Batch Reactor Operator Job Listing at Kelly Services in Freeport, TX (Job ID 10062378)

Description

Role Overview The Batch Reactor Operator is responsible for conducting batch reactor polymerization and performing polymer analytical testing on catalyst samples submitted to the Catalyst Advanced Research Lab. The goal is to deliver high-quality research data to support the Univation-PE Catalysis Research Business.
Key Responsibilities

• Batch Reactor Operations: Operate two 2-liter batch polymerization reactors under specified conditions to evaluate new research catalysts; complete six reactor runs per 12-hour shift.
• Instrumentation & Process Control: Input and adjust reactor settings via the process computer according to reaction recipes.
• Sample Handling: Use a nitrogen glovebox for safe storage and handling of air- and moisture-sensitive catalyst samples and chemicals.
• Troubleshooting: Identify and resolve process issues to ensure optimal reactor performance; consult with lab coordinator as needed.
• Documentation: Accurately record reaction data and final run values in Excel spreadsheets.
• Precision Measurement: Weigh catalyst and reactant samples to 0.1 mg using analytical balances and measure to 10 microliters using syringes.
• Safety Compliance: Complete daily process safety checklists and ensure adherence to RCRA waste packaging and disposal regulations.
• Polymer Sample Processing: Wash, prepare, and dry polymer samples; judge quality by appearance.
• Polymer Analysis: Perform bulk density measurements (ASTM Bulk Density Apparatus), additive weighing/mixing, and Melt Flow Index testing using six Tinius Olsen Melt Flow Indexers. Recognize and address sample impurities before testing.
• Particle Sizing: Conduct Malvern dry/wet method and Gradex polymer particle sizing analyses.
• Equipment Maintenance: Conduct routine maintenance for laboratory equipment, including presses, melt indexers, and blenders.
• Sample Preparation: Retrieve and prepare samples for advanced analytical tests such as DSC, GPC, Butyl Branch Frequency, and iCCD.
• Collaboration: Provide re-testing and sample add-ons for research campaigns as requested by chemists and engineers.
• Polymer Plaque Creation: Utilize hydraulic compression molding for density measurement.

Skills & Qualifications

• Technical Competence: Mechanical aptitude; troubleshooting and critical thinking skills; strong attention to detail.
• Computer Literacy: Proficient in Excel, Word, and laboratory software systems.
• Mathematical Ability: Able to perform solution dilutions, unit conversions, and molar ratio calculations.
• Chemical Safety: Demonstrated knowledge and safe handling practices of flammable and pyrophoric materials, including maintaining reagent integrity.
• Research Skills: Ability to research and interpret chemical properties (boiling point, flash point, molecular weight, etc.).
• Communication: Strong verbal and written skills, capable of interacting across all levels of the lab team.
• Accountability: Responsible for the quality and accuracy of generated data.
• Physical Requirements: Capable of heavy lifting up to 50 lbs.; must adhere to PPE requirements.

Minimum Requirements:

• Associate's degree in a technical field 

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. 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.

Why Kelly® Engineering?

Your engineering skills are in demand, but how do you find the right fit? Easy. At Kelly Engineering, our team creates expert talent solutions to solve the world's most critical challenges. We connect you with leading organizations where you can collaborate on innovative projects, work with cutting-edge technologies and accelerate your growth. Whether you prefer the variety and flexibility of short-term projects or are looking for a long-term opportunity, we're here to guide you to the next step in your engineering career.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we're obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it's about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It's the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It's the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life—just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.

Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California's state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

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