Chemical Operator Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Shift Lead is responsible for leading and coordinating all production activities during an assigned shift to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the manufacturing facility. This position supervises plant operations, monitors production processes through the Distributed Control System (DCS), coordinates shift personnel, and serves as the primary operational leader during off-hours and emergency situations.

The Shift Lead ensures compliance with ANSA McAL Group policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Safety and Operational Control Limits (SOCLs), and all applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations while maintaining production targets and product quality.

• Supervise and coordinate all plant operations during the assigned shift to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable production.
• Monitor production processes and equipment to maintain operational performance and product quality.
• Operate and monitor the Distributed Control System (DCS), making necessary adjustments to tank levels, pumps, agitators, valves, and other process equipment to optimize production.
• Ensure all production activities are performed in accordance with established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Safety and Operational Control Limits (SOCLs).
• Coordinate safe plant start-ups, shutdowns, and process changes with Engineering and Operations teams.
• Assist the Plant Manager with special projects and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Provide day-to-day leadership and direction to production employees during the assigned shift.
• Conduct thorough shift handovers to ensure effective communication of operational status, outstanding issues, and production priorities.
• Coordinate shift schedules, vacation coverage, and employee absences to maintain adequate staffing levels.
• Ensure all assigned work is completed accurately, safely, and within established timeframes.
• Deliver shift communications, company announcements, and operational updates to team members.
• Support employee development by providing on-the-job coaching and coordinating training activities.

• Promote and enforce a strong safety culture by ensuring compliance with company safety policies and regulatory requirements.
• Serve as the primary point of contact during emergencies, including employee injuries, equipment incidents, spills, and process upsets until management arrives.
• Initiate immediate actions to contain and mitigate spills or incidents while ensuring appropriate reporting and preliminary investigations are completed.
• Participate in safety audits, emergency response activities, and continuous improvement of safe work practices.

• Partner with Engineering to troubleshoot production issues and improve plant reliability.
• Assist with the development, review, and revision of Standard Operating Procedures and best practices.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance production performance.
• Communicate equipment concerns and operational trends to Engineering and Maintenance to minimize downtime.

• Complete and review operating logs, production reports, and shift documentation accurately and on time.
• Ensure all operational records support regulatory compliance, quality standards, and audit readiness.
• Monitor production metrics and operating conditions, identifying abnormalities and implementing corrective actions when appropriate.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical training, trade certification, or post-secondary education in an industrial, manufacturing, or process-related field is preferred.

• Previous experience in a chemical manufacturing, industrial manufacturing, or continuous process environment preferred.
• Prior leadership or shift supervision experience is highly desirable.
• Experience operating process equipment and Distributed Control Systems (DCS) preferred.

• Strong understanding of industrial manufacturing processes and equipment.
• Mechanical aptitude with the ability to troubleshoot routine equipment issues.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations involving weights, volumes, pressures, concentrations, and specific gravity.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow detailed written and verbal instructions.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced environment.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency using computers and process monitoring systems.

Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to safety by enforcing safe work practices, identifying hazards, ensuring regulatory compliance, and responding effectively during emergencies.

Maintains efficient plant operations by optimizing processes, minimizing downtime, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

Provides clear direction, promotes teamwork, communicates effectively across shifts, and fosters accountability within the operations team.

Applies sound judgment to diagnose operational issues, make process adjustments, and coordinate with Maintenance and Engineering to resolve complex problems.

Maintains accurate production records, ensures compliance with operational procedures, and supports quality and regulatory requirements through complete documentation.

Actively seeks opportunities to improve operational performance, develop technical knowledge, and support the growth and development of team members.