Operator II

Lummus Technology; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Lummus Technology is hiring a Pilot Plant Operator / Research Plant Technician in Houston, TX. The role focuses on safe operation, monitoring, and support of pilot plant and research units, ensuring HSE compliance and accurate data documentation.

Responsibilities include sampling, equipment maintenance, and assisting with modifications and process improvements, while collaborating with engineers, operators, and lab staff to support research and operations objectives.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical certification, process technology degree or related industrial training preferred.
• Experience in pilot plant, chemical manufacturing, refinery, petrochemical or industrial operations preferred.
• Familiarity with process equipment, instrumentation and control systems desirable.
• Experience in Process Safety Management (PSM) environments preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor pilot plant and research units according to procedures.
• Take routine samples and deliver to laboratory for analysis.
• Monitor equipment performance and operating conditions for safe, efficient operation.
• Record operating data and observations in logbooks and electronic systems.
• Learn and operate DeltaV DCS and other control systems.
• Assist with construction, modification, and commissioning of pilot plant equipment and systems.
• Support maintenance and troubleshooting of small-scale process equipment.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Communication

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Technical certification or process technology training

Tools

DeltaV DCS

Job description

At Lummus Technology, innovation thrives, and excellence is a shared pursuit. When you join Lummus, you are empowered to make an impact and be part of a dynamic team that celebrates creativity, encourages professional development, and fosters collaboration.

From our technology portfolio to our global workforce, Lummus is growing at a rapid pace, and we hope that you will grow with us during this exciting time.

The Pilot Plant Operator / Research Plant Technician is responsible for the safe operation, monitoring, maintenance, and support of pilot plant and research operating units. This role ensures compliance with Lummus Technology Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) standards while assisting with process operations, equipment maintenance, sampling, unit modifications, and material handling activities. The position requires strong safety awareness, mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE)

• Maintain compliance with all Lummus Technology HSE policies, procedures, and standards.
• Conduct routine HSE inspections, monitoring, documentation, recordkeeping, and reporting activities.
• Adhere to all federal, state, local, and company safety regulations and requirements.
• Demonstrate proficiency in and compliance with Process Safety Management (PSM) practices, including:
• Management of Change (MOC)
• Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR)
• Utilize required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safe work practices at all times.
• Identify unsafe conditions, abnormal operating conditions, or process deviations and immediately communicate concerns to the Development Engineer, Supervisor, or Lead Operator.

Plant Operations

• Operate and monitor pilot plant and research operating units in accordance with established procedures.
• Take routine samples from operating units and deliver samples to the laboratory for analysis.
• Monitor equipment performance and operating conditions to ensure safe and efficient operation.
• Record operating data, observations, and abnormal conditions in logbooks and electronic systems.
• Learn and operate Distributed Control Systems (DCS), including DeltaV.

Equipment Maintenance & Construction Support

• Assist with construction, modification, and commissioning of pilot plant equipment and systems.
• Install stainless steel and copper tubing utilizing dual ferrule compression fittings.
• Perform leak testing and insulation of pressure equipment and process systems.
• Support maintenance and troubleshooting of small-scale process equipment, including:
• Positive displacement pumps
• Mass flow controllers
• Associated instrumentation and process equipment

Material Handling & Logistics

• Mix and prepare feedstocks, including hydrocarbons such as C4s and C12s.
• Safely handle drums, cylinders, and other process materials.
• Load and unload trucks associated with LPG and petroleum distillate shipments.
• Operate forklifts, personnel lifts, and other authorized plant equipment.

Monitoring & Documentation

• Collect readings from:
• Hydrocarbon storage tanks
• Sewer station
• Catalytic distillation unit
• Hydrogen station
• Nitrogen station
• Other assigned operating units
• Ensure all measurements and operating information are accurately documented.
• Maintain detailed operational records and support reporting requirements.

Shift Communication

• Provide comprehensive verbal and written shift turnover reports.
• Communicate unit status, operational issues, maintenance activities, safety concerns, and process performance to incoming and outgoing crews.
• Collaborate effectively with engineers, operators, maintenance personnel, and laboratory staff to support research and operational objectives.

Qualifications

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Technical certification, process technology degree, or related industrial training preferred.

Experience

• Experience in pilot plant, chemical manufacturing, refinery, petrochemical, or industrial operations preferred.
• Familiarity with process equipment, instrumentation, and control systems is desirable.
• Experience with Process Safety Management (PSM) environments preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Understanding of industrial safety practices and HSE requirements.
• Ability to identify, evaluate, and communicate process or equipment issues.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to read and follow operating procedures and work instructions.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Proficiency with electronic data entry and operational recordkeeping systems.

Lummus Technology is the global leader in developing technology solutions that make modern life possible and focus on a more sustainable, low carbon future. We license process technologies in clean fuels, renewables, petrochemicals, polymers, gas processing and supply lifecycle services, catalysts, proprietary equipment and digitalization to customers worldwide.