Catalyst / Laboratory Operator

Job Description

Job Description

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.

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Please note: The following benefits reflect Kelly's general offerings. Eligibility may vary by assignment, location, and job type. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

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