Co-op - Operations

Job Description

Position: Co-op - Operations

Primary Location: Richmond, CA

Reports To: Operations Supervisor

Compensation:$19 - $22 per hour

At Chemtrade, we deliver innovative solutions with a focus on safety, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. We value and respect all our employees, recognizing that our diverse and talented workforce is the heart of our success. By putting people at the center of our operations, we build strong connections, nurture innovation, and create fulfilling work experiences for all.

About the Role

Chemtrade is seeking an Operations Co-op to join our team. This opportunity is ideal for students in their second year or beyond of a bachelor’s degree program in Engineering who are eager to gain hands-on experience in a chemical manufacturing environment. The successful candidate will develop practical skills in process operations, continuous improvement, safety management, quality systems, and technical documentation while working alongside experienced operations and engineering professionals.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the site's Quality Management System (ISO 9001) and Responsible Care Management System (RC 14001).
• Assist with Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) process tracking, verification, and closure.
• Collaborate with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, EHS, and corporate teams.
• Maintain and update-controlled documents using the site Document Management System (DMS) and SharePoint.
• Create and revise SOPs, JSAs, work instructions, forms, Lock-Out-Tag-Out Plans, and procedures.
• Support document control, records retention, and digitization initiatives.
• Assist with process troubleshooting, data collection, and operational improvement projects.
• Participate in Lean Six Sigma initiatives, including 6S and Kaizen activities.
• Support internal and external audits and follow-up actions.
• Promote and participate in site safety programs and initiatives.
• Assist with investigations, material balances, chemical usage tracking, and small engineering projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Operations Supervisor.

Qualifications/Education

• Currently enrolled in the 2nd or 3rd year of a Bachelor's degree program in Engineering.

Academic Requirements

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5/4.0.

Work Term

• January 2027 - April 2027

Technical Skills

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including:
  • Excel
  • Word
  • PowerPoint
  • Outlook
  • Project
  • Visio
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented industrial environment.

Preferred Qualities

• Interest in chemical manufacturing, process operations, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate documentation.
• Willingness to learn and contribute in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What Chemtrade Offers You

Embracing Diversity, Maximizing Results

At Chemtrade we are committed to cultivating a work environment that embraces and values the unique qualities, skills, and experiences of every employee. We believe in harnessing the richness of diverse talents, ideas, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to drive our business forward, and see our diversity as one of our greatest strengths.

To foster an inclusive environment, we actively encourage the creation of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which are open to all employees. These employee-driven groups provide platforms for employees to share their perspectives, contribute their ideas, and help shape our inclusive and respectful culture and provide vital platforms for employees to connect, share experiences, and celebrate their unique backgrounds and perspectives. Together, we strive to build a workplace that recognizes and celebrates the diverse voices within our organization. We recognize the value of Employee Resource Groups (ERG’s) in fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Join us in our journey towards building an inclusive workplace that promotes the personal and professional development of our employees.

Additionally, we understand the importance of work-life balance and the well-being of our employees and their families.

That is why we proudly offer a range of family-friendly benefits, and opportunities for career growth and advancement.

We are committed to supporting our employees at every stage of their lives and ensuring they can thrive both professionally and personally. Join us and be a part of a company that values diversity, inclusion and the well-being of its employees

Learn more about Chemtrade by following us on LinkedIn or Facebook and check us out on YouTube: Chemtrade

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