Process Operator at Motiva Enterprises (2012-12 – Present)
- Operate and monitor utility systems supporting refinery operations, including steam generation, compressed air, water treatment, condensate systems, and electrical power generation.
- Monitor operating conditions from the field and control systems to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operation.
- Perform equipment startups, shutdowns, load changes, and routine operational adjustments while following established operating procedures.
- Conduct routine operator rounds inspecting pumps, boilers, turbines, compressors, heat exchangers, valves, and other process equipment.
- Perform water, condensate, and oil sampling to verify equipment reliability and process quality.
- Execute valve lineups and system isolations supporting maintenance and operational activities.
- Issue and manage work permits while ensuring compliance with Process Safety Management (PSM), Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), confined space, and hot work requirements.
- Troubleshoot abnormal operating conditions and coordinate with maintenance and engineering personnel to restore equipment reliability.
- Served as Supervisor during multiple boiler and generator outage overhauls, coordinating contractor activities while maintaining safe execution.
- Train and mentor newer operators and currently preparing for Lead Operator responsibilities.
Process Operator at Formosa Plastics (2010-04 – 2012-11)
- Participated in pre-commissioning, commissioning, and startup of two circulating fluidized bed (CFB) power generation units.
- Operated Distributed Control System (DCS) to manage unloading of petroleum coke and limestone from ships and trucks using reclaimers, conveyors, and pulverizers supplying the boilers.
- Monitored plant equipment and operating conditions to support safe and reliable power generation.
- Performed equipment inspections, troubleshooting, preventive maintenance support, and operational testing.
- Collected process samples and conducted routine analysis to verify system performance.
- Prepared work permits and verified equipment isolation before maintenance activities.
- Worked closely with maintenance and engineering personnel to improve plant reliability and operational efficiency.
Carpenter Helper at Austin Industrial (2009-12 – 2010-04)
- Assisted with refinery construction projects including excavation, concrete form construction, rebar installation, and foundation placement while maintaining refinery safety standards.
Diesel Mechanic Helper at Eagle Support Services (2009-03 – 2010-04)
- Assisted diesel mechanics with inspection, maintenance, and repair of military vehicles supporting cargo unloading operations at port facilities.
Laborer / Helper at Mason Construction Ltd. (2007-01 – 2009-12)
- Managed laydown yard inventory and coordinated material movement.
- Assisted with excavation, rebar installation, concrete forming, and foundation work for refinery infrastructure projects.
- Supported truck escort operations while maintaining safe work practices.
Pilot Plant Operator at Agrifos (2009-05 – 2009-10)
- Operated pilot plant systems evaluating raw materials for phosphoric acid production.
- Conducted laboratory analysis including sulfate, turbidity, and specific gravity testing.
- Recorded operating data and supported process optimization efforts.
Laborer at Bomac Ltd. (2008-05 – 2008-07)
- Assisted with excavation, form building, rebar installation, and concrete placement on industrial construction projects.
