- Environment Primarily outdoor work
- Education High school diploma
- Average salary $26,000 to $88,000
Career profile
Bulk plant operators are responsible for the blending of chemicals and other materials stored in a bulk plant, a facility that houses pressure vessels or silos containing various blends of chemicals, drilling fluids, cement, additives and acids used in the energy industry. They make sure that these materials are measured, blended and processed accurately and in appropriate amounts by calculating quantities, volumes and weights of materials according to a company’s mixture requirements.
Bulk plant operators assist with maintaining a sufficient raw material inventory and ensure the plant is in good working order so that the blending of materials can be completed, and the products delivered to a work site in a systematic and organized manner.
In this occupation activities may include:
- Blending and mixing all bulk products for delivery to the well site on time and as per the programmed design
- Measuring the appropriate amount of raw material to meet order specifications
- Packaging and labelling finished products per the order requirements
- Working with other plant staff and external/third party agents to ensure safe and efficient operations
- Ensuring all additives are properly labeled and stored in a safe manner and that all empty drums and pails are disposed of in the proper manner
Education
- A high school diploma (or equivalent) is typically required.
Certifications
- Standard and emergency first aid
- Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
- Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG)
- Forklift operator
Licensing
- Class 5 driver’s licence and a clean driving record
- Travel likely required
- Shiftwork/variable work hours
- Primarily outdoor work
- Physical work
- Safety-sensitive environment
You bring physical strength, mindfulness and precision to the job along with your math skills, handiness and rolled up sleeves attitude.
- Managing material resources
- Selecting equipment
- Maintaining equipment
- Monitoring operations
- Troubleshooting
- Planning and organizing
- Controlling operations
- Time management
- Chemistry
- Attention to detail
