Chief Technician

Nouryon; Columbus (MS); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Nouryon in Columbus, MS, is seeking a Chief Technician to oversee plant operations of the Sodium Chlorate process. You will ensure production is safe, efficient, and environmentally sound. Responsibilities include leading field operators, monitoring process conditions, and achieving performance targets.

The ideal candidate will have a High School Diploma/GED with technical education or substantial experience in the chemical industry. Strong problem-solving and communication skills are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED with 2 years post-secondary or military education in a technical field, or 3+ years experience in the chemical industry.
• Strong ability to read, analyze, interpret, and respond to technical data related to plant operations.
• Solid math skills for operational processes, including fractions, decimals, percentages, and unit conversions.

Responsibilities

• Champion safety and housekeeping standards across the site.
• Operate plant systems safely and efficiently to produce consistent, high-quality products.
• Lead and guide field operators, ensuring clear priorities and effective teamwork.

Skills

Reading and interpreting technical data

Mathematical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma/GED with technical education or 3+ years chemical industry experience

Tools

DCS systems

Job description

Overview

The Chief Technician is responsible for the plant operations of the Sodium Chlorate process, ensuring production is safe, environmentally sound, and efficient.

Responsibilities

• Champion safety, environmental, and housekeeping standards across the site.
• Operate plant systems safely and efficiently to produce consistent, high‑quality products.
• Lead and guide field operators, ensuring clear priorities and effective teamwork.
• Monitor process conditions, troubleshoot deviations, and drive root cause investigations.
• Support maintenance planning, including SAP notifications and outage preparation.
• Achieve and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Participate in safety programs, permit‑to‑work processes, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Train and mentor operators and new Chief Technicians.
• Communicate clearly across shifts, conduct effective handovers, and keep accurate shift records.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED with at least 2 years of post‑secondary or military education in a technical field, or 3+ years of experience in the chemical industry.
• Strong ability to read, analyze, interpret, and respond to technical data related to plant operations.
• Solid math skills, including working with fractions, decimals, percentages, metric system conversions, and applying them to operational processes.
• Proven problem‑solving skills for practical and operational challenges in a plant environment.
• Ability to interpret sample results and take prompt, appropriate action.
• Competence in operating computers and DCS systems with multiple screens and alarms.
• Clear and efficient communication skills, including radio communication.

Location & Employment

Full‑time position based in Columbus, MS. Reports directly to the Shift Supervisor.

EEO Statement

Nouryon is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.