Production Operator

Job Description

Production Operator – Savannah, GA

Make a Positive Difference at Kraton!

At Kraton, we are dedicated to making a positive difference for our customers and the world, and we seek individuals who share this commitment. With manufacturing sites spanning four continents – North America, South America, Europe, and Asia – Kraton boasts an extensive global reach, ensuring quality service and reliable supply worldwide.

Our Specialty Pine Chemical Manufacturing Plant and Innovation Center in Savannah have been long-standing, established employers for over 50 years. We are actively seeking key team members for production positions within our Savannah, Georgia Manufacturing Plant. We prioritize making a positive difference, putting safety first, and championing our communities – because “We Care”!

About the Role

We are hiring entry-level Production Operators to join our manufacturing team in Savannah, Georgia. This role involves working in outdoor chemical process operations utilizing Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and other automated systems. You will perform diverse manual tasks and critical operational duties within a dynamic chemical manufacturing environment.

Compensation

• Starting Rate: $25.00 per hour
• Post-Qualification Raise: An additional $3.00 raise after achieving operator qualification.

Comprehensive and Competitive Benefit Package

Kraton offers an extensive range of benefits to support our employees and their families:

• Medical Insurance: Multiple plans available, including TelaDoc, with Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) options.
• Dental & Vision Insurance
• Health Advocate: Free support to help you understand your coverage and answer health-related questions.
• Life Insurance: Base coverage paid for by Kraton, with options for additional coverage.
• 401k: Kraton provides matching contributions based on enrollment level.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Provided at no cost to employees.
• Accident, Disability, and Critical Illness Insurance
• Optional Benefits: Child Care, Pet Care, Legal Assistance, and Identity Theft options also available.

Key Responsibilities

As an entry-level production employee, you will engage in a variety of tasks crucial to our operations:

• Perform diverse and manual tasks including production processes, housekeeping, drumming, and loading/unloading of trucks.
• Safely operate equipment to control chemical changes or reactions in the processing of Kraton products.
• Analyze information and evaluate results to choose the best solution and solve problems effectively.
• Adjust equipment control settings and accurately record data.
• Conduct process sampling and field analysis as required.
• Monitor processes and perform routine area surveillances to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
• Lubricate, clean, and perform routine maintenance on equipment.
• Prepare equipment for maintenance and inspect completed maintenance work alongside craft workers.
• Move raw and processed materials within the plant.
• Perform routine safety equipment checks and other audits.
• Operate and maintain packaging equipment.

Work Schedule: Rotational shifts including both 8 and 12-hour shifts, covering day and night shifts, some weekends, and some holidays.

Critical Physical Requirements

The role requires physical stamina and capability, including:

• Ability to generally lift 50 lbs. from floor to waist.
• Sitting, standing, walking, kneeling, stair climbing, and ladder climbing.
• Both hand manipulations.
• Operating heavy equipment which requires vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and auditory functions within normal ranges.

Required Skills

• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to effectively work as part of a shift team.
• Computer skills, including a working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook.
• Knowledge of machines and tools, with demonstrated mechanical ability preferred.
• Troubleshooting, ability to utilize critical thinking, sound decision making, and disciplined problem solving.

Education, Certifications & Licenses

• Required: High School Diploma or GED.
• Preferred: Chemical Operator certificate or degree.
• Preferred: 1-3 years of experience in chemical manufacturing.

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. Statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required for this position.

Kraton’s internal talent acquisition team manages our recruiting efforts and from time to time works with pre-selected/pre-approved external staffing agencies. We do NOT accept unsolicited resumes or candidate referrals from recruiters and/or agencies who are not pre-selected/pre-approved.

Kraton is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.