Pilot Plant Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Pilot Plant Operator / Decommissioning Technician

Job Summary

This role supports the decommissioning and teardown of pilot plants, including rigging activities where applicable. Following decommissioning, the position transitions into a Pilot Plant Operator role responsible for all operational aspects of the plant during assigned shifts. This includes ensuring safe, efficient startup, operation, and shutdown of chemical plant equipment from the control room, as well as supporting field operations.

Key Responsibilities

Decommissioning Phase

• Assist with decommissioning and teardown of pilot plants
• Perform rigging activities (preferred experience)

Operations Phase

• Operate and monitor pilot plant systems from the control room
• Ensure safe and efficient startup, operation, and shutdown of plant equipment
• Oversee personnel, equipment, and safety during assigned shifts
• Direct Field Operators during startup, operation, shutdown, and abnormal situations
• Monitor and record plant operating parameters; make adjustments as needed
• Detect faulty equipment, diagnose issues, and take corrective action
• Monitor air and water emissions and maintain within acceptable limits
• Notify shift advisor or plant management of abnormal conditions immediately
• Provide regular status reports to shift supervisor and/or plant management
• Ensure thorough shift turnover, including review of logs and operating conditions

Maintenance & Safety

• Perform equipment isolation in accordance with lockout/tagout procedures
• Open, lock, and tag equipment for maintenance activities
• Conduct tests on critical safety systems as directed
• Identify, troubleshoot, and correct potential operational or safety issues
• Maintain a clean and orderly work area
• Participate in safety meetings, training, and scheduled activities
• Assist in training site staff
• Perform minor maintenance during scheduled and unscheduled outages

General Duties

• Support plant improvement projects and third-party activities
• Safely operate a vehicle on site as required
• Perform other duties as assigned by shift supervisor or plant management

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 5+ years of industry experience
• Knowledge of mechanical, instrumentation, and electrical equipment
• Demonstrated understanding of chemical or process demonstration unit operations
• Ability to make sound decisions in emergency situations
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to follow policies, procedures, and instructions
• Knowledge of equipment isolation and tagging procedures
• Thorough understanding of plant safety equipment and its proper use
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent teamwork, leadership, and organizational skills
• Experience operating a process demonstration unit preferred
• Basic computer skills (Excel and Word)

Work Schedule

• Standard hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Must be available for shift work (24/7 operations)

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Work performed in lab, plant, or high-bay environments
• Requires standing, walking, climbing stairs and ladders
• Work performed both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Worksites span approximately 1,500 acres; walking between locations required
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted or assisted
• Must wear steel-toe shoes

Additional Requirements

• Must submit to a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check
• Position is classified as safety-sensitive
• Dress code: collared shirt and jeans

Join the Cross Resource Group Team!

At Cross Resource Group, we value our employees and are dedicated to providing a rewarding and inclusive work environment. We are proud to offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package to meet the diverse needs of our team.

Employee Benefits Include:

Healthcare Insurance: Comprehensive coverage to ensure access to quality healthcare.

Dental Insurance: Robust coverage for optimal oral health.

Vision Insurance: Regular exams and corrective lenses covered.

Disability Insurance: Short and long-term coverage protecting against loss of income due to illness or injury.

Life Insurance: Providing financial security and peace of mind for our employees and their loved ones.

Why Choose Us?