Operator I

Grapevine Energy; Bakersfield (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Grapevine Energy in Bakersfield, CA is seeking an Operator to support plant operations of utilities and logistics. The role involves monitoring and operating various process units and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental practices.

Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience in refining or chemical plant operations and must be comfortable working in a high-paced environment. This position includes a rotating 12-hour shift and requires good communication and analytical skills.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required.
• Ability to qualify on multiple jobs including console positions.
• Proficient computer skills with Google G Suite and Microsoft Office.
• Good verbal and written communication skills are essential.
• 5 years minimum experience in refining or chemical plant operations is required.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and operate process and utility units.
• Safely collect samples to identify product quality issues.
• Communicate with other operators and maintenance to address issues.
• Participate in health, safety, and environmental programs.
• Perform housekeeping to maintain a clean work environment.

Skills

Process and utility operation

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

5 years minimum experience in refining or chemical plant operations

Associate or technology degree in process technology or science discipline

Tools

Honeywell DCS

Google G Suite

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Summary

The Operator will support current plant operations of utilities and logistics; support maintenance, construction, and commissioning activities for the conversion of the site to renewable fuels production; and post‑startup operations of the facility in a safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant manner in accordance with procedures and objectives. This is a rotating (days/night) 12‑hour shift position including weekends and holidays that requires reliable attendance.

Essential Functions

• Monitor and operate process and utility units, tank farms/logistics utilizing a wide range of control systems and equipment that includes pressure vessels, reactors, tanks, mixers, heat exchangers, pumps, compressors, boilers, and furnaces.
• Perform and document unit rounds in accordance with round sheets/calling cards.
• Employ standard operating procedures to adjust, maintain, start, and stop production equipment.
• Monitor and make needed adjustments to keep system processes, including flows, temperatures, and pressures, within operating limits and targets.
• Safely collect samples to identify product quality issues.
• Read unit gauges to determine the flow rate of product into and from tanks and the amount of product in tanks.
• Communicate with other Unit Operators, Maintenance, and Supervisor to make field adjustments in response to changing process conditions to address or prevent issues.
• Operate manual and automatic valves, meters, pumps, and transfer systems that move product between tanks and process units.
• Report safety deficiencies and take appropriate corrective or mitigating action.
• Participate in all health, safety, and environmental programs.
• Perform housekeeping to maintain a clean work environment and clean equipment such as filters, tanks, exchangers, and other equipment.
• Be available to work varied schedules and take on‑call duties.
• Comply with all Company safety and environmental practices.
• Perform other tasks as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities

• Must have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record, and be able to pass pre‑employment background screening and drug screen.
• Ability to qualify on multiple jobs including console (board) positions.
• Able to perform rounds on shift with minimal supervision.
• Proficient computer skills, specifically with Google G Suite and Microsoft Office.
• Be able to respond to emergency calls as needed.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to function well in a high‑pace and at times stressful environment.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.

Education And Experience

• Must be certified on 3 plant jobs at BKRF.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• 5 years minimum experience in refining or chemical plant operations required.
• Associate’s degree or higher and Honeywell DCS experience preferred.
• Honeywell DCS board operation preferred.
• Two (2) years of experience in mechanical maintenance positions preferred.
• Associate or technology degree in process technology or science discipline preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to pass a physical test of pushing, pulling, and lifting a minimum of 50 lbs.
• Ability to work in confined spaces and wear self‑contained breathing apparatus.
• Must be able to climb ladders and/or stairs on tanks, vessels, and structures; wear respirator; work around equipment containing high pressures and temperatures and various chemicals.
• Prolonged periods of standing and walking.
• Ability to perform repetitive movements over long periods of time.
• Requires frequent reaching, stooping, bending, kneeling, and crouching.
• Requires lifting, positioning, pushing, and/or transferring equipment and materials.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Grapevine Operating Company provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.