Entry Operator

Position Summary

This position assists in the day‑to‑day operations of the Natrium sodium bicarbonate manufacturing facility in Cortland, NY. This is an entry‑level role ideal for individuals who are hands‑on, eager to learn, and committed to working safely in a team‑based manufacturing environment.

The Entry Operator will support plant operations by operating process equipment, conducting routine process checks and tests, and making basic adjustments to operating conditions in accordance with established procedures. This role provides an opportunity to build a long‑term career in industrial operations through structured training and on‑the‑job experience.

This role is hourly non-exempt and starts on day shift M-F 7:30am – 4pm. After a successful training period this role will transition to Operator 1 with 12-hour rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

• Complete tasks assigned by the Warehouse Lead and Operations Manager including loading trucks, packing baking soda and soda ash, cleaning and organizing the warehouse, and maintaining the grounds (cutting grass, snow blowing, etc.)
• Shadow senior plant operators throughout the plant to learn daily tasks and plant operations.
• Familiarize yourself with chemical processing equipment, including pumps, valves, tanks, and other process equipment.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) to safely produce, transfer, and handle chemicals.
• Develop an understanding for operating data, including temperatures, pressures, flow rates, chemicals, and tank levels.
• Perform routine inspections and report abnormal conditions to team lead or operations management.
• Take samples and assist with basic laboratory testing as required.
• Learn start-up, shut-down, cleaning, and routine maintenance procedures of the plant.
• Maintain a clean and safe environment in accordance with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) standards.
• Wear proper personnel protective equipment (PPE) and follow safety protocols.
• Participate in safety meetings, training, and emergency drills.

• Assist with packing during shift.

• Employee must follow all applicable company policies and safe practices and perform all duties assigned by Warehouse Lead and Operations Manager. This description covers the significant duties of the job but may not include additional assignments assigned by Warehouse Lead and Operations Manager.

Physical Requirements / Work Environment

• Must be able to lift and move 50 lbs (consistently throughout shift if packaging), must be able to ascend and descend ladders, climb stairs, stoop, kneel, bend, crouch and crawl.
• Must be able to work in a dusty environment where temperatures vary from hot to cold, work in humidity and around various chemicals.
• Work is performed frequently in both outdoor and indoor environments. Outdoor environments include exposure to summer and winter temperatures.
• The employee’s working conditions are typically moderately loud and occasionally very loud. PPE is provided.
• The employee must be able to work schedules as assigned, including weekends, evenings, and holidays, and must be available for call-out during emergencies, inclement weather, or other critical events.

Key Competencies

Education

Total Rewards

J.M. Huber Corporation complies with all local/state regulations requiring salary range transparency.

Any offered salary is determined based on relevant factors such as an applicant's skills, performance, job responsibilities, prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications and market considerations.