Process Plant Operator

As a Process Plant Operator, you’ll be at the forefront of industrial production, managing sophisticated equipment that transforms raw materials into valuable products. Your role is critical in industries such as chemical manufacturing, petrochemicals, hydrocarbons, and metal/ore processing. You’ll monitor and control complex systems, adjust production parameters, troubleshoot issues, and ensure adherence to strict safety and quality standards.

In this position, you’ll operate a wide range of equipment including reactors, distillation columns, compressors, and control systems. You’ll be responsible for maintaining optimal production efficiency, product quality, and workplace safety. Your day-to-day tasks will involve monitoring gauges, meters, and instrumentation, making necessary adjustments to keep processes within specified parameters.

Your expertise will be crucial in interpreting complex process data, identifying potential issues before they escalate, and taking corrective actions. You’ll work closely with engineers, maintenance teams, and other operators to ensure smooth plant operations. As a Process Plant Operator, you’ll also play a key role in implementing and maintaining safety protocols, environmental regulations, and quality control procedures.

Your role may include duties as follows: 

1. Operate and monitor complex process equipment and control systems
2. Control process parameters such as temperature, pressure, and flow rates
3. Perform regular quality checks on raw materials, in-process materials, and finished products
4. Respond to and troubleshoot process deviations and equipment malfunctions
5. Maintain accurate logs of production data, equipment performance, and incidents
6. Implement safety procedures and participate in safety drills and training and ensure compliance with environmental regulations and company policies

To become a Process Plant Operator, you typically need to complete a Certificate II in Process Plant Operations (PMA20116).

This qualification is designed for operators in the hydrocarbons, petrochemical, chemical, metal/ore processing, and related process manufacturing industries.

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