Chemical Operator - Elma

Application Deadline: 19 September 2026

Department: Operations

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Elma, WA

Reporting To: Shift Supervisor

Compensation: $28.00 - $30.00 / hour

Description

• Phase 1 (Starting Tier — Utility Helper): You will build foundational manufacturing experience by handling raw material receiving, processing sodium ISO containers, managing product shipments, performing equipment prep, and maintaining site upkeep.
  
  
• Phase 2 (Advancement Tiers — Chemical Operator to "A" Level): As you complete mandatory in-step technical training and earn area certifications, your role expands to overseeing continuous production using Distributed Control Systems (DCS), analyzing laboratory samples, performing process troubleshooting, and executing basic maintenance.

Key Responsibilities

• ISO Container Operations: Safely perform heating, emptying, and switching operations for sodium ISO containers in accordance with site EHS and operating procedures.
• Material Handling: Unload raw materials, perform product packaging, apply regulatory labels, and execute product loading/unloading. 
• Railcar & Field Logistics: Safely operate the railcar mover, connect/disconnect railcars, manage internal movement of rail-based materials, and execute filter changes and routine equipment setups.

• DCS Operation: Learn, operate, and stay current with the Distributed Control System (DCS) to monitor and adjust continuous plant processes within design specifications.
• Process Control & Adjustments: Take readings, observe process equipment, identify performance gaps, respond promptly to process deviations, and execute corrective actions to ensure product quality.
• Troubleshooting & Maintenance: Perform laboratory sampling and analysis, basic mechanical repairs, equipment maintenance prep, and routine preventive maintenance.
  
  

• Operational Recordkeeping: Accurately record inventory levels, environmental parameters, and process readings as required.
• Logging & Handover: Maintain complete electronic logbook entries of operational events and actively participate in structured 12-hour shift turnover meetings.
  
  

• EHS Compliance: Perform all duties safely, maintaining strict adherence to Operating Discipline documentation and EHS excellence initiatives.
• Confined Space Entry: Safely perform duties within permit-required confined spaces (e.g., vessel inspection, cleaning, filter changes) following Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and atmospheric monitoring protocols.
• Facility Upkeep: Maintain site cleanliness, operate cleaning equipment, maintain exterior facility grounds, complete weed control, and perform routine touch-up painting of equipment and structural piping.

• Adaptability: Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to perform other duties as assigned by the Shift Supervisor, Lead Operator, or Operations Manager to support continuous 24/7 plant continuity.

Minimum Requirements

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Safety: Ability to wear and maintain PPE standards.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient in basic computer skills including MS Office programs.

• Communication & Collaboration: Effective communication and the ability to work well within a team.
• Problem-Solving: Strong troubleshooting skills to identify and resolve issues.
• Adaptability: Ability to multitask and prioritize effectively in a dynamic environment.
• Independence: Capable of performing work functions with minimal supervision.
• Precision: Keen attention to detail.
• Leadership: Demonstrated leadership potential, including decision-making and integrity.

Benefits

• Hiring Pay Range (Starting Rate):
  • Utility Helper: $28.00/hr (Minimum) | $30.00/hr (Maximum) (Starting rate determined by experience)
    
    
• Progressive Pay Path: New hires enter as a Utility Helper and must show continuous progression to Operator A within three years from the date of hire. As milestones and training benchmarks are met, pay scales up automatically according to the following progression bands:
  • Chemical Operator: $30.00/hr
  • Chemical Operator C: $30.90/hr
  • Chemical Operator B: $33.99/hr
  • Chemical Operator A: $37.60/hr
    
    
• Overtime Pay: Eligible for overtime at 1.5x the regular rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours per workweek, in accordance with Washington State law.

• Laboratory Sampling Certification: +$0.50/hr.
• Board Operator:+2.00/hr. (2-years of A level operator experience required)
• 4th Area of Certification:+$2.00/hr. (5-years of plant experience required)

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans; Life and AD&D insurance; and Short-term/Long-term Disability coverage.
• Retirement (401k): 100% match up to the first 3% of employee contributions; 70% match on contributions between 3% and 6%.
• Paid Time Off: All accrued and frontloaded time off benefits become available for use after 90 days of employment. Time off allotments for the first calendar year are prorated based on the hire date:
  • Vacation/Floating Holidays: Frontloaded on Jan. 1 annually based on tenure accrual [e.g., 120 hours for new hires], in accordance with the Employee Handbook.
  • Sick Leave: Accrued at a rate of 1 hour for every 40 hours worked, per WA State law.
  • Company Holidays: 9 paid company holidays (paid at 8 hours each) + 24 hours of floating holidays per calendar year.
• Additional Perks: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available immediately to support overall well-being.