Job Title: Chemical OperatorJob DescriptionThe Chemical Operator will work in a scale-up facility and pilot plant, performing safe, precise, hands-on execution of experimental pilot runs, chemical batch processing, and unit operations. The role focuses on translating chemical formulations into robust, scalable industrial processes while maintaining strict safety standards, equipment integrity, and accurate process data. The Chemical Operator will collaborate closely with chemical engineers and scientists to scale up and improve zeolite modification formulations and processes, troubleshoot process deviations, and maintain a highly organized, inspection-ready working environment.

Responsibilities

Execute experimental pilot runs, chemical batch processing, and unit operations in a scale-up facility with a strong focus on safety, accuracy, and consistency.
Perform downstream chemical treatments to modify zeolite properties, including ion exchange cycles and acid or alkali treatments, in accordance with defined process parameters.
Operate and monitor mix tanks, slurry filtration systems, and filter presses to support filtration and high-temperature calcination activities.
Support high-temperature calcination processes by preparing materials, monitoring operating conditions, and ensuring proper handling of equipment and products.
Perform basic mechanical troubleshooting on process equipment, identifying abnormal operating conditions and taking appropriate corrective actions or escalating issues with clear diagnostic information.
Carry out system cleanings and turnarounds, including flushing, washing, and preparing equipment for subsequent runs, to maintain equipment integrity and process reliability.
Make minor equipment adjustments using hand tools to maintain optimal operation of mixing, filtration, and related process equipment.
Use a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to submit samples for analysis, track sample status, and maintain detailed and accurate records of experiments and process runs.
Document process conditions, deviations, observations, and results clearly and consistently to support process development, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.
Maintain an inspection-ready workspace, including organizing tools, equipment, and materials, and ensuring that all work areas remain clean and orderly.
Manage chemical inventory by tracking usage, labeling containers, and ensuring that chemicals are stored and handled in accordance with established procedures.
Handle and dispose of chemical waste in compliance with environmental requirements and internal procedures, ensuring proper segregation, labeling, and documentation.
Follow all laboratory and pilot plant safety procedures, including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment, adherence to standard operating procedures, and compliance with health, safety, and environmental policies.
Recognize abnormal process or equipment conditions, determine likely causes, and either correct issues safely or escalate them with useful diagnostic information to engineers or supervisors.
Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and other team members to support process scale-up, optimization, and troubleshooting activities.
Engage proactively in problem-solving discussions and contribute observations and ideas to improve process robustness, safety, and efficiency.

Essential Skills

At least 4 years of experience as a chemical operator, preferably with specific exposure to catalyst manufacturing and powder handling.
Proven experience handling concentrated acids and bases, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), and hazardous organic templates in a safe and controlled manner.
Technical proficiency in executing ion exchange cycles and performing acid and base treatment processes in a production or pilot plant environment.
Hands-on experience operating mixing equipment, slurry filtration systems, and filter presses used in chemical processing.
Ability to perform basic mechanical troubleshooting on process equipment, including identifying abnormal operating conditions and implementing safe corrective actions.
Experience conducting system cleanings and turnarounds to prepare equipment for subsequent runs and maintain process reliability.
Capability to perform minor equipment adjustments using hand tools to maintain proper operation of process equipment.
Ability to use a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to submit samples, track analyses, and maintain detailed experimental records.
Strong attention to detail in maintaining accurate process data, logs, and documentation.
Demonstrated commitment to following health, safety, and environmental procedures in laboratory and pilot plant settings.
Ability to recognize when a process or piece of equipment is operating abnormally and to respond appropriately through troubleshooting or escalation.
Strong organizational skills to maintain an inspection-ready workspace and manage chemical inventory effectively.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Experience working in catalyst manufacturing environments, including handling powders and solid materials in process equipment.
Demonstrated ability to describe troubleshooting scenarios clearly, including the problem encountered, diagnostic steps taken, corrective actions implemented, and final results.
Comfort working closely with engineers and scientists in a collaborative process development or scale-up environment.
Interest in going beyond basic batching work to engage in more in-depth process understanding, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.
Experience managing chemical waste disposal in alignment with environmental requirements and internal procedures.
Familiarity with standard operating procedures and the ability to identify when processes deviate from expected conditions.

Work EnvironmentThe Chemical Operator will work primarily in a scale-up laboratory located within a main research and development building, as well as in a pilot plant environment. The role involves hands-on work with chemical processes, including zeolite modification, mixing, filtration, and high-temperature calcination. The setting includes operation of mix tanks, slurry filtration systems, filter presses, and other pilot-scale equipment, supported by the use of a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for sample tracking and data management.

The work environment emphasizes strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental procedures, including proper handling of concentrated acids, bases, hazardous organic templates, and chemical waste. The facility expects an organized, inspection-ready workspace, with regular system cleanings and equipment turnarounds. The position requires comfort working in laboratory and pilot plant areas, including a lab located in the basement of a research building and time spent in a larger pilot plant setting.

Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Malvern, PA.

Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $24.00 - $25.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:

Medical, dental & vision

Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital

401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available

Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)

Short and long-term disability

Health Spending Account (HSA)

Transportation benefits

Employee Assistance Program

Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 4, 2026.

Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Malvern,PA.About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email [email protected] for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Chemical Operator @ Actalent

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