Delta College Chemical Process Technology Programs:
Delta College has two options to prepare you to apply as a chemical process operator at local employers.
Academic Programs: Delta College has a 1-year certificate in Chemical Process Technology (minimum 35 credits) and a 2-year associate degree (minimum 64.6 credits). In our region, HSC/Dow Corning will consider the certificate completers and Dow Chemical requires the associate degree. These classes begin January 9, 2010 and registration is currently open.
Academic Program Questions please contact:
Delta College Counseling & Advising Center
D-102
989-686-9330
Walk-in Appointment Schedule:
Monday-Thursday 8 am-6 pm
Friday 10 am-4 pm
Fast Start: The other option is our 480 hour Pre-Chemical Process Operator “Fast Start” program. Delta College operates a Fast Start program when the employment demand exceeds our academic graduates. This program is designed for individuals who have minimum WorkKeys scores, manufacturing experience, and previous college/training. We currently do not have another program scheduled at this time (probably late Spring/early Summer 2010 at the earliest). If you will send your contact information (mailing address or e-mail) to pagraves@delta.edu we will maintain your information in a database and we will contact you with updated information on Fast Start #6 when it is available.
Regional Process Operator Employment Opportunities
Chemical employers (Dow Chemical, Dow Corning, Hemlock Semiconductor, and Evergreen Solar) have openings for Chemical Process Operators. The projected employment demand is for over 100 new hires each year for the next five years. Starting salaries are $13-20/per hour.
Chemical Process Operators: work with the handling, transporting, transferring, storage and disposal of chemicals and other materials in compliance with all state and federal regulations; they operate, troubleshoot, monitor, and control both continuous and batch processes; assemble, disassemble and stage reactor systems; line up and management of valving stations and headers; understand and use pneumatic tools and equipment; connect, disconnect, load, unload and manage tanker transfer stations; are knowledgeable and uphold the standards regarding health, safety, and the environment; interface with chemical engineers and tradesmen, technicians, and co-workers involved with these processes; hands on and management of normal equipment maintenance; calibrate instrumentation; and handling of medium to heavy tools, products and equipment.
Working Conditions: Chemical Process Operators work in teams and shifts to maintain and operate large manufacturing facilities 24 hours a day. The level of direct supervision varies by plant and company, but is typically minimal. Process Operators monitor the computers that run the plant working often in a control room environment and also in the field performing field work such as maintenance. Shift teams rotate day, afternoon, or night shifts because the manufacture of chemical products is a continuous process. Work weeks cover the weekends and operators often work overtime and occasionally they are required to cover shifts on holidays. All employees in a chemical plant have to wear safety helmets, goggles, safety shoes, gloves, and respirators. Chemical Process Operators may work in enclosed spaces or high places; may be required to climb ladders to storage tanks; and lift process equipment and product.
Chemical Process Operator Skills: Employers are looking for trained Chemical Process Operators who have the following skills and abilities (you must meet all of these criteria for employment):
• Technical skills and can resolve technical problems
• Initiative, personal integrity, and a commitment to life-long learning
• Leadership skills
• Teamwork and interpersonal skills
• A willingness to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime
• Basic computer skills
• Have personal awareness of and commitment to safe work habits and behaviors
• Ability to lift 50 pounds, operate valves and similar equipment, able to climb ladders/stairs, work at heights, and work in tight or closed-in spaces
• A current, valid United States drivers license with no restrictions
• Be able to pass a drug screen, background check, and medical exam prior to employment
Fast Start Program Details
A 480-hour accelerated program to provide qualified students with the skills to enter the workforce as a Chemical Process Operator. Successful completers (based on instructional assessment standards and attendance) can earn up to 25 academic credits (CPI 110-260) toward the Chemical Process Technology Associate degree and be qualified to apply for employment as a Chemical Process Operator. From the Fast Start #1 class, 80% of successful completers were offered positions and Fast Start #2, 100% of successful completers were offered positions. Fast Start #3, #4, and #5 are in progress.
Program Selection-there will be 16-24 seats available and they will be offered to the 16-24 candidates who best meet the described preferred candidate qualifications. Students who are registered for academic courses to complete the Associate Degree in Chemical Process Technology are not encouraged to apply for Fast Start.
Cost: $5,400
Financial Support: may be available to those who qualify through Michigan Works! or the Veteran’s Administration. Pell grants and student loans are not available for this program.