Chemical Operations & Maintenance Tech

Rate: $33/hr
Location: Longview, WA (On-Site)
Duration: 6-months (Contract-to-Hire)

Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated and safety-focused Chemical Operations & Maintenance Technician to support a manufacturing operation within a heavy industrial pulp and paper environment. This role combines chemical handling, inventory management, mechanical maintenance, and basic laboratory testing. The ideal candidate possesses strong mechanical aptitude, excellent communication skills, and a willingness to learn through hands-on training. Success in this role requires patience, attention to detail, adherence to safety procedures, and the ability to work independently after training.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain chemical inventory, including receiving, tracking, collecting, and verifying inventory levels.
• Safely handle, transfer, and store a variety of industrial chemicals, including polymers, coagulants, cleaning chemicals, caustics, acids, and other treatment products.
• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain liquid pumping systems, including hydraulic, gear, and transfer pumps.
• Perform maintenance activities on pumps, hoses, and related mechanical equipment.
• Conduct routine inspections to ensure equipment reliability and safe operation.
• Perform basic laboratory testing and documentation; training will be provided.
• Follow established operating procedures, safety requirements, and environmental guidelines.
• Collaborate with facility personnel while developing the knowledge and skills necessary to work independently.
• Maintain accurate records for inventory, maintenance activities, and laboratory results.
• Participate in ongoing training and process improvement initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• Strong commitment to workplace safety and safe work practices.
• Mechanical aptitude with an interest in troubleshooting and equipment maintenance.
• Ability to follow instructions, learn new processes, and ask questions to build technical knowledge.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Comfortable working in a heavy industrial manufacturing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in a manufacturing, industrial, chemical, pulp & paper, water treatment, or maintenance environment.
• Experience handling industrial chemicals.
• Familiarity with pumps, hydraulic systems, hoses, and mechanical equipment.
• Basic laboratory or quality testing experience.
• Inventory management experience.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk extensively throughout the workday (approximately 10,000-20,000 steps daily).
• Ability to regularly lift and carry up to 40-50 pounds.
• Ability to frequently climb stairs and work throughout a large industrial facility.
• Ability to safely use hand tools and perform routine maintenance tasks.
• Must be capable of working in a physically demanding environment.

Key Competencies

• Safety-First Mindset
• Mechanical Aptitude
• Teamwork & Collaboration
• Troubleshooting & Problem Solving
• Communication Skills
• Attention to Detail
• Willingness to Learn
• Initiative and Accountability

This position offers an excellent opportunity for an individual looking to develop technical skills and grow into a long-term role within a stable manufacturing environment, with the potential for full-time employment.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.