A chemical equipment operator knows how to start, run, stop, and repair machines that deal with liquid and gaseous chemicals.
Did you love to make messes in the kitchen as a kid? Do chemistry experiments intrigue you? A chemical equipment operator spends his or her days managing chemicals and chemical processing machines. As a chemical equipment operator, you’ll work on the production floor as a critical component of the assembly line. It’s a fast-paced, ever-changing job that involves everything from chemicals to computers.
Chemical equipment operators work with very specific, specialized machines. As a result, you’ll get to know the ins and outs of your machine. Routine maintenance and upkeep are a part of your job as well as diagnosing problems and issues that might slow down or stop the manufacturing line. Knowledge of and attention to safety procedures is vital when working with chemicals and heavy machinery because both can be very dangerous. You’ll work with chemicals you’ve never heard of, making products that may range from medical gases to food products.
Your everyday tasks will include loading chemicals into the machines, which requires strength and caution. You’ll also start and stop the machines and check gauges to make sure everything is running properly. You might have the job of unloading and transporting finished products, cleaning the machine, and training new operators.
Also Known As:
Chemical Operator, Chemical Plant and Systems Operator, Acid Plant Operator, Devulcanizer Operator, Dissolver Operator, Janitor Engineer, Process Technician, Biological Science Technician
- Design Processes
- Manufacturing Processes
- Quality Assurance
- Understanding of Regulatory Requirements
- Active Listening
- Analytical Thinking
- Communication - Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking/Oral
- Complex Problem Solving Skills
- Critical Thinking Skills
- Decision Making
- Deductive Reasoning
- Quality Control Analysis — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance
- System Evaluation
- Adjust controls to regulate equipment and environment
- Monitor gauges, recording instruments, flowmeters, or products
- Create chemical reactions
- Measure, weigh, and mix chemical ingredients
- Inspect equipment or units to detect problems
- Test product samples for specific gravity, chemical characteristics, pH levels, concentrations, or viscosities
- Draw samples of products at specified stages
- Record operational data
- Heavy Lifting Ability
Specific job titles and duties vary by employer so check for details.