Associate Pilot Plant Operator

Associate Pilot Plant Operator

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Polymer Engineering Pilot Center (PEPC) provides advanced research and testing technologies for product and process development, continuing to leverage Firestone's rich industry heritage to provide outstanding product quality and develop polymers for next‑generation applications. The plant is located on a 35‑acre site and produces MT quantities of baled products for testing. Our polymer engineering facilities in Akron work closely with Bridgestone's global facilities to develop the latest in tire polymer technologies.

We are a part of the Akron Complex and participate in all Akron‑based community activities.

Business Unit BSA – Product Development

Job Category Engineering & Science

Position Summary As a Pilot Plant Operator at the Bridgestone Polymer Engineering Pilot Center you will play an integral role in assisting with new product development and plant improvement/support projects (quality, cost savings initiatives, etc.). The Pilot Center Operator interfaces with Chemists/Engineers to transition new polymers from the lab to the production plant. The Technician will observe product/process characteristics and complete documentation per established guidelines and policies.

The schedule for this position is 6pm-6am M-W and 4pm-midnight on Thursday.

• Follow procedures to safely and efficiently operate process equipment including reactors, pumps, and other equipment related to the operation
• Involvement in all aspects of operations including raw material charging, vessel operation, finishing and testing
• Prepare, charge and monitor polymerization in batch and continuous reactors
• Effectively communicate polymerization results, observations and discrepancies to the operations supervisor as well as engineers and chemists
• Operate process control system (Siemens PCS7)
• Identify opportunities for improvement within the Pilot Facility
• Perform in‑process testing
• Follow safe work practices and support safety goals/objectives
• Assist in the development of new processes and establishing procedures

• Minimum high school diploma or equivalent
• Attention to detail
• Ability to function effectively in a team environment and work independently as needed
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to solve problems effectively and multitask
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including respirator
• Motivation to learn new tasks, concepts, applications and processes
• Basic computer knowledge as well as a working knowledge of MS Office
• Must be flexible in work duties and hours, since the position involves shift work and overtime

• Prior chemical plant experience preferred
• Prior analytical testing experience preferred
• An effective working knowledge of chemical facility operations
• Must be able to work safely with a general knowledge of workplace hazards, safety procedures, and plant safety matters
• Ability to lift up to 70 lbs. and have the physical strength and ability to perform moderate to heavy manual labor when necessary

• A supportive and engaging onboarding experience to ensure a smooth transition into our team.
• The opportunity to develop and grow, through training and regular mentorship.
• Corporate Social Responsibility activities.
• A truly global, dynamic and challenging work environment.
• Agility and work/life effectiveness and your long‑term well‑being.
• A diverse and inclusive team.

Bridgestone is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. It is our policy to consider for employment all individuals regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

If hired, a Form I‑9 Employment Eligibility Verification must be completed at the start of employment. Temporary work authorization or the need for sponsorship may disqualify you from employment.