Sulfuric Acid Production Operator

Be the heartbeat of a continuous process operation

At Chemtrade, our Richmond, CA sulfuric acid plant runs around the clock. As a Sulfuric Acid Production Operator, you’ll keep the process moving safely and efficiently—working hands-on with pumps, valves, and transfer systems while supporting a culture centered on safety, teamwork, and inclusion.

Key Details

• Primary Location: Richmond, CA
• Schedule: 12-hour rotating shifts (day 7am–7pm; night 7pm–7am)
• Reports to: Operations Supervisor

Compensation

Compensation: $40.62/hr, non-exempt (fully qualified hourly rate, after training, $50.40/hr)

Hourly pay is based on role, level, and location. The posted rate reflects the starting rate for new hires; actual pay may vary by work location and factors such as job-related skills, experience, and relevant education/training. Location-specific factors will be discussed during the hiring process, and some facilities operate under Collective Bargaining Agreements. U.S. postings list hourly rate only and do not include benefits, pension contributions, overtime, or shift premiums.

A day in the life

You’ll begin your shift with a safety review, then move into field rounds and operations support. Outdoors in varying weather, you will climb stairs and ladders, operate equipment, and perform transfers—all while wearing appropriate PPE (including full-face respirators when required). Throughout the shift, you’ll coordinate with Acid and Shift Utility Operators, troubleshoot issues, and maintain accurate documentation.

What you’ll do

• Open, load, and unload tank trucks and railcars; connect/disconnect hoses and operate valves.
• Run and monitor pumps, piping systems, and other plant equipment; assist with general upkeep and maintenance.
• Troubleshoot operational/equipment problems and support other plant personnel as needed.
• Perform housekeeping and support tasks: cleaning, sweeping, tool room and warehouse inventory, trash removal, digging, weed spraying, shoveling.
• Serve as fire watch and as confined space hole attendant/entrant.
• Operate mobile equipment: backhoe, Trackmobile, forklifts, and other designated equipment.
• Replace nuts and bolts on pipe flanges from 1" up to 48" diameter.
• Follow all plant safety programs and procedures, including Confined Space, High Work, Management of Change, and Hot Work Operating Procedures.
• Maintain, inspect, and document PPE condition.

What you bring

• High school diploma or GED.
• Industrial plant experience performing similar work preferred.
• Mechanical aptitude and the ability to read/interpret safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, procedures, manufacturer literature, diagrams, and schematics.
• Comfort with computers and common tools (Microsoft applications, maintenance management systems, email).
• Ability to work a 12-hour rotating schedule and, when needed, 14–16 hour days for emergency operations/repairs.
• Capability to lift within OSHA guidelines, climb ladders/stairs, and work outdoors in heat or cold. Able to work in 100°ree;F ambient conditions while wearing acid-resistant PVC rain suit (coat, pants, rubber boots, gloves, face shield) and respirators.

Medical requirement

Chemtrade is committed to the safety and health of its employees and the public. All employees are required to complete and pass their annually held medical assessments, including but not limited to the Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) and the ability to wear a respirator as a condition of employment

Our culture: Embracing Diversity, Maximizing Results

People are at the center of everything we do. We recognize that diverse talents, ideas, and backgrounds drive better decisions and outcomes. We actively support Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) as platforms for connection and inclusion, and we celebrate multiple viewpoints to fuel innovation.

We’re committed to work-life balance and family-friendly benefits, and we provide opportunities for growth and advancement so you can thrive both professionally and personally. Join a team where you are respected, empowered, and encouraged to bring your whole self to work.

Learn more

Follow Chemtrade on LinkedIn or Facebook, and explore our work on YouTube: Chemtrade.