Pilot Plant Operator

Your Job

Koch-Glitsch is currently hiring for an R&D Pilot Plant Technician.

In this role, you will operate pilot-scale process equipment and work side-by-side with technicians and engineers to execute research testing, evaluate new technologies, and support product development efforts.

This position is ideal for operators and technicians from refinery, chemical processing, oilfield, wastewater treatment, or similar industrial process environments who enjoy hands-on work, troubleshooting equipment, and solving operational challenges.

This position is not eligible for VISA Sponsorship.

Shift: This position works a fixed third-shift schedule of 10:00 p.m.

to 8:00 a.m.

on a 4-day work week.

Scheduled workdays begin Monday night through Thursday night, with the final shift ending Friday morning at 8:00 a.m.

What You Will Do


* Operate pilot-scale distillation and process equipment using PLC control systems while monitoring pressures, temperatures, flow rates, levels, and overall process conditions.


* Collect, document, and analyze process data and chemical samples to support testing activities and project objectives.


* Install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain instrumentation, controls, and pilot plant equipment used in research operations.


* Prepare, modify, and maintain test equipment including pumps, heat exchangers, piping, tubing, insulation, and other mechanical systems.


* Safely handle chemicals, execute test procedures, support equipment startups and shutdowns, and respond appropriately to abnormal operating conditions.


* Support fabrication, modification, and repair of test equipment and prototypes through welding, metal forming, 3D printing, and other mechanical work as experience allows.


* Maintain compliance with all safety requirements and safe work practices, including HAZWOPER, confined space entry, hot work permitting, lockout/tagout, forklift operation, hoist operation, respirator use, and related safety programs.


* Apply sound operator judgment by identifying potential issues, communicating concerns, asking questions when conditions are unclear, and collaborating with technicians and engineers to achieve successful testing outcomes.

Who You Are (Basic Qualifications)


* Experience operating or supporting equipment in a refinery, chemical processing facility, pilot plant, oilfield operation, wastewater treatment facility, power generation facility, or similar commercial process plant environment.


* Experience working with process equipment, instrumentation, controls, mechanical systems, maintenance activities, or plant operations.


* Experience following operating procedures, safety requirements, permits, or standard work practices in an industrial environment.


* Ability to be clean shaven and fit tested to wear a respirator as required.

Physical Requirements



* Ability to squat, bend, and lift up to 50 pounds.


* Ability to stand for up to 10 hours in a ...