Location: King of Prussia, PA
Reports To: Pilot Plant Manager
Join Arkemas Innovation Team
Arkemas North America Corporate R&D Headquarters in King of Prussia, PA is seeking a Chemical Operator/Maintenence Technician to join our mulit-business unit pilot plant team. This is an exciting opportunity for a mechanically inclined, safety-focused professional who enjoys working at the intersection of research, manufacturing, and process development.
In this role, youll play a critical part in scaling innovative technologies from the laboratory to commercial production. Working alongside engineers, scientists, maintenance professionals, and operations personnel, youll support pilot-scale chemical processes, troubleshoot equipment, contribute to process improvements, and help bring new products and technologies to life.
This is a hands-on position that combines plant operations, mechanical maintenance, process troubleshooting, and continuous improvement in a dynamic R&D environment. The role operates on a rotating shift (1st & 2nd shift) schedule and may require occasional schedule flexibility to support operational needs.
What Youll Do
Plant Operations (75%):
- Safely operate pilot plant processes, wastewater treatment systems, and utility equipment in accordance with established operating procedures.
- Monitor process performance using control systems and accurately document operational data, observations, and test results.
- Troubleshoot process and equipment issues, participate in root cause investigations, and support corrective actions.
- Conduct routine quality control testing, including pH analysis, solids content determination, and rheology testing.
- Support commissioning, start-up, and optimization of new pilot plant processes and technologies.
- Respond effectively and professionally to emergency situations by following established procedures.
Maintenance & Continuous Improvement (15%):
- Apply mechanical skills to build, modify, repair, and improve pilot plant equipment and systems.
- Participate in 5S and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance workplace organization, safety, and efficiency.
- Identify maintenance needs through inspections and safety checks, then collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to prioritize repairs.
- Support contractor activities and ensure safe work permit processes are followed during maintenance and project work.
Safety, Health & Environmental Excellence (10%):
- Actively contribute to a strong safety culture by participating in safety programs, inspections, and hazard identification activities and serving as a safety advocate throughout the facility.
- Support Process Hazard Analyses (PHA), Management of Change (MOC), Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR), and incident investigations.
- Identify potential safety concerns and partner with site leadership to implement corrective actions.
What Were Looking For
Required Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and experience troubleshooting equipment and systems.
- Math skills and ability to perform routine operational calculations.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and computer-based operating systems.
- Ability to work safely in an industrial environment and on a rotating shift schedule.
Preferred Qualifications:
- 3 - 5 years of experience in a chemical manufacturing, pilot plant, laboratory, maintenance, utilities, or industrial operations environment (Associates degree is a plus).
- Instrumentation and/or electrical troubleshooting experience.
- Experience using Distributed Control Systems (DCS) or other automated process control systems.
- Ability to read and modify technical drawings, schematics, and P&IDs.
- Familiarity with chemical industry safety and environmental regulations.
- Relevant military technical experience may be considered in lieu of traditional industry experience.
Key Success Factors
Were looking for someone who:
- Demonstrates strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Remains calm, professional, and safety-focused in high-pressure situations.
- Communicates effectively and maintains accurate operational records.
- Exercises good judgment and knows when to act independently versus when to seek guidance.
- Is curious, eager to learn, and motivated to expand their technical knowledge and skill set.
- Thrives in a collaborative, hands-on environment and embraces continuous improvement.