Senior Process Engineer

Position Title: Senior Unit Process Engineer (Operations Support)

Job Description Summary:

The Vertex Mobile, Alabama Refinery Unit Process Engineer will be responsible for daily unit operational support, analyzing data and sharing monitoring results about unit health and run length, and longer-term scope development that supports site improvement. This role is highly visible to the organization and drives crucial operational tactics across functions. Development in-role also includes opportunities to cross-train in other Refining areas and the newly configured VGO Hydrocracker unit. The refinery has several areas supported by Unit Process Engineers and Operations Specialist teams.

Unit Monitoring:

Proactive unit monitoring, data assessment and tracking, and projection of unit health including yields and catalyst performance

Identify operating constraints and drive direction to Operations to optimize daily operations, as well as communicate limits and needs to stakeholders

Identify and guide margin opportunities

Design and support unit test runs

Ownership of area alarm management and design/integrity operating window monitoring

Partner with unit Operations Specialist to select operating targets and support healthy unit operations

Identify and work to resolve threats to safe operation and reliability of the asset

Prioritize opportunities and analyze proposed benefits to gain site support

Troubleshoot unit upsets and support front line Operations staff to identify causes during abnormal situations

Field walks for data gathering and safety observations

Monitor performance and enforce expectations for environmental compliance

Turnarounds:

Develop, risk-rank, and support execution of maintenance and turnaround outage scope relevant to support the premised run length for the units

Shift work as required to support technical inspection needs during unit turnarounds, including catalyst load monitoring

Perform internal process equipment inspections during maintenance outages

Develop scope inputs for multi-year budgeting cycles to assure asset reliability

As needed, manage catalyst budget and timing of orders to ensure adequate delivery and appropriate load plan

Management of Change/ Process Safety Management:

Own small plant changes from design through execution, engage with support disciplines and participate in hazard reviews

Participate in larger project work processes including basis of design generation, design reviews, and hazard analysis

Participate in Process Hazard Analysis studies to identify and assess Process Safety threats, and develop recommendations to mitigate the threats

Learning/ Technical Development:

Participate in/lead causal learning activities to identify causes and support development of solutions that can eliminate root causes of the studied issues

Develop deeper technical knowledge through work tasks as well as technical trainings

Cross-train to understand and support other unit operating areas

Develop leadership competences by leading multi-discipline teams to accomplish site goals (abnormal situation management, management of change, causal learning activities)

Skills, Knowledge, Qualifications:

BS Chemical Engineering degree required

Senior level Engineer: 10+ years of total experience, including 3+ years in refining preferred

Knowledge of project work processes, including Management of Change preferred

Strong organizational and communication skills (written & verbal)

Basic Requirements:

Work in an industrial environment; occasional outside work climbing ladders and stairs, entering confined spaces, lifting up to 50 lbs. sometimes in inclement weather

Must be authorized to work in the United States permanently on a full-time basis without requiring sponsorship.

Must possess and maintain a current valid license to operate a motor vehicle in the United States.

Must be able to read, speak, and write English fluently.

Hold or be able to qualify to receive a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card - Information may be found at

Adhere to site alcohol and drug standards including random drug screenings

As part of the pre-employment selection process, candidates are required to submit to and receive satisfactory results from all pre-employment background checks including but not limited to drug screening (including a hair sample), medical evaluation, and reference checks.

Note: None of the list above are intended to be all inclusive, other duties may be assigned.

Additional information:

The Unit Process Engineer regularly communicates with diverse audiences from front line Operations staff through the site leadership team level. Interpersonal skills, team focus and ability to manage multiple tasks with varying needs and priorities are critical to success in this position. Individual must be willing to dedicate the time required during intense activities (e.g., unit upsets, T/A, etc.). Occasional off schedule work for short periods of time can be expected in these circumstances.

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Schedule: 9/80 work schedule

Hiring Manager: Rachel Bussard

Closing date: 14 days after posting

Expected Start date: June 2025

About Vertex Energy: Vertex Energy is a leading energy transition company that specializes in producing high-purity refined fuels and products. Our innovative solutions are designed to enhance the performance of our customers and partners while also prioritizing sustainability, safety, and operational excellence. With a commitment to providing superior products and services, Vertex Energy is dedicated to shaping the future of the energy industry.

About the Site: The Vertex Refining Alabama Site is a 24/7 manufacturing plant in Saraland, Alabama that specializes in the production and distribution of refined products. It employs approximately 200 full-time staff, including both hourly and salaried employees. The site is known for its strong operational performance and community presence. The United Steelworkers Union (USW) represents the hourly workforce.

Posting Disclaimer: We reserve the right to amend, provide exceptions to or withdraw this posting at any time.