The Chemical Engineer I Associate is an entry-level engineering position responsible for supporting manufacturing operations, process optimization, environmental compliance initiatives, and continuous improvement projects within a chemical manufacturing facility. This role applies fundamental chemical engineering principles to monitor and improve plant processes, analyze operating data, participate in process safety activities, and support project execution.
The incumbent develops technical and professional competencies through structured on-the-job training, mentorship, and a documented development plan. Working closely with operations, maintenance, quality, safety, and engineering personnel, the Chemical Engineer I Associate contributes to the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of manufacturing assets while building foundational engineering expertise. Travel is expected to be less than 10%.
Process Support & Optimization (30%)
- Monitor and evaluate assigned manufacturing processes to support safe and efficient production.
- Analyze operating data and process trends to identify improvement opportunities.
- Support troubleshooting activities related to process performance, reliability, and product quality.
- Assist in implementing process improvements and operational best practices.
Engineering Projects & Continuous Improvement (20%)
- Participate as a team member on process improvement, capital, and productivity projects.
- Collect data, perform calculations, and assist with engineering evaluations.
- Support project development, implementation, testing, and documentation activities.
Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance (20%)
- Support efforts to close health, safety, and environmental action items utilizing tracking systems and tools.
- Participate in Process Hazard Analysis reviews and gain understanding of process risk assessment methodologies.
- Support compliance with company and regulatory environmental requirements.
- Promote safe work practices and a strong safety culture throughout the facility.
Technical Development & Training (10%)
- Complete assigned learning curriculum and documented development plan.
- Develop proficiency in engineering methods, standards, and manufacturing processes.
- Apply fundamental chemical engineering principles to achieve assigned objectives.
Data Analysis & Digital Manufacturing Tools (10%)
- Utilize basic simulation, process control, historian, and analytical tools.
- Support process monitoring and performance improvement initiatives through data-driven analysis.
- Develop foundational knowledge of digital manufacturing technologies and systems.
Communication & Collaboration (10%)
- Work effectively with operations, maintenance, laboratory, quality, and engineering teams.
- Prepare technical reports and communicate project updates to supervisors and team members.
- Build productive working relationships within the site and with other early-career engineers.
- Protect intellectual property and maintain confidentiality of business information.
Min Years of Experience
- 0 years of experience required.
- Typically requires a Bachelors degree and 0-3 years of related experience; or an advanced degree without experience; or equivalent work experience.
- Development Engineer Program participants may qualify with less than 1.5 years of experience.
- Bachelors Degree in Chemical Engineering required.
Required
- Site-required safety training.
- Process safety and environmental compliance training.
Preferred
- Internship, co-op, or manufacturing experience.
- Exposure to process simulation or process control systems.
Competencies-Knowledge Skills & Abilities
- Foundational knowledge of chemical engineering principles and manufacturing processes.
- Ability to learn plant processes and deliver assigned technical results.
- Ability to gather, organize, and analyze data in support of engineering projects.
- Basic proficiency with engineering methods, calculations, and problem-solving tools.
- Understanding of process safety fundamentals and Process Hazard Analysis concepts.
- Basic knowledge of process simulation software and engineering applications.
- Strong analytical thinking and troubleshooting skills.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a cross-functional team.
- Basic understanding of manufacturing workflows and organizational responsibilities.
- Ability to learn and utilize process historian and digital manufacturing systems.
- Awareness of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives.
- Demonstrated commitment to protecting intellectual property and confidential information.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
HES Requirement
- Supports the site HES policy and complies with all regulatory and internal requirements.
- Participates in HES activities provided by site management and Arkema Inc. (e.g., Behavioral Base Safety, SafeStart, etc.)
- Supports and promotes the reporting of all health, safety, environmental, near-miss, accident or injury incidents.
Physical Demands/Working Conditions
Position is based in a chemical manufacturing facility with associated industrial operating conditions and hazards. Regular interaction with production units, process equipment, operators, maintenance personnel, and site leadership is required. The role requires walking throughout the facility, climbing stairs and ladders as needed, and wearing required personal protective equipment. Work is performed in both office and manufacturing environments while supporting operational and project objectives.