About the Role
We are seeking a Pilot Plant Technician III to operate and maintain pilot-scale chemical process equipment while supporting safe, efficient, and high-quality plant operations. This role is well suited for someone who works with precision, stays focused in hands-on technical environments, and applies sound judgment to process monitoring, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement. As a more advanced technician on the team, this person will bring deeper technical skill, greater operational independence, and the ability to support process ownership and technician development.
Core Responsibilities
- Operate and adjust pilot plant equipment, including pumps, reactors, mixers, and related systems, to maintain target process conditions
- Monitor gauges, flowmeters, and control panels to ensure chemical reactions and production activity remain within defined parameters
- Evaluate process conditions, optimize performance, and recommend tighter process controls where appropriate
- Collect samples, perform quality checks, and use process data to evaluate output, improve yield, and support product quality standards
- Maintain detailed operational logs for pressures, temperatures, flow rates, and other critical variables; improve logs to better capture essential process data
- Perform inspections, cleaning, and routine maintenance on plant equipment; engage vendors and suppliers on more complex repairs to reduce downtime
- Troubleshoot equipment issues and process deviations, identify root causes, and recommend corrective actions to eliminate recurring problems
- Follow all safety procedures for chemical handling, personal protective equipment, and emergency response
- Document findings, develop and improve standard operating procedures and work instructions, and recommend process or workflow improvements, including automation opportunities
- Lead or support Kaizen events, Gemba walks, and corrective action activities
- Train and mentor junior technicians, supporting onboarding and day-to-day technical development
Required Skills & Abilities
- Strong understanding of basic chemistry, chemical reactions, and industrial process control systems
- Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, safety procedures, and operating documentation
- Ability to produce process work instructions and standard operating procedures
- Mechanical aptitude with advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis capability
- Strong attention to detail in monitoring, documentation, and quality control activities
- Ability to work independently on technical tasks while coordinating effectively with plant personnel
- Experience with continuous improvement methods such as 5S, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Kaizen
Other Requirements
- 7–10 years of relevant experience in pilot plant, chemical processing, manufacturing, or related industrial operations
- Certifications in material handling, transport, or disposal are a plus
- Experience using root cause analysis tools such as 5 Whys, Fishbone diagrams, SPC charts, or DOE is preferred