Chemical Plant Operator

Job Summary:

The Chemical Plant Operator is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining chemical process systems and equipment to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant production of chemical products. The role involves controlling production processes, handling raw materials, monitoring equipment performance, and adhering to strict safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Plant Operations:

• Operate process equipment such as reactors, distillation columns, evaporators, scrubbers, heat exchangers, centrifuges, dryers, and filters.
  
• Start up, shut down, and control plant operations according to standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  
• Charge raw materials and monitor process parameters (temperature, pressure, flow rate, pH, etc.).
  
• Adjust process variables to maintain quality, yield, and efficiency.
  
• Ensure proper labeling, storage, and transfer of chemicals within the plant.
  

2. Monitoring & Control:

• Use DCS/SCADA systems or manual controls to monitor production processes.
  
• Record operational data such as readings, flow rates, and production metrics in logbooks or systems.
  
• Conduct in-process sampling and coordinate with the quality control department.
  
• Identify, troubleshoot, and report process or equipment abnormalities to the supervisor.
  

3. Safety, Health & Environment (SHE):

• Follow all plant safety rules, standard safety practices, and PPE requirements.
  
• Handle hazardous chemicals safely and in accordance with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
  
• Respond quickly to alarms, leaks, or emergencies according to safety procedures.
  
• Maintain cleanliness and housekeeping standards in all operational areas.
  
• Participate in safety audits, drills, and environmental monitoring programs.
  

4. Maintenance Support:

• Assist maintenance teams during breakdowns, preventive maintenance, and shutdown activities.
  
• Perform basic maintenance checks such as lubrication, leak inspection, and equipment cleanliness.
  
• Report mechanical or instrumentation issues immediately.
  

5. Documentation & Reporting:

• Complete production records, batch manufacturing records (BMR), and log sheets accurately.
  
• Report production figures, downtime, and material usage to supervisors.
  
• Maintain proper documentation for shift handovers.
  

6. Continuous Improvement:

• Suggest improvements to increase plant efficiency, safety, and product quality.
  
• Support process optimization and energy-saving initiatives.
  

Qualifications & Experience:

• Education:

  Diploma / ITI / B.Sc. (Chemistry or Chemical Engineering) or equivalent qualification.

• Experience:

  26 years of experience in a chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, or specialty chemical manufacturing plant.

• Technical Skills:

• Knowledge of unit operations such as distillation, filtration, drying, and blending.
  
• Familiarity with process control systems (DCS/PLC).
  
• Ability to read P&IDs, process flow diagrams, and follow SOPs.
  
• Understanding of chemical safety and handling procedures.
  

• Soft Skills:

• Strong sense of responsibility and attention to detail.
  
• Good teamwork and communication skills.
  
• Ability to work in rotating shifts and handle emergency situations calmly.