Process Operator

MOVA Metals; Freeport (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

MOVA Metals in Freeport, Texas, is seeking a Production Operator to safely operate equipment used in catalyst recycling. You will monitor processes, perform inspections, collect samples, and support startup, shutdown, and changeover activities in a 24-hour manufacturing setting.

You must have a high school diploma or GED and at least one year in industrial manufacturing; experience in a 24/7 shift is preferred.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of one year in industrial manufacturing or related field preferred.
• Experience in a 24/7 shift environment is preferred.
• Ability to follow written operating procedures and work instructions.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.

Responsibilities

• Safely operate equipment used in catalyst recycling operations.
• Monitor process conditions and adjust parameters as needed.
• Perform routine inspections to identify abnormalities or potential failures.
• Record process data, conditions, production rates and quality information.
• Collect samples and perform basic quality checks.
• Load and unload raw materials and finished products per procedures.
• Assist maintenance during outages and repairs.
• Report malfunctions, unsafe conditions, spills, or environmental concerns.
• Follow LOTO, confined space, hot work, and other safety practices.
• Participate in safety meetings and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Work with maintenance, lab, environmental and management teams.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Troubleshooting

Computer skills

Reading gauges and meters

Problem solving

Communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

The Production Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant operation of process equipment used in the recycling and recovery of valuable metals from spent catalysts. This position monitors, operates, and troubleshoots equipment throughout the production process while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.

Production Operators work in a 24-hour manufacturing environment and are expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to teamwork, continuous improvement, and adherence to company policies and operating procedures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Safely operate production equipment used in catalyst recycling operations, including material handling systems, reactors, furnaces, filtration systems, pumps, dryers, and supporting process equipment.
• Monitor process conditions and make operational adjustments within established operating parameters.
• Perform routine inspections of equipment to identify abnormalities or potential equipment failures.
• Record process data, operating conditions, production rates, and quality information accurately and completely.
• Collect process samples and perform basic quality checks as required.
• Load and unload raw materials, intermediates, and finished products using approved procedures.
• Operate mobile equipment after receiving proper training and certification.
• Perform housekeeping activities to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Participate in startup, shutdown, cleaning, and changeover activities.
• Assist maintenance personnel during planned outages and equipment repairs.
• Report equipment malfunctions, unsafe conditions, spills, or environmental concerns immediately.
• Follow all Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), confined space, hot work, line breaking, and other safe work practices.
• Wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) and comply with all safety policies.
• Participate in safety meetings, toolbox talks, emergency response drills, and required training.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives designed to improve safety, quality, productivity, and cost efficiency.
• Work collaboratively with maintenance, laboratory, environmental, and management personnel.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Minimum of one (1) year of industrial manufacturing, chemical processing, refinery, mining, metals processing, or related experience preferred.
• Experience working in a 24/7 shift environment is preferred.
• Ability to understand and follow written operating procedures and work instructions.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Basic computer skills for data entry and production documentation.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining effective communication with team members.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong commitment to workplace safety.
• Ability to identify hazards and respond appropriately.
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to read gauges, meters, flow indicators, and process instrumentation.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent attendance and reliability.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors and coworkers.
• Ability to prioritize work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrates accountability, professionalism, and a positive attitude.

Physical Requirements

• Work 12-hour rotating shifts, including days, nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.
• Must be available for emergency call-ins and operational coverage when necessary.
• Climb ladders and stairs.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Push, pull, bend, kneel, squat, and reach.
• Wear required PPE, including respirators when necessary.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Work in hot, dusty, noisy, and industrial environments.
• Distinguish colors for process indicators and safety markings.
• Maintain the physical ability to respond during emergency situations.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.