MICHAEL KING
Killen,AL
Summary
Dynamic Pilot Plant Technician at Ascend Performance Materials with expertise in process control and chemical handling. Proven track record in training and mentoring teams, enhancing operational efficiency, and implementing safety protocols. Skilled in instrument calibration and problem-solving, consistently achieving high product quality and minimizing downtime through proactive maintenance and collaboration.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Pilot Plant Technician
Ascend Performance Materials
Decatur, AL
10.2018 - Current
- Operated pilot plant equipment such as Magnetic drive pumps, Centrifugal pumps, Bronkhorst meters, E&H meters.
- Assisted in setup and calibration of machinery for various experimental runs.
- Used SAP and Excel to maintain accurate records of experiments and results to support data analysis.
- Followed safety protocols to minimize risks associated with chemical handling and equipment operation.
- Collaborated with team members to troubleshoot issues during pilot operations.
- Conducted routine maintenance on equipment to ensure optimal performance.
- Supported senior technicians and chemists in preparing materials for testing processes.
- Participated in training sessions to enhance technical skills and knowledge of pilot plant operations.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors and suppliers, ensuring timely delivery of critical components or services required for uninterrupted pilot plant operations.
- Continuously improved pilot plant operations through the implementation of lean manufacturing principles and best practices.
- Assisted in the training and onboarding of new technicians, providing guidance on operational procedures and safety protocols.
- Achieved consistent product quality by meticulously monitoring production parameters and adjusting control systems.
- Reduced downtime with proactive identification of potential issues through regular equipment inspections.
- Maintained a safe working environment by following strict safety protocols and ensuring proper handling of hazardous materials.
- Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning new technologies and processes introduced within the facility to stay at the forefront of industry advancements.
- Collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot process-related issues and develop solutions for improved performance.
- Boosted team efficiency by organizing, restocking and maintaining laboratory environments and equipment.
- Sampled materials to obtain data for research.
- Coordinated safe disposal of unwanted chemicals and cleaning apparatus.
QC Laboratory Technician
Ascend Performance Materials
Decatur, AL
08.2014 - 10.2018
- Conducted routine quality control tests to ensure product compliance with industry standards.
- Analyzed laboratory samples using advanced instrumentation and software such as Gas Chromatography, Liquid Chromatography, and Inductively Coupled Plasma.
- Documented findings and maintained detailed records of testing procedures and outcomes.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot quality issues and implement corrective actions.
- Trained junior technicians on testing protocols and laboratory safety procedures to enhance team efficiency.
- Contributed to a safer work environment by adhering to strict safety protocols and guidelines.
- Enhanced product quality by conducting thorough laboratory testing and analysis.
- Maintained equipment calibration, ensuring accurate test results and compliance with industry standards.
- Reduced production delays by performing efficient sample preparation and testing procedures.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot issues, resulting in faster problem resolution.
- Conducted stability studies on finished products, ensuring long-term quality retention and customer satisfaction.
- Streamlined communication between departments by providing timely updates on progress and results of ongoing tests.
- Optimized inventory management through proper storage and handling of chemical reagents and samples.
- Supported continuous improvement initiatives by identifying areas for process optimization within the laboratory setting.
- Evaluated samples against standards by completing measurements, visual inspections, and other established tests.
- Performed routine maintenance and calibration on testing equipment.
- Completed supporting documentation for testing procedures, data capture forms, equipment logbooks and inventory forms.
- Conducted data review and followed standard practices to find solutions.
- Interpreted test results by comparing to established specifications and control limits, making recommendations on appropriateness of data for release.
Chemical Operator
Ascend Performance Materials
Decatur, AL
11.2006 - 08.2014
- Operated and monitored chemical processing equipment to ensure optimal production efficiency.
- Conducted quality control tests to maintain product specifications and compliance standards.
- Assisted in troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, reducing downtime and improving workflow continuity.
- Implemented safety protocols, enhancing workplace safety and reducing incident rates.
- Trained new operators on machinery operation and safety procedures, fostering a culture of safety awareness.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize raw material usage and minimize waste.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and best practices in chemical handling.
- Ensured safe working environment by strictly adhering to safety protocols and guidelines during chemical operations.
- Operated chemical processing equipment successfully while adhering to company standards.
- Followed safety processes and protocols while moving hazardous chemicals and operating heavy machinery to avoid and accidents.
- Stored, retrieved, mixed, and monitored chemicals used in production process.
- Trained new employees on standard operating procedures, contributing to a well-prepared workforce.
- Tracked and documented production data to maintain accurate records.
- Documented all work activities accurately, providing valuable data for future reference and analysis purposes.
- Identified potential hazards in the workplace, implementing corrective actions to mitigate risks.
- Safely used various machinery and forklifts during chemical drumming operations.
- Operated lab equipment for chemical tests and verification of product quality against standards.
- Enhanced production efficiency by optimizing chemical processes and equipment settings.
- Successfully operated chemical reactors, pumps and centrifuges to produce commercial-grade products.
- Troubleshot equipment and process issues and restored optimum function to maintain production speed and meet quality goals.
- Troubleshot process issues, efficiently resolving problems to maintain optimal production levels.
- Communicated with supervisors and other personnel to review and discuss process changes.
- Coordinated with other departments on timely delivery of raw materials for production.
- Followed all waste handling guidelines to minimize waste generation.
- Modified controls to regulate temperature, pressure, feed, and flow of liquids and gases while monitoring outcomes and promoting successful processing.
- Enhanced team collaboration by establishing clear communication channels for shift handovers.
- Conducted regular inspections of personal protective equipment, ensuring worker safety.
- Monitored environmental compliance, ensuring all operations met regulatory standards.
- Maintained safety standards during operation of chemical processing equipment, preventing any incidents.
- Operated chemical processing equipment, including centrifuges, evaporators and reactors.
- Utilized computerized process control systems to monitor and adjust chemical process variables.
- Troubleshot and solved process equipment problems to minimize production downtime.
- Diagnosed issues quickly and contacted supervisor to warn of potential project delays.
Education
High School Diploma -
The Way Home Christian School
Huntsville, AL05-2003
Skills
- Training and mentoring
- Standard operating procedures
- Chemical handling
- Instrument Calibration
- Process control expertise
- Mechanical aptitude
- Piping and valves
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Laboratory safety protocols
- Lab equipment processes
- Multitasking
- Data analyzation
- Research and documentation
- Inventory control
- Adaptability and flexibility
Timeline
Pilot Plant Technician
Ascend Performance Materials
10.2018 - Current
QC Laboratory Technician
Ascend Performance Materials
08.2014 - 10.2018
Chemical Operator
Ascend Performance Materials
11.2006 - 08.2014
High School Diploma -
The Way Home Christian School