Chemical Processing Line Operator

We are looking for a talented individual to join our dynamic Keystone Manufacturing team located in Kalamazoo, MI. A Chemical Processing Line Operator is a motivated self-starter who effectively follows the Company’s SOPs to operate processing equipment to convert chemical materials into finished products on time while ensuring specifications are met and maintaining the production environment. The specialist will complete visual inspections and other testing as required to identify non-conformities in parallel with production.

A successful Chemical Processing Line Operator must be capable of working with minimal supervision, have a “can do” attitude, possess creative problem-solving skills and be willing to do “whatever it takes” to complete assigned tasks efficiently and effectively. This team member should have excellent interpersonal skills, great attention to detail and be highly organized with the ability to multitask with minimum interruption to work progress.

Responsibilities and Activities

• Operates automatic and manual chemical process equipment of varying complexity in accordance with operating procedures, including programmable, logic control devices
• Responsible for operating equipment for complex liquid / chemical batch manufacturing. Equipment includes but not limited to: mixers, agitators, pumps, valves, automated and manual delivery systems.
• Responsible for following all established policies, practices and procedures related to all job duties
• Responsible for following all Good Documentation Practices (GDP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and SOPs as defined by the Company’s policies, practices and procedures to ensure that FDA regulations, ISO Standards and Company quality standards are met
• Ensure safety guidelines/rules are strictly followed; verify that preventive measures are in place before operating; utilize SDS regularly; wear required PPE & PPC in accordance w/ site and area procedures; utilize extreme caution for process safety due to chemicals used; recognize safety concerns and escalate via processes
• Prepare work area and keep it safe, clean and organized per Company standards
• Responsible to off load and package intermediate and final products, as well as waste.
• Generate product label per specification to support Company production needs
• Verify accuracy of product produced against specification and resolve discrepancies as directed by Company standards
• Work with leadership and engineering to support process and new product development
• Use measuring and testing devices according to established instructions or quality practice standards
• Use manufacturing and quality assurance specifications to determine acceptance and/or performance on all assemblies
• Utilize strong attention to detail and multi-tasking, responsible for quality control of product, which includes frequent in-process and final product quality testing. Communicate out of control conditions, out of tolerance parameters, and out of specification products to leadership, engineering, and quality in a timely manner.
• Required to identify and complete preventive maintenance at a basic level. Handle first-line troubleshooting such as equipment malfunctions, computer program issues, setting adjustments and documenting changes made to resolve the issue and involve leadership, engineering, and quality as needed.

Minimum Requirements/Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Good judgement, excellent communication, and attention to detail.
• Strong multi-tasking skills
• Must have excellent documentation, organizational, numerical, analytical skills.
• Must have good communication and interpersonal skills
• A self-starter who can identify, prioritize and accomplish multiple tasks with an ability to work with minimal supervision; ability to take general direction and complete assignments/tasks
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude
• Demonstrated track record of problem solving using a fundamental approach
• Must be able to work extended hours, including weekends and holidays may be required to support the organizations objectives
• The role is located in Kalamazoo, MI and may require less than 5% travel
• References must be provided upon request.
• Must be authorized to work in the US without sponsorship.
• Experience in chemical process or chemical handling is strongly preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to read and write, and perform basic math
• Must be able to work with hand tools and powered equipment
• Frequently pushing, pulling, and carrying up to 50 pounds may be required
• Standing for extended periods of time, walking, bending, stooping at the waist/knees, pushing, pulling, lifting, climbing stairs/ladders, and overhead work are required at various times
• Must be willing and able to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required
• Use of mobile equipment
• Some work requires manual dexterity & repetitive movements of the upper extremities
• Responsible for ensuring, promoting, and working in a clean environment with varying degrees of temperatures, humidity and Quality Protective Equipment
• This position involves working in an environment with high levels of radiofrequency (RF) energy which could potentially interfere with implanted medical devices like pacemakers. Candidates with such devices must consult their healthcare provider before applying.