Operator

Westlake Management Services, Inc.; Lake Charles (LA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Westlake Chemical Corp. in Lake Charles, LA is seeking an experienced Process Operator to maintain safe, environmentally sound, and continuous operation of the assigned unit.

You will learn product quality parameters and positively influence them while following supervision instructions and performing shift relief. Responsibilities include routine rounds, data logging, coordinating with Maintenance for equipment upkeep, and supporting safety and environmental compliance.

Qualifications

• TWIC credential required and background screening.
• HS diploma or GED required.
• Associate Degree in Process Technology preferred.
• Three years experience as Process Operator or Maintenance Technician acceptable in lieu of degree.
• Military service in related field may be accepted.
• Background screening including motor vehicle record, drug testing, and pre-employment physicals.

Responsibilities

• Maintain continuous and safe operation of the assigned unit.
• Follow instructions and perform shift relief.
• Conduct rounds to inspect equipment and report faults.
• Log data, collect samples, and maintain records.
• Coordinate with Maintenance for equipment upkeep and safety.
• Train other operators and participate in SOPs and emergency plans.
• Comply with OSHA, DEQ, EPA, DOT and ISO requirements.
• May operate heavy machinery and participate in safety activities.

Skills

Process operation

Safety compliance

Documentation

Education

Associate Degree in Process Technology

Associate Degree in related technical discipline

High school diploma / GED

Three years of related experience

Bachelor’s degree (in other fields) may be accepted

Background check & pre-employment physical

Tools

TWIC card

Job description

SUMMARY

Responsible for maintaining safe, environmentally sound, and continuous operation of respective manufacturing areas. Must be able to learn product quality parameters and positively influence them.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform work required to maintain continuous and safe operation of the assigned unit.
• Follow both written and verbal instructions from supervision and make acceptable shift relief.
• Make routine rounds to inspect equipment for faulty operation and report to supervision.
• Keep accurate logs, collect and log reading data as required, and take samples as scheduled.
• Work with Maintenance Department for equipment maintenance and repairs, including equipment isolation, hydrocarbon purging, equipment lockout, and writing Safe Work Permits.
• Participate in training other operators.
• May be required to work special job assignments such as writing standard operating procedures, preparing emergency operating plans, working on turnaround preparation, and attending safety meetings and process hazard reviews.
• Comply with all local, state, and federal regulations including OSHA, DEQ, EPA, DOT, etc.
• Fulfill Quality Management System requirements as dictated by ISO procedures.
• May be required to become a member of the Rescue Team and Fire Brigade.
• May be required to operate heavy machinery such as a forklift and railcar moving equipment.
• Maintain good housekeeping and safety standards in the area of responsibility.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

• Perform the primary thinking encompassed by this job description.
• Comply with all Company policies and procedures.
• Support Company goals of continuous improvement and operational excellence, including active participation on project teams.
• Perform duties in a manner that protects personal safety as well as the safety of others.
• Promptly report Safety, Health or Environmental issues or incidents to supervision.
• Any additional responsibilities or tasks as assigned.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• A current, valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card is required.
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• Associate Degree in Process Technology or Associate Degree in a related technical discipline is preferred.
• In lieu of Process Technology degree, a minimum three (3) years of experience as a Process Operator or Maintenance Technician in a chemical plant or refinery, or applicable experience in related field may be accepted.
• Three (3) years military active duty experience in a related military occupational specialty may be accepted in lieu of Process Technology degree.
• Bachelor’s degree in other fields may be accepted in lieu of Process Technology degree.
• Successful candidates must satisfy background screening, including motor vehicle record screening, drug testing & pre-employment physical requirements before starting work.

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 with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, climb, or twist. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 60 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 60 pounds. The employee will be required to occasionally use both hands for fine and power grip, and precision and speed work. The employee will be intermittently required to drive a truck, bicycle, or forklift at any given time during the shift on a daily basis. Employee must be able to climb elevated structures up to 310 feet high. Employee must also be conformable with confined space entry. 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 high. Some of the work may be required in the operating units which can require usage of required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, etc. May also result in exposure to outside elements and may require usage of stairs and elevators. Inside exposure includes but not limited to A/C 40% of the time. Outside exposure includes but not limited to outside elements 60% of the time. May be exposed to slippery, rocky, or uneven surfaces. Job may require working in closed quarters. Exposure to dust, fumes, and gasses are at a minimum on the inside, and can be moderate outside.

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