What is the role of a chemical operator?
Chemical operators are instrumental in ensuring the efficient and safe production of petroleum products and chemicals used in various oil and gas processes. As experts in operating chemical processing equipment, their primary responsibility is to handle the manufacturing and treatment processes while adhering to strict safety and quality protocols.
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Shift Supervisor
Location: Mississauga
Branche: Conventional Energy
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 5 years
Carries overall supervisory responsibilities for the on-shift operators, including performance management and capability development, scheduling, and effective administration of the Collective Bargaining Agreement Promotes safe, respectful behaviours and attitudes and ensures safety and environmental performance standards are met. Maintains Emergency Response capabilities of the Area Team and acts as the On Scene Commander for Emergency Response Leads and/or participates in Incident Investigations Monitors and optimizes operations for production, quality targets, and efficiency. Responsible to meet the production plan Assesses and manages risks associated with people, processes and equipment. Escalate risks where appropriate. Responds to community concerns/complaints and informs the appropriate regulatory body as required Facilitates communication within the plant. Communicates with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders, seeking assistance from other resources as required Special assignments or tasks assigned to the employee by their supervisor, as determined from time to time in their sole and complete discretion
Automation Engineer
Location: Greater Toronto Area
Branche: Pharmaceuticals
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 2 years
Maintain, troubleshoot, and repair automated systems, including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, robotics, and other control systems. Diagnose and resolve electrical, mechanical, and software-related issues to minimize downtime and maintain production efficiency. Perform regular calibration of sensors, instruments, and automated equipment to ensure accuracy and compliance with industry standards. Modify/optimize control programs to enhance process performance and production quality. Maintain accurate records of all maintenance activities, calibrations, and software changes. Ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), FDA, and other regulatory requirements by adhering to established protocols and guidelines for pharmaceutical industry standards. Identify opportunities to improve automation processes, enhance system reliability, and reduce operational costs. Collaborate with engineering teams to implement upgrades and modifications to systems. Work closely with production, quality assurance, and engineering teams to support manufacturing objectives. Provide training and guidance to operators and junior technicians on the proper use of automated systems. Strong knowledge of PLC programming and industrial automation systems. Experience with control system architecture, including SCADA, HMI interfaces, and networks Proficient in troubleshooting and repairing mechanical, electrical, and software components Familiarity with sensors, actuators, motors, VFDs, and servo systems. Ability to interpret technical drawings, P&IDs, and electrical schematics. Strong analytical and diagnostic skills to identify and resolve system inefficiencies. Proactive mindset with the ability to prioritize and manage tasks in a high-pressure situations
Administrative Assistant
Location: Red Deer
Branche: Conventional Energy
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 3 years
Introduction Brunel is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive TSP Administrative Assistant to support technical and administrative functions for a chemical manufacturing client located in Joffre, AB. This role requires strong organizational skills, technical expertise, and the ability to work independently while managing multiple responsibilities. Responsibilities Perform data integrity checks by validating and searching for information across various sources to ensure accuracy and completeness. Maintain databases, address linking issues, and digitize hard copy files to improve accessibility. Monitor project progress, follow up on outstanding items, and ensure timely completion. Create maintenance notifications for planning and scheduling purposes. Lead initiatives to enhance document control processes and improve workflow efficiency. Provide support to engineers, designers, and stakeholders on workflows and document management best practices. Manage project documents from creation through storage, ensuring proper organization and retention. Act as a liaison for project closeout activities, ensuring compliance with established procedures. Assist during scheduled unit turnarounds, providing necessary administrative support. Requirements High school diploma required, post-secondary education in Office Administration or related field preferred. Minimum of 3 years of experience in an office environment, preferably in engineering or manufacturing. Proficiency in systems such as SAP, SharePoint, and SPF. Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook). Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and within a team.
