Board Operator

Long Description

Stepan Company is seeking a safety-focused, detail-oriented Board Operator to join our Pasadena manufacturing team. This role is responsible for safely monitoring and controlling chemical manufacturing processes through the Honeywell Distributed Control System (DCS) to ensure efficient, reliable, and compliant plant operations.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in maintaining production, responding to process upsets, coordinating with field operators, and supporting safe plant operations while upholding Stepan’s commitment to Responsible Care® and ISO 9001 Quality Management System requirements.

Primary Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor plant processes using the Honeywell Distributed Control System (DCS)


• Monitor process conditions and make operating adjustments to maintain safe, efficient, and compliant production


• Analyze process alarms and respond appropriately to equipment or process deviations


• Coordinate closely with field operators during routine operations, startups, shutdowns, and emergencies


• Ensure compliance with all environmental, health, safety, quality, and regulatory requirements


• Maintain accurate operating logs, production records, and shift documentation in accordance with ISO 9001 standards


• Participate in detailed shift handoffs to ensure operational continuity


• Support troubleshooting efforts with Operations, Engineering, Maintenance, and EH&S


• Assist with plant startups, shutdowns, and emergency response activities


• Support Stepan’s Responsible Care® principles by protecting employees, the community, customers, and the environment through safe operating practices


• Comply with all applicable ISO 9001 Quality Management System procedures, work instructions, and documentation requirements


• Cross-train in additional operating areas as needed


• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required


• Minimum of three (3) years of experience operating a Honeywell Distributed Control System (DCS) in a chemical manufacturing environment


• Previous experience as a Board Operator or Process Operator in a continuous chemical processing facility


• Ability to work a 12-hour rotating DuPont schedule, including days, nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as required


• Strong understanding of process safety principles and operating procedures


• Ability to read and interpret operating procedures, P&IDs, and process documentation


• Strong communication, troubleshooting, and decision-making skills


• Computer proficiency and experience with electronic operating logs

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in alkoxylation, surfactant, or specialty chemical manufacturing


• Experience supporting process startups and shutdowns


• Knowledge of OSHA Process Safety Management (PSM)


• Familiarity with Responsible Care® and ISO 9001 quality systems

Education

High School Diploma