Chemical Operator
University Park, IL
Full Time
Entry Level
Produce Safely. Support Operations. Deliver Quality.
Verdant Specialty Solutions is seeking a Chemical Operator to join our Production team in University Park, Illinois. This role is responsible for safely handling materials, operating production and packaging equipment, supporting manufacturing operations, and ensuring products are produced and packaged according to quality, safety, and operational standards.This is an on-site position working 12-hour rotating shifts, with day and night schedules rotating monthly.
Why This Role Is a Fit for You:
Be Part of the Production Process: Support the manufacturing and packaging of specialty chemical products while helping ensure safe and efficient plant operations.
Hands-On Work Environment: Operate production equipment, forklifts, and material handling systems while working directly with products and materials.
Safety & Quality Focus: Help maintain the highest standards of safety, environmental compliance, and product quality.
Collaborative Team Culture: Work closely with production, maintenance, engineering, and leadership teams to achieve operational goals.
Growth & Development: Join a company committed to operational excellence, continuous improvement, and employee development.
What You'll Do:
- Fill drums and totes and ensure products are labeled accurately.
- Print batch sheets, packaging records, and other production documentation using company systems.
- Enter production and packaging information accurately into company software.
- Transport raw materials and finished products using forklifts and other material handling equipment.
- Transfer materials safely through pipelines and hoses.
- Operate flaking equipment and other production equipment according to established procedures.
- Collect product samples as trained.
- Clean production equipment and perform basic maintenance activities.
- Maintain housekeeping and Lean Manufacturing standards throughout the facility.
- Track and support performance goals related to safety, quality, and productivity.
- Identify equipment issues and initiate maintenance work requests as needed.
- Follow all standard operating procedures, safety requirements, and company policies.
- Collaborate with supervisors, operators, engineers, and maintenance personnel to support plant operations and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
- Ability to follow procedures, safety requirements, and work instructions.
- Basic mathematical skills for weights, volumes, and measurements.
- Strong communication and teamwork skills.
- Ability to identify and escalate quality, safety, or operational concerns.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
- Commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and efficient work environment.
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a manufacturing, laboratory, or chemical production environment preferred.
- Chemical manufacturing or industrial laboratory experience strongly preferred.
- Experience working within a quality management system (ISO 9001 or similar) preferred.
- Forklift experience preferred.
- Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office applications.
Verdant Specialty Solutions is a global specialty chemicals manufacturer combining innovation, agility, and operational excellence. With operations across the United States and Europe, we bring functional chemistry to life—safely, reliably, and responsibly.
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