Chemical Pilot Plant Operator

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Position Summary

The Pilot Plant Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient and effective operation of pilot plant equipment and processes in support of Virent research and development in conversion of biomass to fuels and chemicals. The Pilot Plant Operator will perform a variety of activities, including set up of equipment, measurement of experimental data, data entry and review, modification and repair of equipment, and troubleshooting of equipment and experimental results. The position includes shift work and requires the ability to communicate conditions and issues effectively with a wide range of Researchers, Analysts, Operators and Management.

Essential Technical Responsibilities and Duties

  • Conduct individual work activities in a safe and environmentally considerate manner, which requires both complying with policy and understanding the impact of individual actions.
  • Perform day to day operation of pilot plants, including start-up, normal operation, shut-down, emergency operation and maintenance.
  • Develop working knowledge of all Pilot Plant Laboratory equipment and utilities, including their functions and hazards, how to safely and properly use them & the processes & procedures that apply to them.
  • Develop working knowledge of all chemicals handled and used, including purpose, hazards, safe handling and proper disposal.
  • Complete assigned training, including safety, orientation, job specific & refresher training, on time as agreed.
  • Maintain person and laboratory to established cleanliness and professional appearance standards, and take appropriate opportunities for improvement.
  • Collaborate with Researchers, Chemists, Operators, and Engineers to achieve successful experiment completion.
  • Handle chemicals, including preparation of feeds, loading and unloading catalysts, sampling and storing products and using cleaning solutions.
  • Manipulate process parameters, including temperature, pressure & flow, as directed by experimental documentation & communications with Research group.
  • Troubleshoot process operation, including equipment and process related issues.
  • Accurately collect, review, and enter data for pilot plant operations.
  • Maintain equipment, which includes cleaning, investigating problems with, repairing and replacing as necessary.
  • Physically modify pilot plants by adding or removing equipment, modifying process path, and adjusting settings as directed by experimental design and communications with Research.
  • Communicate status, performance, issues, modifications and other operational details and issues as frequently as required to maintain positive experimental progress.

Education and Experience Requirements

  • EDUCATION: Associate degree in manufacturing, engineering or physical science

Or

  • EXPERIENCE: 2-4 years of experience in a laboratory, pilot plant, or production environment in a chemical processing industry or equivalent fast paced, uncertain environment.

And

  • TECHNICAL SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE: Ability to read, understand and follow instructions (policies, operating procedures, material safety data sheets, experimental run plans, equipment operation manuals). Ability to complete basic mathematical calculations (+-*/, rate of change, deviation, algebra, geometry). Proficiency in Excel, Power Point, Word, and Outlook. Sharepoint experience preferred but not required. Basic understanding of chemistry and electronics (pressure, temperature, flow, reaction, voltage, current, resistance).

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

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Virent, Inc. is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer