Chemical Operator

Verdant Specialty Solutions; University Park (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Verdant Specialty Solutions in University Park, Illinois, seeks a Chemical Operator to handle materials, operate production equipment, and ensure product quality. This on-site role involves 12-hour rotating shifts and focuses on safety and efficiency in plant operations.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in chemical manufacturing, strong teamwork skills, and a commitment to maintaining cleanliness and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years of experience in a manufacturing or chemical production environment preferred.
• Experience working within a quality management system (ISO 9001 or similar) preferred.
• Basic mathematical skills for weights, volumes, and measurements are necessary.

Responsibilities

• Safely handle materials and operate production equipment.
• Ensure products are produced and packaged to quality and safety standards.
• Collaborate with supervisors and maintenance personnel to support operations.

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Forklift

Microsoft Office

Job description

Produce Safely. Support Operations. Deliver Quality.

Verdant Specialty Solutions is seeking a Chemical Operator to join our Production team in University Park, Illinois. This role is responsible for safely handling materials, operating production and packaging equipment, supporting manufacturing operations, and ensuring products are produced and packaged according to quality, safety, and operational standards.

This is an on-site position working 12-hour rotating shifts, with day and night schedules rotating monthly.

Why This Role Is a Fit for You:

• Be Part of the Production Process: Support the manufacturing and packaging of specialty chemical products while helping ensure safe and efficient plant operations.
• Hands-On Work Environment: Operate production equipment, forklifts, and material handling systems while working directly with products and materials.
• Safety & Quality Focus: Help maintain the highest standards of safety, environmental compliance, and product quality.
• Collaborative Team Culture: Work closely with production, maintenance, engineering, and leadership teams to achieve operational goals.
• Growth & Development: Join a company committed to operational excellence, continuous improvement, and employee development.

What You'll Do:

• Fill drums and totes and ensure products are labeled accurately.
• Print batch sheets, packaging records, and other production documentation using company systems.
• Enter production and packaging information accurately into company software.
• Transport raw materials and finished products using forklifts and other material handling equipment.
• Transfer materials safely through pipelines and hoses.
• Operate flaking equipment and other production equipment according to established procedures.
• Collect product samples as trained.
• Clean production equipment and perform basic maintenance activities.
• Maintain housekeeping and Lean Manufacturing standards throughout the facility.
• Track and support performance goals related to safety, quality, and productivity.
• Identify equipment issues and initiate maintenance work requests as needed.
• Follow all standard operating procedures, safety requirements, and company policies.
• Collaborate with supervisors, operators, engineers, and maintenance personnel to support plant operations and continuous improvement initiatives.

What Sets You Apart:

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to follow procedures, safety requirements, and work instructions.
• Basic mathematical skills for weights, volumes, and measurements.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to identify and elevate quality, safety, or operational concerns.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and efficient work environment.

What You Bring:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a manufacturing, laboratory, or chemical production environment preferred.
• Chemical manufacturing or industrial laboratory experience strongly preferred.
• Experience working within a quality management system (ISO 9001 or similar) preferred.
• Forklift experience preferred.
• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications.

About Verdant

Verdant Specialty Solutions is a global specialty chemicals manufacturer combining innovation, agility, and operational excellence. With operations across the United States and Europe, we bring functional chemistry to life—safely, reliably, and responsibly.