Pilot Plant Technician II

An innovative sustainable materials technology enterprise is seeking an experienced, mechanically skilled Pilot Plant Technician (Level II) to support demonstration-scale chemical operations. This individual will run continuous and batch processing equipment, monitor key operating variables via automated control systems, execute in-line quality testing, and maintain rigorous plant safety standards. The role offers structured career progression for technical operators looking to expand their ownership across chemical process scale-ups, complex machinery maintenance, and operational leadership.

Pilot Plant Technician II Core Responsibilities

• Process Execution & Equipment Operation: Safely set up, run, and adjust chemical process equipment—including continuous reactors, separation units, slurry pumps, and mixing vessels—maintaining tight process control within established operating limits.
• Process Instrumentation & Data Integrity: Track real-time process trends across control panels, flowmeters, pressure gauges, and analytical instruments, keeping accurate operational logs to identify deviations and support engineering yield improvements.
• Sampling, Testing & Quality Assurance: Draw process stream samples, perform analytical quality checks, and evaluate output data to verify product specifications, optimize recovery rates, and assist with mass-balance calculations.
• Preventative Maintenance & Plant Reliability: Carry out routine equipment inspections, line servicing, cleaning, and mechanical troubleshooting, partnering directly with equipment vendors and maintenance teams to minimize downtime.
• Safety Protocols & Continuous Improvement: Maintain strict chemical handling and hazard mitigation standards, assist in updating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and actively participate in root-cause investigations, Gemba walks, and Kaizen events.

Pilot Plant Technician II Candidate Qualifications

• Experience: 5–8 years of hands-on operations experience within a chemical, hydrometallurgical, specialty refining, or advanced materials pilot plant environment.
• Technical Mastery: Working understanding of industrial reaction chemistry, factory automation/SCADA interfaces, process instrumentation, and fluid handling systems.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Strong troubleshooting and mechanical maintenance capability across pumps, valves, piping, agitators, and pressure vessels.
• Root-Cause Problem Solving: Practical experience applying structured problem-solving methods (5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams, SPC trends) alongside Lean/5S workplace standards.
• Documentation Skills: Skilled in reading PFDs, P&IDs, equipment schematics, and executing detailed Standard Operating Procedures with strict data accuracy.
• Safety Certifications (Preferred): Material handling/hazmat training, OSHA 10/30, or HAZWOPER certification.

Pilot Plant Technician II Benefits & Total Rewards

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage (employee, spouse, and family plans)
• 401(k) retirement plan with competitive employer matching
• Company-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Flexible paid time off (PTO) and paid company holidays