Process Technician – PTA Production

About the role

The Process Technician is responsible for monitoring, regulating, and operating complex chemical process equipment to produce Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) safely, efficiently, and in an environmentally responsible manner. This 24/7 operation works on rotating 12‑hour shifts at the Cooper River plant in Wando, SC.

Key responsibilities

• Start‑up, operate, and shut‑down the PTA process unit according to established procedures.
• Adjust equipment and process parameters to maintain safe and optimal operation.
• Troubleshoot abnormal process conditions and respond to DCS alarms.
• Collaborate with maintenance to diagnose and repair equipment and instrumentation.
• Collect process samples using proper PPE and sampling methods.
• Perform and verify energy isolations for equipment, vessels, and piping.
• Carry out minor maintenance tasks and valve operations.
• Maintain accurate production and safety records.
• Communicate effectively with team members and external partners.

Required profile

• High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent technical associate degree).
• At least 3 years of industrial/manufacturing experience, or 4 years of military experience.
• Passing scores on pre‑employment mechanical aptitude, reading, and mathematics tests.
• Ability to work in confined spaces, climb ladders, lift up to 50 lb, and use respirators.
• Willingness to work nights, weekends, holidays and be on call.
• Readiness to relocate or commute to the Cooper River plant without company assistance.

Required skills

• Distributive Control System (DCS) monitoring.
• Equipment troubleshooting.
• Instrumentation troubleshooting.
• Mechanical aptitude.
• Sample collection using PPE.
• Energy isolation procedures.