Chemical Process Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Chemical Engineer provides technical and safety leadership to support the safe, compliant, and reliable operation of a Process Safety Management (PSM) regulated chemical manufacturing facility processing chrome ore and chromium-based materials. In addition to process safety and hazard control responsibilities, this role supports production optimization, cost reduction initiatives, and operational troubleshooting. The position requires strong cross-functional collaboration and the ability to translate technical analysis into practical plant improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as a visible safety leader and promote a strong process safety culture throughout the plant.
• Lead and participate in Process Hazard Analyses (PHA/HAZOP), What-If reviews, and risk assessments.
• Support OSHA Process Safety Management (29 CFR 1910.119), industrial hygiene, and environmental compliance programs.
• Provide day-to-day process engineering support to chrome ore and chromium-based chemical operations.
• Monitor and optimize process parameters to improve safety, quality, throughput, and reliability.
• Coordinate and oversee contractors and third-party vendors performing maintenance, construction, or engineering work to ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.
• Analyze operational data using tools such as Excel, Access, or similar software to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
• Lead or support root cause investigations for incidents, near misses, and abnormal operating conditions.
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, EHS, and Engineering teams to drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering (required).
• 1 to 3 years of experience in chemical manufacturing or other PSM-regulated, high-hazard industrial environments.
• Strong understanding of OSHA PSM regulations.
• Ability to interpret and understand process control systems.
• Understanding of corrosion-resistant materials and oxidizing chemical systems preferred.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced plant environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with mineral processing, metallurgical operations, or chromium-based chemical processes.
• Knowledge of industrial hygiene controls related to dust, heavy metals, and hazardous materials.
• Six Sigma or Lean manufacturing experience desirable.

Working Conditions

• Plant-based role in a high-hazard industrial manufacturing environment.
• Regular exposure to high-temperature systems, pressurized equipment, and chromium-containing materials.
• Required use of PPE including hard hat, safety glasses, chemical-resistant gloves, and respirators when applicable.
• Must be able to walk production areas, climb stairs and ladders, and lift up to 25 lbs.
• May require occasional off-shift, weekend, or on-call support during shutdowns or process upsets.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• STD/LTD
• Safety equipment provided