Polymerization Operator

Position Title: Polymerization Operator

Department: Polymer Production Department

About ZL Chemicals

ZL Chemicals is an international manufacturing company with operations across Oman, Kuwait, Canada, and the United States. We specialize in advanced chemical and polymer manufacturing, serving global industrial markets with a strong commitment to safety, quality, and innovation. We are currently developing a state-of-the-art polymer manufacturing plant in Sohar, designed to be one of the largest and most technologically advanced facilities in the region. We are looking for motivated and reliable candidates to join our growing team and support the safe and efficient operation of this new facility.

Position Summary

The Polymerization Operator is responsible for executing polymerization operations, including raw material transfer, nitrogen charging, initiator preparation and addition, reactor temperature control, and continuous process monitoring. This role ensures that polymerization reactions are carried out safely, efficiently, and in accordance with established quality and process standards.

Main Responsibilities

• Confirm nitrogen purity of 99.99% prior to charging and maintain communication with the Air Compressor Station to ensure a stable and continuous nitrogen supply.
• Control nitrogen flow rate strictly according to process requirements and continuously monitor flow variations during charging to ensure uniform material mixing and consistent product quality (molecular weight, viscosity).
• Prepare and add initiators accurately in accordance with approved process requirements; ensure correct sequencing and flush each initiator feed point with 2 kg of pure water to prevent unintended reactions.
• Operate polymerization reactors following correct valve opening and closing sequences to prevent backflow, pipeline blockage, and abnormal production conditions.
• Control empty reactor temperature within specified limits prior to feeding; apply chilled water promptly to prevent adverse effects on polymerization stability and product quality.
• Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times to ensure personal and operational safety.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and timely operational records and perform proper shift handovers to ensure continuity of operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned by department leadership.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or above.
• Good physical condition with no medical restrictions affecting job performance.
• Diploma or degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field is preferred.
• No professional certification required.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and execute assigned process operations accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and operational precision.
• High level of discipline, accountability, and reliability.
• Excellent safety awareness and strict adherence to safety protocols.
• Demonstrated professionalism and consistency in performing assigned tasks.

Required Training

• Safety training
• Operational skills training
• Factory rules and regulations training

Language Requirement

English Level: A2 (Basic Operational English)

• Ability to understand and use everyday expressions related to work tasks.
• Ability to communicate operational issues using simple words and phrases.
• Ability to read basic work instructions with the support of diagrams or visual aids.

Other Information

• Work Environment: Indoor / Outdoor polymerization areas
• Work Schedule: Rotating shifts (3 days on / 2 days off)

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Compliance with personal and equipment safety requirements
• Accuracy of nitrogen charging and initiator addition sequence
• Polymerization process pH control
• Cost control (no material overflow, no non-polymerization events)
• Accuracy and completeness of operational records and shift handovers