Operator Trainee/Utility Helper

About the Role

• Operator Trainee / Utility Helper at a growth-oriented downstream energy company
• Entry-level job classification
• Union-represented (USW)
• Ability to progress through higher permanent classifications with the Operations Department, up to and including, becoming a board operator.

Key Responsibilities

• Load/unload products (asphalt, emulsion, butane, ethanol, biodiesel) at loading racks or railcar facility
• Operate fired heaters.
• Blend asphalts, emulsions, and/or motor gasoline to meet specifications per blend orders.
• Coordinate with process operators, laboratory personnel, scalehouse personnel, and truck drivers.
• Operate water treatment systems and utility systems (N2, cooling towers).
• Set up crude and/or product transfers to/from the tank farm and process units and to/from the marine dock.
• Monitor boiler operation for steam production.
• Operate valves, pumps, and other equipment to move crude oil and refined products within the refinery (Valves up to 12-16” size).
• Monitor processes to ensure production of on-specification petroleum products.
• Respond to all emergencies, including running to isolation valves and critical equipment in emergency conditions.
• Become familiar with and capable of using all response and safety equipment used in emergency situations.
• Coordinate with management/supervision to ensure short-term and long-term orders are carried out.
• Coordinate with maintenance personnel to ensure equipment is kept in operating condition.
• Assist engineering personnel in the design and implementation of modifications to process equipment.
• Maintain unit records (logs, log books, transfer sheets, etc.).
• Complete and monitor safety permits.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship.
• High school graduate or GED.
• Completion of an Associate's degree or vocational training highly desirable.
• Valid state driver’s license.
• Work experience in a manufacturing environment, petroleum refinery, chemical plant, military fuels management, or other related process industry jobs.
• Application of basic mathematics, conversion factors, and tables/charts is required.
• Mechanical aptitude is strongly desirable.
• A basic understanding of chemistry and physics principles are desirable.
• Pass a pre-employment physical exam demonstrating good physical condition.
• Work is mostly out-of-doors, year-around, and around the clock.
• Frequent climbing of stairs/ladders on tanks and towers, operating valves, and considerable walking.
• Must be able to lift a 30-pound load.
• Pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in a random drug testing program.
• Obtain a Homeland Security Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
• Review eligibility criteria at https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic.
• Qualify for a respirator SCBA clearance.
• Experience working rotating shifts is desirable (employees work rotating shifts, 24 hours/day and 7 days/week).
• Must be able to work scheduled and unscheduled overtime.
• Excellent team member characteristics.
• Capable to comprehend and follow complex procedures in a fast-paced environment.
• Good communication skills (written, face-to-face, radio, and/or telephone).
• Capable to traverse uneven terrain, scaffolding, and earthen areas.
• Able to climb ladders, elevated walkways, and climb onto rail cars.