Production Technologist, Polymers

Responsibilities

Eastman recently announced the engineering and construction of a $1.3B molecular recycling facility at its location in Longview, Texas.  This facility consists of three distinct operating units, which will begin startup in late 2027 to early 2028.  The Production Technologist will join the team during the initial phases of engineering and construction and see the project through commissioning, startup, and normal operation.  

Production Technologists serve as the key operations leader and operational expert for the manufacturing area, setting the tone for operators in areas like safety, conduct of operations, operational discipline, etc.

Job Responsibilities During Engineering and Construction

•    Serve as the key operations contact for their unit for key project activities such as HAZOPs, model reviews, commissioning planning, etc.
•    Champions key operational readiness activities within the operating unit, including training and procedure development and delivery.
•    Leads the project team in ensuring the design is operable and maintainable when constructed.
•    Assists with the hiring and onboarding of all operations roles within the unit.
•    Learn the process at an expert level in preparation for startup and operation.
•    Serves as a key leader in the development and execution of the commissioning and startup plan for their unit.
•    20% travel may be required during engineering and construction.

Job Responsibilities After Startup

•    Sets the tone for safety in the operating unit, leading with a Zero Incident Mindset with zero tolerance for deviation from safety policies and procedures.
•    Is the lead operations role employee in the operating unit, providing direct leadership over the day shift operations employees and indirect leadership over all crew leaders and operators in the manufacturing area.
•    Ensure that the operating unit meets day to day production and quality targets, working with supply chain to plan and adjust as needed.
•    Oversees maintenance and work execution in the area, ensuring production needs are met while meeting budget.
•    Serves as the expert resource for operational knowledge and experience, and oversees key operating activities such as startup, and shutdown.
•    Manages the PSM and Mechanical Integrity programs for the unit, ensuring zero overdue items.
•    Leads and coordinates major shutdown work such as catalyst change-outs, equipment inspections, and other turnaround activities, including development over LOTO and cleanup plans.
•    Coordinates key life critical activities within the unit, including confined space, hot work, and other non-routine activities.
•    Fosters an environment where all employees relentlessly seek continuous learning and improvement.
•    Serves as the interface between Operations, Maintenance, Safety, and Supply Chain
•    No significant travel is expected after plant startup
 

Qualifications

•    Minimum 10 years’ operations experience in a chemical manufacturing facility preferred.
•    Minimum 2 years’ experience in manufacturing leadership at the crew leader level or higher.
•    Experience with direct supervision of front-line operations employees.
•    Demonstrated knowledge in execution of safety policies and programs such as LOTO, confined space, etc.
•    Strong communication skills and ability to coordinate between multiple different organizations.
•    Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.