CHEMICAL OPERATOR JOBGASTON, SC

Alpek Polyester USA; Gaston (SC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Alpek Polyester USA, LLC in Gaston, SC is seeking a Chemical Operator to operate and optimize complex production equipment on the Columbia Site Operations Team. The role emphasizes safety, process control via DCS, and teamwork to maintain efficiency.

The ideal candidate has an associate degree, 2+ years of chemical operation experience, and strong analytical and troubleshooting skills. You will handle start-ups, shutdowns, sampling, and compliance with MACT/Title V and food safety regulations.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or higher in a technical field preferred.
• 2+ years of chemical operator experience in manufacturing.
• Fluids dynamics, thermodynamics, and control systems knowledge.
• Excellent safety record and readiness for Emergency Response Team.

Responsibilities

• Monitor the process via DCS and adjust conditions; log changes and produce reports.
• Perform work outside the control room in production areas and handle waste streams.
• Collect samples for analysis and decide if re-sampling or adjustments are needed.
• Read gauges and meters, compare to requirements, and take corrective action.
• Start up and shut down equipment using written procedures.
• Assist Maintenance, E&I, and Construction teams during shutdowns.
• Operate production equipment such as filters, dryers, oxidizers, distillation, pumps, and heat exchangers.
• Comply with MACT/Title V, food safety regs, and other environmental requirements.
• Serve on Emergency Response Team.

Skills

Troubleshooting skills

Team player

Computer proficiency

Safety mindset

Education

Associate’s degree in a related technical field

Job description

Why You'll Love This Job

We are seeking a motivated individual to join our Columbia Site Operations Team based in Gaston, SC. The ideal candidate for the Chemical Operator will possess strong technical skills, a commitment to safety, and the ability to operate complex production equipment while maintaining process efficiency. They should be proactive, have excellent troubleshooting abilities, and work well within a team environment to support all aspects of production.

Responsibilities

The Chemical Operator will be reportable to the Shift Supervisor and have responsibilities for the following tasks:

• Monitor the process through a Distributed Control System (DCS) and adjust process conditions as necessary; log changes, monitor sample results, write work notifications, and send out production reports.
• Perform work outside the control room in the production areas related to production services, product sampling, packaging, and materials handling, including proper handling of waste streams, including hazardous waste.
• Collect and submit appropriate samples for analysis, using analytical and/or process trends to determine whether re-sampling or process adjustments are needed.
• Monitor operating parameters by reading gauges, instruments, and meters; compare readings to known requirements, log information, and take action as necessary.
• Respond and react to any alarms within the operating area.
• Utilize job knowledge, equipment specification sheets, and operating procedures to monitor and adjust the process via DCS or manually
• Start up and shut down process equipment as needed using written procedures.
• Assist Maintenance, E&I, and Construction teams, including during shutdowns.
• Know the location of valves, pumps, piping, and all critical equipment.
• Operate and monitor production equipment such as filter and dryer systems, oxidizers, distillation equipment, pumps, and heat exchangers, cutter systems, tank farm levels, utilities, etc
• Make adjustments, open/close valves, bypasses, switch strainers, clean immersion vessels, and perform other tasks as requested.
• Perform startups, shutdowns, and process transitions using proper written procedures and checklists.
• Troubleshoot problems with flows, levels, equipment, and other process issues using job knowledge, equipment specification sheets, and operating procedures.
• Patrol the operating area at designated times routinely to ensure safe operation; make comments on patrol sheets and follow up on concerns with the Team Manager.
• Comply with all regulations as applied to the specific job area, including but not limited to MACT/Title V Environmental documentation, food safety regulations, etc.
• Serve on the plant ERT (Emergency Response Team)
• All other duties as assigned

Skills & Qualifications

The requirements that an individual must possess to perform the essential elements of the job:

Job Skills/Educational Requirements

• Associate’s degree in a related technical field or a higher-level qualification (preferred)
• 2+ years of experience as a chemical operator or handler in a manufacturing environment
• In-depth understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, pressure systems, and computerized control systems
• Excellent safety record and ability to meet the qualifications to be on Emergency Response Team

Competencies

• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills and a strong commitment to safety practices
• Proficiency with computers and software applications
• Demonstrates a high level of professionalism, including reliability, discretion, and the ability to represent the company positively in all interactions
• Self-motivated, with a positive attitude and ability to work effectively in a team environment

Physical Requirements

• Must be clean shaven to ensure proper fit and seal of respirator equipment
• Must not be afraid of heights and working in elevated locations on pipe bridges
• Ability to sit, stand, and move for extended periods.
• Must be able to climb, stoop, kneel, crouch and crawl
• Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts.
• Must be able to work scheduled and unscheduled shifts, including short-notice hours on off days, as needed to meet business requirements.
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced, physically active environment.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in a chemical plant and industrial setting with typical manufacturing conditions.
• Work may involve exposure to loud machinery, temperature variations, and other industrial hazards.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required, including hard hat, hearing protection, eye protection, and steel-toe boots (at minimum).

Alpek Polyester USA, LLC is a global leader in the production of PTA (Terephthalic Acid), PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) Resins, PET Recycling (rPET), and Specialty Polymers. This integrated business services customers all over the world using its global network of manufacturing entities within the Alpek Polyester umbrella. We are committed to improving people’s lives through our products, innovations, and a commitment to sustainability and protecting the environment.

Alpek Polyester USA, LLC is headquartered in Charlotte, NC with manufacturing facilities in the Carolinas, Mississippi, Indiana, and Pennsylvania.

Alpek Polyester USA, LLC is a division of Alpek, the petrochemicals and synthetic fibers business group of Alfa, S.A.B. de C.V., one of Mexico's largest corporations.

Alpek Polyester USA, LLC is subject to US Department of Commerce export regulations and thus must hire individuals who meet national security requirements. Interested applicants (or temporary employees) must meet eligibility requirements.

Alpek Polyester USA, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Number: 154165