Be an essential element to a brighter future. We work together to transform essential resources into critical ingredients for mobility, energy, connectivity and health. Join our values-led organization committed to building a more resilient world with people and planet in mind. Our core values (https://www.albemarle.com/about/our-values) are the foundation that make us successful for ourselves, our customers and the planet. **Job Description** Are you inspired by “what’s next”? So are we. When you join the Ketjen team, you contribute to a better tomorrow. You will play a role in powering many of the world’s largest and most critical industries, from energy and communications to transportation and electronics. We are putting innovation to work to improve people’s lives and we want YOU to be a part of it. Ketjen is hiring for a Pilot Plant Operator / Maintenance Technician. This position is located in the Bayport site R&D Pilot Plant. **Responsibilities:** + Operate and maintain pilot plant equipment, including mills, parr reactor, supral reactors, rotary calciner, vacuum pumps, crystallizer, kettle, steam boiler, hot water heater and other pilot plant equipment. + **Understand the basics of the core components of a DCS, including controllers, human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and communication networks.** + Repair, order, and maintain inventory of spare parts, O-rings, seals, pumps, rotors, stators, etc. + Handle small-scale analytical methods with training (e.g., LOI, viscosity measurements). + Train to work independently with minimal supervision, carrying out catalyst preparations in the pilot plant to support new and existing product development efforts led by a chemist/engineer and the pilot plant supervisor. + Tasks include manipulating spreadsheets, compounding FCC catalyst slurries, spray-drying, post-processing, recording process data, and verifying the quality of catalyst preparations. + Provide support for new product and technology trials, and other plant support as needed. + Follow procedures and SOPs closely, documenting and explaining any deviations. + Ensure high productivity and quality in catalyst preparations, resulting in excellent customer satisfaction. + Communicate effectively and timely with the pilot plant supervisor and other customers, including researchers and manufacturing contacts. + Maintain a safe work environment, proactively addressing potential safety issues. + Ensure raw materials are readily available and qualified for use. + Keep the pilot plant well-organized, neat, and clean always. + Write permits for both the pilot plant and general R&T areas. + Adapt quickly to rapidly changing priorities with a positive attitude. **Required Qualifications:** + Associate degree in science, process operation, or equivalent; or 20+ hours of college Chemistry. + Minimum of 1 to 4 years’ experience in a lab or operating plant environment; plant/pilot plant operating experience preferred. + Strong commitment to continuous improvement, safety, and environmental protection. + Strong background in maintenance and troubleshooting equipment issues. + Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills are vital to this position. + Proficiency in computer, spreadsheet, and math skills. + Strong initiative to complete tasks and good communication skills. + Safe and responsible individual, with a desire to learn in a fast-paced, changing environment. + Knowledge and experience in equipment operation, along with computer skills and a science or industrial background, are preferred. **Physical Demands** + Must be able to work in a chemical laboratory, which requires standing for 50% or more of the time. + Must be able to physically operate and maintain equipment. + Must be able to lift and carry 15-20 pounds. **Benefits of Joining Albemarle** + Competitive compensation + Comprehensive benefits package + A diverse array of resources to support you professionally and personally. We are partners to one another in pioneering new ways to be better for ourselves, our teams, and our communities. When you join Albemarle, you become our most essential element and you can anticipate competitive compensation, a comprehensive benefits package, and resources that foster your well-being and fuel your personal growth. Help us shape the future, build with purpose and grow together.