Lead Quality Operator Technician

Airgas, an Air Liquide company, is a leading U.S. supplier of industrial, medical and specialty gases, as well as hardgoods and related products; one of the largest U.S. suppliers of safety products; and a leading U.S. supplier of ammonia products and process chemicals. Through the passion and diversity of its 18,000 associates, Airgas fosters a culture of safety, customer success, sustainability and innovation. Airgas associates are empowered to share ideas, take initiative and make decisions. 

Airgas is a subsidiary of Air Liquide, a world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and healthcare. Present in 60 countries with approximately 66,500 employees, Air Liquide serves more than 4 million customers and patients.

Join us for a stimulating experience: At Airgas, you matter and so does the work you do. As a member of our team, you play an important role in the success of your team, making sure our products are created sustainably and delivered safely and efficiently. In turn, you’ll find a welcoming workplace where you’re valued for who you are and where you can fill your potential while growing a fulfilling career — whatever path you choose.

How will you CONTRIBUTE and GROW?

LOQT Lead operator and quality technician

Lead operator of an Air Separation Unit (ASU) is responsible for the overall safe, reliable, and efficient operation of a plant that separates atmospheric air into gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and argon. This role combines the hands-on duties of a plant operator with leadership responsibilities, including coordinating the work of other operators and overseeing shift activities. 

Core duties and responsibilities

• Safety and environmental compliance: Enforcing and promoting all safety, health, and environmental policies and procedures. This includes managing work permits, conducting safety audits, and investigating incidents.
• Supervision and leadership: Leading, coordinating, and providing direction to a team of plant operators during a shift. This involves organizing daily tasks, monitoring performance, and fostering the development of team members.
• Process control and monitoring: Operating and monitoring the plant's distributed control system (DCS) to manage and adjust critical process parameters such as flow rates, temperatures, and pressures.
• Troubleshooting and maintenance: Diagnosing and resolving operational issues with mechanical, electrical, and control systems. The lead operator also coordinates with maintenance personnel to address more complex equipment issues and perform routine upkeep.
• Performance reporting: Maintaining accurate production and safety records, including shift logs, and communicating operational data and test results to supervisors and other departments.
• Startup and shutdown procedures: Safely executing the startup and shutdown sequences for the ASU and related equipment.
• Quality control: Monitoring and performing tests to ensure the purity of the final gas products meets quality standards and customer specifications.
• Logistics: Coordinating the loading and unloading of transportation trucks and managing product storage levels.

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Are you a MATCH?

• Education and experience: A high school diploma or equivalent is required, with additional vocational or technical training often preferred. A minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in a manufacturing or chemical plant, particularly within air separation, is typically required.
• Technical knowledge: Strong understanding of industrial process control systems, safety protocols, and mechanical equipment, such as compressors, pumps, and valves. Experience with DCS and PLC systems is essential.
• Leadership skills: The ability to lead and coordinate a team effectively, communicate clearly, and make quick, informed decisions under pressure.
• Physical capabilities: The role requires the physical ability to climb stairs and ladders, work in extreme outdoor weather, and wear personal protective equipment in a noisy industrial environment.
• Problem-solving abilities: Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills to resolve issues and optimize plant efficiency. 

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Benefits