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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Junction Operator

💰 $45,000 - $70,000

OperationsManufacturingLogisticsIndustrial

🎯 Role Definition

The Junction Operator is a pivotal, hands-on role at the heart of our operational infrastructure. This position is responsible for the safe and efficient operation, monitoring, and maintenance of critical junction points within our manufacturing, processing, or logistics systems. The operator ensures the continuous and correct flow of materials, products, or data, adhering strictly to established safety protocols, quality standards, and operational procedures. This role requires a high degree of vigilance, mechanical aptitude, and the ability to make quick, informed decisions to prevent disruptions and maintain absolute system integrity. It's a role for someone who is dependable, detail-oriented, and committed to operational excellence.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Production Assistant / Associate
  • General Laborer or Utility Worker
  • Apprentice Operator

Advancement To:

  • Lead Operator / Senior Operator
  • Control Room Supervisor or Shift Supervisor
  • Maintenance Technician

Lateral Moves:

  • Quality Control Inspector
  • Logistics Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Actively monitor and operate complex control panels, computer terminals (HMI/SCADA), and related equipment to manage the flow of materials, products, or energy through junction points.
  • Diligently observe gauges, dials, system readouts, and other indicators to ensure all operational parameters, such as pressure, temperature, and flow rates, remain within established safety and efficiency limits.
  • Perform precise adjustments to valves, pumps, controls, and other mechanical or automated systems in response to changing conditions or system commands to regulate and direct flow.
  • Execute system start-up, shutdown, and emergency shutdown procedures for equipment and systems according to strict company guidelines and safety protocols to prevent injury or equipment damage.
  • Conduct routine inspections and preventative maintenance on junction equipment, including lubrication, cleaning, and minor adjustments, to ensure optimal performance and operational longevity.
  • Identify, diagnose, and troubleshoot operational problems and equipment malfunctions in a timely manner, taking immediate corrective action to minimize downtime and production loss.
  • Maintain meticulous and accurate operational logs, shift reports, and data entry records detailing production numbers, system performance, and any unusual incidents.
  • Strictly adhere to all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations, including the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and following Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures.
  • Communicate effectively with upstream and downstream operators, supervisors, and maintenance personnel to ensure smooth and coordinated operations across shifts and departments.
  • Collect and test product or material samples at various stages of the process to ensure they meet stringent quality control specifications and standards.
  • Respond promptly and appropriately to system alarms, assessing the situation to determine the cause and taking necessary steps to resolve the issue safely.
  • Manage the input and output of materials at the junction point, ensuring the correct type and quantity of resources are available and routed correctly.
  • Perform regular housekeeping duties within the assigned work area to maintain a clean, safe, and organized operational environment.
  • Read and interpret technical documents, such as Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work orders, and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), to guide operational tasks.
  • Participate in safety meetings, incident investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives to contribute to a safer and more efficient workplace.
  • Assist maintenance teams during equipment overhauls, repairs, or new installations by isolating systems and preparing equipment for service.
  • Operate mobile equipment such as forklifts or pallet jacks as needed to move materials and supplies within the operational area.
  • Complete comprehensive shift handover communications, clearly reporting on the status of equipment, ongoing processes, and any issues encountered during the shift.
  • Monitor and control auxiliary equipment connected to the junction, such as compressors, dryers, or filtration systems, ensuring they function correctly.
  • Report any process deviations, equipment failures, or safety hazards to the shift supervisor or lead operator without delay.
  • Calibrate and adjust sensors and monitoring equipment to ensure the accuracy of data being used for operational control.

Secondary Functions

  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis to assist in troubleshooting or process improvement.
  • Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap by providing user feedback on control systems and reporting tools.
  • Collaborate with engineering and business units to translate operational data needs into practical engineering requirements.
  • Participate in sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and other agile ceremonies as part of cross-functional project teams.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Control Systems Operation: Proficiency with SCADA, HMI, or DCS for process monitoring and control.
  • Mechanical Aptitude: Strong understanding of pumps, valves, motors, and other industrial mechanical equipment.
  • Troubleshooting: Ability to diagnose and resolve mechanical and system-level operational issues.
  • Procedural Compliance: Expertise in following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols like Lockout/Tagout (LOTO).
  • Technical Document Interpretation: Skill in reading and understanding P&IDs, schematics, and equipment manuals.
  • Basic Maintenance: Competency in performing preventative maintenance tasks, including lubrication and minor adjustments.
  • Data Logging: Accurate and diligent record-keeping of operational data and shift activities.
  • Use of Tools: Safe and effective use of various hand and power tools for adjustments and minor repairs.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous in monitoring systems and maintaining records to prevent errors.
  • Problem-Solving: A proactive and analytical approach to identifying and resolving issues under pressure.
  • Communication: Clear and concise verbal and written communication for shift handovers and team collaboration.
  • Safety-First Mindset: An unwavering commitment to personal and team safety in all actions.
  • Adaptability: Ability to adjust to changing operational demands, shift work, and new technologies.
  • Teamwork: Works cooperatively with colleagues, supervisors, and support staff to achieve common goals.
  • Composure: Remains calm and decisive during emergencies or system alarms.
  • Work Ethic: Reliable, punctual, and self-motivated to perform tasks with minimal supervision.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's Degree or a Technical/Vocational Certificate in a relevant field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Process Technology
  • Industrial Mechanics
  • Instrumentation Technology
  • Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 2-5 years of hands-on experience in a similar operator role within a manufacturing, production, chemical processing, or logistics environment.

Preferred:

  • Direct experience with automated control systems (SCADA/DCS) and a proven track record of safe and efficient operations in a 24/7 facility.
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