Subject Matter Expert; SME), Cold Side - Ethylene Production

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Full Time Operations Westlake, LA, US

2 days ago Requisition

This position acts as a Subject Matter Expert (“SME”) for the “cold side” of the ethylene production process. It provides critical field-based support for the optimized performance of the Cold Side of the Ethane Cracker Unit (ECU), where high-temperature cracked gases are rapidly cooled and separated into high-purity ethylene and various byproducts.

• Functions as Subject Matter Expert for Plant Cold Side operations; focuses on monitoring, troubleshooting and advising on equipment performance and overall system health
• Conducts routine field assessments of equipment and processes; supports and monitors cold side operations
• Oversees charge gas and refrigeration compressors; maintains proper suction/discharge pressures
• Controls interstage temperatures via intercoolers
• Balances compressor loads; avoids liquid carryover to compressors
• Ensures smooth cycling between absorption, regen, cool-down, and standby modes for molecular sieve charge gas dryers; prevents fluidization and dusting using flow switching
• Ensures zero moisture/hydrocarbons before entry; maintains balanced flows and pressures in heat exchangers; stabilizes turbo expander operation
• Controls column pressure; handles reboiler and reflux ratio; manages hydraulic loading
• Optimizes plant performance; maximizes yields
• Supports safe execution of cold-side startups, shutdowns, and turnarounds
• Troubleshoots and resolves process and/or equipment issues impacting operations
• Coordinates with maintenance teams on preventive and corrective maintenance activities
• Communicates regularly with control room operators, field technicians, and supervision to maintain alignment and situational awareness
• Supports or leads incident investigations; drives timely corrective actions
• Mentors and trains operations staff on cold side processes, troubleshooting, and safety practices
• Assists with P&, pre-job planning, and verification activities for critical tasks
• Participates in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs), HAZOP reviews, and Management of Change (MOC) processes
• Coordinates with Hot Side and Utilities Specialists; ensures smooth, integrated plant operations
• Ensures proper application of field safety procedures including LOTO, hot work permits, and confined space entry; complies with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements (e.g., PSM, OSHA, EPA)
• Abides by all safety procedures and practices applicable to location and position; participates in appropriate safety training; demonstrates commitment to and support of EHSS principles and values; champions safety at all times; participates in and/or leads safety teams or projects as appropriate
• Performs other duties assigned by management that generally fall within the expected scope of this position

Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions. It does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

• Minimum of 10 years’ operations experience in petrochemical or similar industrial environment
• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems; experience with industrial heater exchangers, tubing, pumps, and rotating and stationary equipment generally used in plant operations
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve operational issues quickly and effectively
• Proven skills in manufacturing
• Extensive knowledge of operations processes and requirements
• Familiarity with concepts, practices and procedures used in plant environment
• Knowledge and understanding of EHS regulations and standards; experience with and knowledge of EHS requirements at assigned site
• Excellent analysis skills required
• Experience with emergency situations; demonstrated ability to adjust to special situations
• Ability to multi-task and follow through on assignments
• Good computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite;…