Process Control Chemist Trainee

TITLE: Process Control Chemist Trainee

LOCATION: Muskegon, MI

POSITION SUMMARY/OBJECTIVE: In this role, the Process Chemist Trainee will have the unique opportunity to work together with Process Chemists, gaining invaluable knowledge and skills essential to pigment production. This role will dive into the core of our operations, learning to meticulously monitor and direct every aspect of the pigment manufacturing process. The primary focus will be on ensuring that our final products meet rigorous quality standards while maintaining safety and cost-effectiveness daily.

While working with the Process Control Chemists, will become knowledgeable in the pigment manufacturing chemistry processes to direct and manage the manufacturing process within the plant. Will need to become familiar with product code information to formulate blends and address plant processing issues as they arise.

When completion of training, the individual will be able to fulfill the role of a Process Control Chemist and complete the following essential duties and responsibilities.

Training will be required on all shifts within the department with Process Control Chemists and Process/Dry Lab.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Assist Production Supervisors and Production Scheduler in the scheduling of batches throughout the plant. Monitor individual batch processes and direct hourly personnel in batch-making practices within the manufacturing process. Identify causes of non-conformances and recommend corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Perform required testing to ensure optimum quality is achieved and equipment usage is maximized. Testing includes statistical analysis on the process and resultant quality, routine physical and/or chemical testing of finished goods, material in process or raw materials. Use the results to recommend changes in process parameters. Investigate the cause of off-quality batches and assist in Investigations.
• Complete necessary paperwork and system transactions including SAP, batch accounting, product formulations, and assist with troubleshooting Process Control systems. Monitor systems and implement system maintenance when needed.
• Perform laboratory experiments to evaluate the effect of process changes on plant manufactured products, including generating requisite reports.
• Ensure adequate test materials are always available for instrument calibration and maintain calibration status on specific process equipment.
• Other duties as assigned

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• BS in Chemistry or other science related field
• Knowledge of appropriate laboratory testing protocol and instrumentation.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate and direct hourly personnel in the technical process of the manufacturing operation.
• General chemistry background with basic understanding of chemical safety and general laboratory practices.
• Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks at one time.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Previous experience in MS Office.
• Capable of self-directed investigating and probing to understand process flow.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• 1+ years' experience in the chemistry industry or equivalent work experience in pigment manufacturing or in a science / quality-related field within manufacturing is preferred.