Catalyst / Laboratory Operator

Catalyst / Laboratory Operator

Work Schedule: Full-Time | 12-Hour Shifts, 4 Days per Week

Position Overview

The Catalyst / Downstream Operator performs specialized polymer testing, characterization, and inert chemical handling within the Catalyst Advanced Research Lab in support of the Univation-PE Catalysis Research Business. Working closely with research chemists, project engineers, and lead coordinators, you will generate high-quality analytical data on developmental polyolefin catalysts, maintain advanced laboratory instrumentation, and uphold rigorous process safety standards.

Key Responsibilities

1. Polymer Testing & Analytical Characterization

• Rheological & Physical Testing: Measure Melt Flow Index (MFI) across a suite of six Tinius Olsen Melt Flow Indexers; identify sample impurities prior to testing to ensure data accuracy. Determine bulk density using ASTM standard apparatus.
• Particle Size & Morphological Analysis: Execute wet- and dry-method particle size distribution analysis using Malvern and Gradex automated instrumentation.
• Specimen Preparation & Compression Molding: Fabricate polymer test plaques for rapid density measurement utilizing a Wabash hydraulic compression molding press. Prepare samples for oven drying.
• Advanced Analytical Routing: Retrieve, stage, and prepare polymer specimens for advanced downstream analytical workflows, including DSC, Compositional GPC, Triple-Detector GPC, Compositional Triple-Detector GPC, Butyl Branch Frequency, and iCCD.
• Data Integrity & Campaign Support: Record and log experimental data; perform re-tests and supplemental sample analyses to support research campaign objectives and project deliverables.

2. Chemical Handling & Process Operations

• Inert Atmosphere Handling: Operate and maintain nitrogen gloveboxes for the safe storage, transfer, and manipulation of moisture- and air-sensitive catalyst samples and pyrophoric reagents.
• Polymer Washing & Purification: Conduct polymer washing inside chemical fume hoods to extract residual sodium chloride; exercise qualitative judgment based on sample morphology (e.g., color, fine vs. rocky consistency) to ensure thorough separation.
• Formulation & Reactor Support: Accurately weigh and blend polymer additives. Prepare specialized salt beds to support gas-phase reactor operations.
• Laboratory Math & Physical Property Evaluation: Calculate solution dilutions, concentrations, molar ratios, and unit conversions. Reference and interpret chemical properties including boiling point, vapor pressure, flash point, molecular weight, and density.

3. Equipment Maintenance & Process Troubleshooting

• Diagnostic Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve operational upsets with MFI indexers, Gradex systems, Malvern analyzers, and hydraulic compression presses to minimize downtime.
• Preventative Maintenance: Perform routine mechanical servicing, including hydraulic fluid exchanges on compression presses, alignment and weight adjustments on melt indexers, and blender bottle rebuilds.

4. Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Conduct daily process safety walkthroughs and complete mandatory pre-operational safety checklists.
• Segregate, package, label, and dispose of hazardous laboratory chemical waste in compliance with RCRA regulations and facility protocols.
• Actively participate in site safety programs, wear all required PPE, and immediately report or correct unsafe conditions.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Education & Experience:
• Associate degree in a technical discipline (Chemical Technology, Process Technology, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related field) with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7; OR
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant hands-on experience in a chemical laboratory, pilot plant, or manufacturing environment (e.g., Lab Technician, Reactor Operator, Chemical Technician).
• Technical & Mathematical Acumen: Ability to calculate solution concentrations, dilutions, and unit conversions; familiarity with referencing SDS and physical chemical properties.
• Safety Proficiency: Demonstrated knowledge of the hazards and safe handling procedures associated with flammable, pyrophoric, and air/moisture-sensitive materials.
• Communication & Teamwork: Strong verbal and written communication skills with the confidence to collaborate directly with research chemists, lead coordinators, and engineering staff.
• Physical Demands & Schedule:
• Ability to lift and maneuver containers up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to wear required PPE (safety glasses/goggles, lab coats, face shields, and specialty gloves).
• Ability to work a scheduled shift pattern of 12-hour shifts, 4 days per week.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience operating an inert atmosphere (nitrogen or argon) glovebox.
• Hands-on familiarity with polymer characterization techniques (MFI, ASTM bulk density, Malvern particle sizing, GPC/DSC sample prep).
• Basic mechanical troubleshooting skills (hydraulics, mechanical alignments, lab bench equipment repairs).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data entry and tracking.

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