Manufacturing ​/ Production Operator, Chemical Manufacturing

Job Title:

Shift Operator – Biodiesel Plant

Location:

VSEZ, Duvvada, Visakhapatnam
Department:  Process/Production/Operation
Reporting To:  Shift In-Charge / Production Supervisor

Employment Type:

Full-time (Shift Basis)
Reporting To:  Shift In-Charge

Job Purpose:

To operate, monitor, and maintain various biodiesel production units and utility systems during the assigned shift, ensuring safe, efficient, and continuous plant operation in compliance with operational standards and safety protocols.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Plant Operation
Operate production equipment such as Bleacher, Deodorizer, reactors, heat exchangers, centrifuges, distillation columns, and pumps involved in biodiesel production.
Monitor process parameters (temperature, pressure, flow, level, pH, FFA, etc.) using local gauges or DCS/PLC systems.
Adjust valves, controls, and instrumentation to maintain steady operation.
Ensure smooth startup, shutdown, and changeover of the plant as per SOPs.
Ensure smooth running of the process during assigned shifts.
Adhere to 5S and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in the work area.

2. Raw Material & Chemical Handling
Safely handle and charge raw materials like vegetable oil, UCO (used cooking oil), methanol, catalyst (e.g., NaOH/KOH/HCl/Citric acid), and other chemicals into designated tanks or equipment.
Monitor consumption and report any abnormal usage or stock shortages.
3. Product Quality Monitoring
Collect routine samples from different process stages and coordinate with the QC team for testing.
Inform Shift In-Charge of any deviations in product quality or process performance.
4. Utilities Operation Support
Support operation of auxiliary equipment like boilers, cooling towers, air compressors, Chiller and water treatment systems, if required.
Support in preventive and routine maintenance activities in coordination with the maintenance team.
5. Safety & Housekeeping
Strictly follow all safety guidelines including PPE usage, chemical handling, and emergency procedures.
Participate in safety drills, tool-box talks, and risk assessments.
Maintain cleanliness and order in the operating area and report any leaks, spills, or unsafe conditions.
6. Record Keeping & Reporting
Maintain shift logs, flow meter readings, tank levels, and equipment status reports.
Assist in incident reporting and shift handover documentation.

Skills & Competencies

Required:

Basic knowledge of chemical or biodiesel plant operations.
Ability to read and understand process flow diagrams (PFDs) and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Awareness of safety, health, and environmental (SHE) practices.
Physical fitness and ability to work in a shift-based, field-oriented role.
Teamwork, attention to detail, and discipline.

Qualifications:

ITI / Diploma in Chemical, Mechanical, or relevant technical trade.
Minimum 3 years of experience in a chemical, petrochemical, or biodiesel plant.
Freshers with strong technical skills and willingness to work in field operations may also be considered.

Work Environment:
Rotational shift work (Morning/Evening/Night).
Field-based role requiring work in outdoor and process areas.
Exposure to chemical handling and mechanical systems.
Plant environment involving exposure to chemicals, heat, and equipment noise.
Ensure PPE usage in the Plant.