Operator

Westlake Chemical Corp.; Plaquemine (LA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Westlake Chemical Corporation in Plaquemine, LA is seeking a Unit Operator to assist in the operations of the plant, following sound environmental, health and safety procedures.

Responsibilities include writing permits and work orders, preparing equipment for mechanical repairs, and ensuring product meets specifications. Must have a HS diploma (AAS preferred) and be willing to work 12-hour rotating shifts with appropriate PPE; background checks and drug testing will be conducted.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; AAS in Process Technology preferred.
• Entry level; some operator experience in chemical plants desired (chlorine, PVC, VCM).
• Effective communication skills.
• Excellent mechanical skills.
• Willingness to work 12-hour rotating shifts.
• Background screening and pre-employment physical/drug testing required.

Responsibilities

• Operate the unit safely according to procedures and EH&S requirements.
• Write permits and work orders per procedures.
• Report injuries and hazards promptly to supervision.
• Prepare equipment for mechanical repairs and prevent exposure to hazards.
• Ensure product conforms to manufacturing specifications.
• Follow PPE guidelines, LOTO and confined space entry rules.
• Participate in unit safety training and monthly safety modules.

Skills

Effective communication

Mechanical skills

Safety culture awareness

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

AAS in Process Technology preferred

Job description

SUMMARY

Assist in the operations of the unit using sound and safe environmental procedures.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrates strong safety culture through personal behavior and commitment to environmental, health & safety
• Participates in the PACE culture of safety
• Writes permits and work orders in accordance with company environmental, health and safety and operational procedures
• Reports injuries, incidents and hazards to unit supervision as soon as reasonably possible.
• Conducts tasks and operational duties with appropriate PPE as assigned
• Reviews JHA for appropriate PPE needed for routine and non-routine duties
• Actively participates in unit safety training and monthly safety modules
• Ensures LOTO and Confined Space Entry operations are permitted per procedures and are only permitted by persons trained and qualified to issue work permits
• Assist in the operations of the unit using sound and safe environmental procedures
• Prepare equipment for mechanical repairs according to safe work practices to insure cost effective repairs and prevent exposure of mechanics to hazards
• Ensure product conforms to manufacturing specifications and take appropriate actions for conditions outside those specifications
• Other duties as assigned and within appropriate training

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Process Technology along with industrial work or applicable military experience is preferred
• Entry level, however, some experience as an operator in a chemical plant is desired, preferably experience in Chlorine, PVC or VCM plants
• Must be able to communicate effectively
• Must have excellent mechanical skills
• Position also requires 12 hour rotating shift work
• Positions require a very high level of physical activity including, but not limited to, bending, squatting, kneeling, walking, standing, hand/wrist activities, push/pull activities, climbing and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• 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 constantly required to stand and walk, frequent hand/wrist activities and climbing; occasional bending, reaching, overhead and push/pull activities. Must be able to use hands to touch, handle, or feel. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. 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 high. Some of the work may be required in the operating units which requires usage of required PPE including safety glasses, hearing protection, etc. May also result in exposure to outside elements and may require usage of stairs.

Westlake offers you the potential to enrich your work life and career experience in an entrepreneurial environment. We work together to enhance peoples lives through our products and presence in the communities in which we operate.

Westlake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristics protected by applicable legislation.