Business Development Manager
Location: Vancouver
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Marketing & Sales
Experience: 3 years
Develop and maintain a deep understanding of the region, industry, and customer needs and requirements Identify new regions for business development opportunities, performing market analysis for these regions to ensure the direction is aligned with the business and products and solutions being developed Manage sales prospects through to closure and monitor against approved budgets to ensure financial results are on, or ideally above, target and implement plans to counteract deviations Ability to organize, track and report on sales pipeline and progress updates Present and demonstrate the product range and associated benefits for customers Negotiate sales contracts and associated training and implementation milestones Identify, foster and leverage relationships with internal stakeholders, customers and industry contacts supporting the attainment of the goals for the business Work collaboratively with the Product Management team to provide insights into client and industry product requirements as well as potential developments which will set our client apart from its competitors Represent our client in industry events and tradeshows and collaborate with the Product Management & Marketing team, and Sales & Account Management teams to prepare for such events Other duties and responsibilities as required from time to time
What do chemical operators do?
Chemical operators are responsible for various tasks related to chemical processing and production. They carefully monitor and control chemical reactions, maintaining precise temperature, pressure, and other parameters to achieve desired outcomes and meet quality specifications. Safety is of utmost importance for chemical operators.
Before commencing their tasks, they conduct thorough inspections of the equipment to ensure proper functioning and promptly report any abnormalities or issues to the maintenance team. During chemical processing operations, they strictly adhere to safety protocols and guidelines, ensuring the safe handling of potentially hazardous materials and maintaining a secure worksite environment.
Chemical operators also collaborate closely with other team members, such as engineers and technicians, to achieve production targets and address any process-related challenges effectively. Effective communication is essential as they exchange information with colleagues regarding process adjustments, quality control, and maintenance requirements.
Beyond their core responsibilities in chemical processing, operators are also involved in basic equipment maintenance tasks. They regularly clean and lubricate the machinery to ensure optimal performance and extend its longevity.
Where do chemical operators work?
Chemical operators have diverse employment opportunities since they play a crucial role in the production and treatment of petroleum products and chemicals used in various oil and gas processes.
Common workplaces for chemical operators in the oil and gas industry include oil refineries, petrochemical plants, natural gas processing plants, offshore platforms, chemical injection facilities, pipelines and terminals, research and development laboratories, other specialized service providers. They may also work for government agencies involved in regulating the industry's safety and environmental standards.
Common chemical operator responsibilities:
Operate specialized chemical processing equipment skillfully to facilitate the production and treatment of petroleum products and chemicals;
Conduct thorough pre-operation inspections to ensure the equipment's proper functioning and promptly report any issues or abnormalities;
Adhere strictly to safety protocols and guidelines during equipment operation and chemical processes to mitigate potential hazards and maintain a safe work environment;
Collaborate effectively with team members, including engineers and technicians, to ensure smooth workflow and achieve production targets;
Perform basic maintenance tasks on the equipment, including regular cleaning, troubleshooting, and minor repairs;
Demonstrate precision and efficiency while handling chemical processes to optimize productivity and maintain product quality standards;
Monitor chemical reactions and processes, making real-time adjustments to maintain optimal operating conditions and meet quality specifications;
Record and document data related to production processes, ensuring accurate and comprehensive records are maintained for regulatory and quality control purposes;
Participate in the implementation of new chemical processes or improvements to existing processes, working closely with the technical team;
Comply with all relevant safety, environmental, and industry-specific regulations to ensure a safe and compliant work environment.
Qualifications for chemical operators:
To become a chemical operator in the oil and gas industry, candidates should have a high school diploma or equivalent. An advanced degree, such as an Associate’s degree or Bachelor’s degree, offers more job opportunities.
Many employers prefer candidates with prior experience in chemical manufacturing or operating chemical processes.
However, some companies offer on-the-job training for candidates with a strong technical aptitude and a keen interest in the oil and gas industry.
Other essential qualifications include:
- Basic understanding of chemical processes and equipment specific to the oil and gas sector;
- Strict adherence to safety protocols and guidelines, with a focus on handling potentially hazardous materials;
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to monitor and troubleshoot chemical processes effectively;
- Effective communication skills to collaborate with team members, engineers, and technicians;
- Physical fitness and stamina to meet the demands of the job, including the ability to work in challenging environments and weather conditions;
- Attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining quality and precision throughout the production and treatment processes.
