute to driving a sustainable future through the creation of essential products that are Enhancing Your Life Every Day®. To view other career opportunities at Westlake and our family of companies, visit https://westlaketalent.com