Chemical Plant Operator

Ascend Elements® is revolutionizing the production of lithium-ion battery materials by establishing a clean and sustainable supply chain using recycled feedstock. Its patented Hydro-to-Cathode™ technology directly synthesizes new cathode materials from spent lithium-ion cells more efficiently than traditional methods, resulting in reduced cost, improved performance, and lowered greenhouse gas emissions. The results are lower cost, better performing batteries, a cleaner manufacturing process, and a truly sustainable closed-loop circular battery economy. This closed-loop process also allows for fewer end-of-life batteries being discarded in landfills. Ascend Elements is taking the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.

Job Summary: The Lithium Ion Leaching Chemical Plant Operator is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the lithium ion leaching process, ensuring the safe and efficient production of lithium compounds. This role involves monitoring equipment, adjusting controls, and adhering to safety and environmental regulations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operate and monitor reactors, pressure vessels, boilers, and distillation columns.
• Adjust controls and equipment to regulate temperature, pressure, and flow rate, and manage chemical reactions.
• Conduct routine inspections of equipment and systems to detect malfunctions and perform necessary maintenance.
• Test samples of raw materials or finished products to ensure they meet quality and safety standards.
• Record data from operations, process conditions, and laboratory results for production logs and compliance reports.
• Collaborate with team members such as chemists, engineers, and quality control specialists to optimize production efficiency and safety.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment by following all safety protocols and procedures.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and perform preventive maintenance.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Be committed to and support the EHS management process to obtain the ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certification as well as participate in system standards and practices in its compliance and commitment to policies, objectives, operational controls, documentation, system guidelines, and others that the organization subscribes to as mandatory.
• Will participate in all EHS aspects, including reporting hazards, incidents, and injury/illness without fear of reprisal.
• Attend an Environment, Health, and Safety Orientation program appropriate to their work environment.
• Follow 6S step-by-step methodology to maintain orderly workspaces and resources thereby enhancing productivity and safety.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; associate degree in chemical technology or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 1 year experience in an industrial environment, preferably in chemical processing.
• Strong technical skills, including the ability to operate machinery, read technical diagrams, and use computer systems for monitoring processes.
• Certification from relevant industry bodies (e.g., Certified Control Systems Technician) is a plus.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in environments with exposure to heat, cold, fumes, chemicals, and loud noise.
• Ability to perform physical tasks such as climbing stair and ladders, lifting, bending, walking, and standing for extended periods.
• Capable of wearing task specific personal protective equipment which may include dust mask, air purifying respirator (i.e., half and/or full faced), safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection.
• Capable of meeting OSHA standards for manual lifting guidelines: < 50lbs
• While performing the duties of this job it is required to stand, walk, and use hands to operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands or arms; climb, balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch when necessary for job activity.
• Ability to operate mobile equipment safely.

Working Conditions:

• Work environments include inside and outside manufacturing and production facilities.
• Exposure to uneven ground, long-distance transit over rough terrain, and moving heavy machinery.

Job Type: Full-time

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Ascend Elements is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.