Process Operator 3

The Position

AIRCO is seeking a Process Operator to support the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of our New Britain, PA production facility.. 

Operator III is the entry, qualified-operator level in AIRCO's three-level operator progression: Operator III → Operator Technician II → Lead Operator Technician I. 

This is a safety-critical, non-exempt, shift-based role in a 24/7 operating environment. The role is responsible for operating assigned process systems, monitoring equipment and process conditions, responding to alarms and deviations, maintaining accurate records, and supporting safe production uptime.

Maintenance work at this level is performed under supervision unless the employee has been trained, qualified, and authorized to perform the task.

What You Get to Do

• Operate assigned process equipment according to SOPs, operating instructions, and supervisor direction.
• Monitor process conditions using control systems, field instruments, alarms, gauges, flowmeters, pressure indicators, temperature indicators, and other operating data.
• Perform routine rounds, collect samples, inspect equipment, and identify leaks, abnormal readings, equipment issues, unsafe conditions, or process deviations.
• Safely handle hazardous chemicals, compressed gases, cylinders, gas and liquid feeds, process materials, and related equipment.
• Respond to alarms, deviations, shutdowns, and emergency situations in accordance with SOPs, training, and supervisor direction.
• Record accurate operating data, shift notes, batch/run information, open issues, and follow-up items.
• Conduct clear shift handovers and escalate equipment issues, process concerns, safety risks, and maintenance needs.
• Support basic troubleshooting, tubing/piping work, installs, modifications, and return-to-service activities under approved direction when trained and authorized.
• Read unit P&IDs and process documentation to support safe operation, troubleshooting, and line-up verification.
• Complete required training and maintain site-specific operator qualifications and task-specific authorizations.

What You Bring to AIRCO

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Technical certificate, associate degree, military technical training, process technology training, or equivalent industrial experience preferred.
• Experience in chemical processing, petrochemical, refining, pharmaceutical manufacturing, industrial gas, hydrogen systems, pilot plant operations, or similar process operations preferred.
• Ability to read and follow SOPs, safety procedures, operating instructions, P&IDs, and process documentation.
• Strong safety mindset, attention to detail, and ability to recognize abnormal conditions and escalate concerns.
• Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.
• Ability to work in loud indoor/outdoor industrial environments around chemicals, compressed gases, pressure systems, rotating equipment, elevated temperatures, and industrial equipment.
• Ability to wear required PPE and lift up to 50 pounds, climb stairs/ladders, stand and walk for extended periods, bend, reach, and perform physical tasks associated with plant/production facility operations.

Bonus Points

• Experience in a production facility, pilot plant, startup, R&D, turnaround, commissioning, startup/shutdown, or return-to-service environments.
• Hands-on experience with pumps, valves, compressors, reactors, pressure systems, tubing, Swagelok fittings, control systems, instrumentation, or hazardous materials.
• Experience with routine rounds, sample collection, alarm response, batch/run logs, P&IDs, process flow diagrams, or equipment documentation.
• Experience with lockout/tagout, hazard communication, permit-to-work, line-breaking, powered industrial trucks, emergency response, OSHA training, HAZWOPER, First Aid/CPR/AED, or similar industrial safety training.

Working at AIRCO - In addition to standard medical and dental benefits, that kick in Day 1, we provide:

Comprehensive Health Benefits

• Full coverage for employee base premiums on health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 70% coverage for spouse and dependent base premiums.
• Choose between base plans or enhanced options to meet your needs.

Health Savings & Flexibility

• Access company-sponsored HSA and FSA accounts to save on healthcare and dependent care expenses.

Income Protection & Insurance

• Company-paid Short-Term Disability insurance.
• Optional Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance plans.

Time Off & Holidays

• Up to 184 hours of paid time off per year, with opportunities to carry over unused PTO.
• 11 company-paid holidays, with 8 hours of holiday pay for each holiday. Employees who work on a company holiday also receive premium pay for all hours worked.