Field Operator - HYCO Facility

Overview

Air Products is a pioneering industrial gases company dedicated to innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability. We foster an inclusive workplace where diverse ideas drive advancements in solutions ranging from space exploration to hospital care. We are seeking a dedicated Field Operator for our HYCO hydrogen production plant located in Jubail, Saudi Arabia.

Role Summary

The HYCO Field Operator, reporting to the DCS Operator and Shift Supervisor, is responsible for the daily field operations ensuring hydrogen production targets and customer specifications are consistently met. This role requires extensive on-site activity including monitoring equipment, conducting inspections, performing startup and shutdown procedures, and troubleshooting to maintain safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant plant operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Uphold a safe operational environment by strictly following company and industry safety standards, including proper use of PPE, Lockout-Tagout procedures, and permit-to-work systems.
• Actively participate in Process Hazard Analyses and ensure all safety-critical equipment and interlocks are properly maintained.
• Serve as a first responder for emergencies such as firefighting, gas leaks, and emergency shutdowns, operating firewater monitors and emergency systems.
• Operate and manage the Steam Methane Reformer-based hydrogen plant, including CO2 removal and compression, PSA systems with tail gas compression, membrane units, and related utilities as per established work procedures.
• Oversee pipeline networks supplying hydrogen, steam, and CO2 to customer pipelines safely and efficiently.
• Maintain communication with customers at the operational level to meet their requirements for safety, reliability, and product flexibility, while maximizing facility efficiency and profitability.
• Conduct regular and detailed field rounds inspecting process variables and equipment, making necessary adjustments to maintain optimal process parameters.
• Execute plant startup and shutdown sequences from cold, warm, or standby conditions, assisting in commissioning activities to ensure smooth operations.
• Coordinate with maintenance teams to prepare equipment for servicing, including isolation and purging, and reinstate equipment safely post-maintenance.
• Perform accurate and comprehensive shift handovers, documenting operating parameters, significant events, and production data diligently.
• Identify causes of process deviations and equipment failures, collaborating on long-term solutions and continuous operational improvements.
• Support environmental compliance, preventive and corrective maintenance tasks, shutdown, and turnaround planning.
• Mentor new field operators and participate actively in investigations and root cause analyses to implement sustainable corrective measures.
• Adhere to all directives from the Panel Operator to optimize plant performance.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Chemical Process Operations preferred; Associate Technical Degree considered with relevant experience.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience operating SMR-based hydrogen, ammonia, methanol, or syngas plants as a Field Operator.
• Comprehensive understanding of SMR processes, pressure vessels, heat exchangers, furnaces, and rotating equipment—especially compressors.
• Strong mechanical aptitude combined with practical troubleshooting skills.
• Wide-ranging technical knowledge across operations, engineering, and maintenance functions.
• Ability to maintain high situational awareness and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, capable of coordinating effectively between operations and maintenance teams.
• Commitment to fostering teamwork and employee involvement.

Additional Information

This position is based onsite in Jubail, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia, delivering round-the-clock support for continuous operations. The Field Operator plays a pivotal role in achieving customer production goals while ensuring safety, reliability, and environmental compliance.

About Air Products

Founded in 1940, Air Products is a global leader in industrial gases with a demonstrated legacy of innovation, operational integrity, safety, and environmental responsibility. Our collaborative culture empowers us to create solutions for a cleaner, sustainable future worldwide.