SDC Operator

Rheinmetall Expal USA Inc.; Hooks (TX); On-site; USD 26,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Expal USA in Hooks, Texas, seeks a Safety-conscious SDC/OGT Operator to oversee the Static Detonation Chamber and Off-Gas Treatment systems for the safe destruction of munitions and hazardous materials.

Willingness to work a 2-2-3 schedule (12 hours, day or night shifts) and to pass training and certifications is required. This role emphasizes safety, environmental compliance, and reliable plant operation.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Familiarity with combustion systems, air pollution control, or gas scrubbing equipment.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor the Static Detonation Chamber (SDC) to safely thermally treat hazardous or energetic materials.
• Manage the Off-Gas Treatment (OGT) system to ensure emissions control and compliance with environmental regulations.
• Perform routine inspections, system startups, and shutdowns following SOPs.
• Monitor process parameters via control systems (SCADA/DCS/HMI).
• Conduct system diagnostics and basic troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and control issues.

Skills

Combustion systems

HMI/DCs experience

Technical reading

P&IDs reading

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

SCADA

HMI

Job description

Expal USAhas renewed our commitment to expanded capabilities to meet the needs of our customer, the U.S. Government. We have upgraded our equipment and refined our processes to emphasize productivity, innovation, safety and teamwork in the disassembly, destruction and disposal of munitions that can no longer be used. We need new employees to be a part of our team in our Hooks, Texas facility.

We are seeking a skilled and safety-conscious SDC/OGT Operator to support the operation of the Static Detonation Chamber and its associated Off-Gas Treatment system. This role is critical in the safe and compliant thermal destruction of munitions, hazardous waste, and energetic materials. The operator monitors and maintains process parameters, ensures environmental compliance, and supports plant reliability through routine inspections and system optimization.

This position works a 2-2-3 schedule: 12 hr. shift, either 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. Weekends, holidays, and/or night shifts are required.

This position will pay $19.00 per hour and increase to $20.00 per hour once full training and certifications are completed.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Operate and monitor the Static Detonation Chamber (SDC) to safely thermally treat hazardous or energetic materials.
• Manage the Off-Gas Treatment (OGT) system to ensure emissions control and compliance with environmental regulations.
• Perform routine inspections, system startups, and shutdowns following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Monitor process parameters (e.g., temperature, pressure, flow rates, gas concentrations) via control systems (SCADA/DCS/HMI).
• Conduct system diagnostics and basic troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and control issues.
• Record operational data and maintain accurate logs of chamber usage, system performance, and maintenance activities.
• Assist with maintenance, cleaning, and decontamination of SDC/OGT components as needed.
• Work collaboratively with safety, maintenance, and environmental personnel to meet performance and safety goals.
• Report deviations, malfunctions, and incidents promptly to supervisors.
• Follow all Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies and wear required PPE.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education

High school diploma or GED required

Experience

TBD

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Familiarity with combustion systems, air pollution control, or gas scrubbing equipment (e.g., baghouses, wet scrubbers, carbon filters).
• Working knowledge of HMI or distributed control systems.
• Ability to read and interpret operating manuals.
• Familiarity with reading and interpreting technical drawings and P&IDs.

Background Check and Prerequisites

Must undergo and meet company standards for background check, employment verification, reference checks, and controlled substance testing.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

With or without reasonable accommodations, requires the physical and mental capacity to effectively perform all essential functions. In addition to other demands, the demands of the job include:

• Must be able to work in high-temperature, loud, and potentially hazardous environments.
• Comfortable working in PPE and potentially contaminated or confined spaces.
• Rotational or shift work, including weekends and holidays, may be required.
• Requires physical stamina to lift up to 100 lbs., climb ladders, and work on elevated platforms.
• Regular use of PPE including respiratory protection, chemical suits, and hearing protection.
• Must be able to ascend three flights of stairs
• Must be able to crouch, bend, kneel in/around/under equipment
• May be exposed to inclement weather including extreme heat, cold, and rain

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Technical certification or associate degree in industrial operations, mechanical, electrical, or chemical technology preferred.
• Forklift, crane, or rigging certifications.
• 2+ years of experience in hazardous waste treatment, thermal destruction systems, or high-temperature process operations.
• Strong understanding of process safety and environmental compliance requirements (e.g., RCRA, Clean Air Act).
• OSHA 10/30, HAZWOPER (40-hour), or Confined Space Entry certification.
• Experience in demilitarization or energetic materials handling (highly desirable).
• Familiarity with CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management Systems).