Production Engineer (PE&O)

Westlake Chemical; Lake Charles (LA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Westlake Chemical is seeking an engineer to assist with analyses and troubleshooting of process operations and to collect technical information to maintain quality and efficient operation in Lake Charles, LA.

Responsibilities include monitoring day-to-day unit operation, performing process troubleshooting, coordinating with engineering and production teams, and supporting plant projects while upholding safety and company policies.

Qualifications

• Background in chemical engineering with strong troubleshooting and process optimization skills.
• Experience coordinating with engineering, operations, and project teams.
• Familiarity with process safety, P&IDs, and GOIs is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Monitor day-to-day operation of the unit to minimize costs and maximize production.
• Perform engineering troubleshooting of process problems, mechanical failures, and customer complaints.
• Coordinate with Engineering, Customer Technical Service, and sales in product development projects.
• Carry out directions of Unit Manager or Production Superintendent to ensure policies and procedures are followed.
• Initiate studies to improve operating efficiency, profitability, quality, safety, and to solve operation problems.
• Work with Project Departments in implementing improvements and changes.
• Keep Production updated on new technology and process techniques.
• Assist in developing and updating P&IDs, JSEAs and GOIs and Emergency Procedures.
• Work on assigned projects and provide general plant support.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Process engineering

Project coordination

Computer programming

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

5 years of chemical plant experience

Job description

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.

SUMMARY

Assist with the analyses and troubleshooting of Process operations and the collection of technical information. Take corrective action needed to maintain consistent quality and efficient operation.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

May include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Monitor day-to-day operation of entire unit in order to minimize costs and maximize production.
• Perform engineering troubleshooting of process problems, mechanical failures, and customer complaints.
• Coordinate with the Engineering Department, Customer Technical Service, customer complaints and sales in product development projects.
• Carry out directions of Unit Manager or Production Superintendent to ensure Company policies and procedures are followed.
• Initiate Job Notes and studies to improve operating efficiency, profitability, quality, safety, and to solve operation problems.
• Work with the Project Departments in the implementation of improvements and changes.
• Keep the Production Department updated on new technology and process techniques.
• Work with the Unit Manager and Production Supervisors when needed for process problems, environmental, safety or employee problems.
• Monitor the operating budget monthly and investigate the root causes in controlling expenses.
• Assist in developing and updating P&ID’s, JSEA’s and GOI’s and Emergency Procedures.
• Work on assigned projects.
• Help provide general plant support.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

Perform the primary thinking encompassed by this job description. Comply with all Company policies and procedures. Fully supports Company goals of continuous improvement and operational excellence at strategic and tactical levels including reviewing area of responsibility for improvement opportunities to initiate projects or communicate ideas to management as well as active participation on project teams. Any additional responsibilities or tasks as assigned. 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 management.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

Successful candidates must satisfy background screening, including motor vehicle record screening, drug testing & pre-employment physical requirements before starting work. A current, valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card is required. BS in Engineering, preferably in Chemical Engineering and 5 years of full time work in a chemical plant. Prefer to have Ethylene plant progressive technical experience, including process engineering, product development, and plant operations practices. Computer programming and application skills.

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, bend, kneel, or crouch. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 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 usually moderate as normally based in an office. 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. Travel including air travel or auto travel may occasionally be required.

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