Chemical Operator IV

Buckman; Cadet (MO); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Buckman, located in Cadet, MO, is looking for a Chemical Operator IV to ensure safe and efficient production of chemical products. Key responsibilities include operating and monitoring plant processes, conducting quality checks, and ensuring adherence to safety standards.

The ideal candidate will bring 4-6 years of experience, a High School Diploma, and a strong understanding of process controls. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within a growing company.

Qualifications

• 4-6 years of relevant job experience.
• Ability to operate various plant equipment and follow detailed instructions.
• Knowledge of OSHA, EPA, and other regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor reactors and pumps to meet production targets.
• Conduct in-process quality checks and collaborate with Quality Control.
• Assist in safety audits and participate in continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

Process controls

Troubleshooting techniques

Quality assurance

Effective communication

Leadership abilities

Continuous improvement mindset

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Tools

GC (Gas Chromatography)

Job description

Chemical Operator IV

Buckman – Cadet, MO

Location: Cadet, MO

Language: English

Travel: None

Buckman is a privately held, global specialty chemical company with headquarters in Memphis, TN, USA, committed to safeguarding the environment, maintaining safety in the workplace, and promoting sustainable development. Buckman delivers exceptional service and innovative solutions to our customers globally in the pulp and paper, leather, and water treatment sectors to help boost productivity, reduce risk, improve product quality, and provide a measurable return on investment.

Position Summary

As a Level 4 Chemical Operator, you will ensure the safe, efficient, and high‑quality production of chemical products by operating, monitoring, and optimizing plant processes. Your role is critical in maintaining production goals, adhering to safety and compliance standards, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

Key Outcomes/Responsibilities

Safe and Compliant Operations

• Enforce safety protocols, including PPE use, chemical handling, and emergency response procedures
• Ensure all activities are conducted with the highest regard for safety and regulatory compliance
• Comply with OSHA, EPA, and internal safety standards by following SOPs/EOPs/MOPs and reporting hazards when they become present
• Keep documentation regarding process controls recorded accurately and on time
• Participate in safety audits, drills, and meetings to promote a safety culture
• Assist in identifying and mitigating risks through regular safety inspections
• Serve as a gatekeeper for the SWP (Safe Work Permit) system and notify management when issues arise that deem work unsuitable to commence
• Understand hazards and mitigation techniques used in PSM/HHC facilities
• Be prepared to respond to events that involve HHC

Efficient Process Execution

• Operate and monitor reactors, pumps, mixers, and filtration systems to meet production targets
• Identify and troubleshoot process deviations or mechanical issues promptly to minimize downtime and communicate quickly and effectively for resolution
• Maintain accurate process logs and production data for traceability and performance tracking
• Collaborate with maintenance and engineering to ensure equipment reliability
• Execute batch processes following specifications and timeline

Quality Assurance and Product Integrity

• Conduct in-process quality checks and adjust parameters to maintain specifications
• Collaborate with the Quality Control team to resolve deviations and ensure compliance
• Escalate quality concerns promptly to prevent rework or waste
• Perform all laboratory final QC for outbound finished goods
• Document quality incidents and contribute to corrective actions
• Promote a "right-first-time" mindset in all production activities and report RT when generated

Continuous Improvement and Problem‑Solving

• Contribute to plant performance by identifying and implementing process and efficiency improvements
• Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) and implement corrective actions for recurring issues
• Propose process enhancements based on observations and data trends to increase yield or reduce waste
• Support lean manufacturing and 5S initiatives to improve work area organization and efficiency
• Share ideas for innovation and process automation to reduce manual errors
• Track and report improvement outcomes to demonstrate value added

Skilled, collaborative team with strong performance and effective leadership

• Share knowledge and provide leadership to support team performance and growth
• Mentor and train new operators, reinforcing procedures and safety practices
• Lead by example, demonstrating professionalism, accountability, and teamwork
• Assist with onboarding to ensure smooth integration of new team members
• Encourage peer learning and skill development across shifts
• Support leadership with crew coordination and shift coverage as needed

Basic Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent
• Job Experience: 4-6 years
• Strong understanding of process controls, troubleshooting techniques, and quality assurance
• Ability to operate various plant equipment and follow detailed technical instructions
• Knowledge of regulatory compliance standards (OSHA, EPA, DHS, PSM, FRA, etc.)
• Strong attention to detail, problem‑solving skills, and a continuous improvement mindset
• Effective communication and leadership abilities
• Clear understanding of distillation principles for running concentrators/fractionation units and distillation columns with the ability to make in‑flight adjustments to provide proper QC end results
• Ability to operate laboratory equipment such as GC (Gas Chromatography for organic composition detection)

Competency

• Manages Ambiguity – Operating effectively, even when situations are uncertain or the way forward is unclear
• Communicates Effectively – Developing and delivering multi‑mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences
• Courage – Stepping up to address difficult issues, saying what needs to be said
• Collaborates – Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives
• Persuades – Using compelling arguments to gain support and commitment from others