CPO Specialist

Description

The CPO Specialist is a high-level technical expert responsible for overseeing complex chemical processing and wastewater treatment operations. This role ensures that all systems and processes operate efficiently, safely, and in full compliance with environmental and quality standards. The Specialist provides leadership in process optimization, regulatory adherence, and cross-functional collaboration to support production goals and sustainability efforts.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advanced Chemical Process Oversight: Lead the operation and continuous improvement of chemical process equipment including surface treatment baths, coating systems, ovens, and related assets. Ensure high standards of product quality and process consistency.
• Wastewater Treatment Management: Oversee wastewater treatment systems, including chemical dosing, filtration, pH balancing, and discharge compliance. Own monitoring protocols and respond proactively to deviations or regulatory changes.
• Quality and Process Control: Develop and manage procedures for monitoring critical process variables such as concentrations, temperatures, and flow rates. Lead root cause analysis for process variances and ensure corrective actions are implemented.
• Material and Chemical Stewardship: Supervise the handling, preparation, and use of chemical solutions and materials. Guide safe storage and transfer procedures in accordance with safety and environmental guidelines.
• Process Optimization and Technical Leadership: Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and minimize environmental impact. Collaborate with engineering and maintenance teams to implement system upgrades and process innovations.
• Regulatory Compliance and Safety: Serve as a subject matter expert in chemical safety, environmental regulations, and PPE protocols. Ensure site-wide compliance with OSHA, EPA, and local environmental standards.
• Maintenance Coordination: Coordinate with maintenance teams to schedule and support preventive and corrective maintenance for chemical process and treatment equipment.
• Reporting and Documentation: Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of chemical processes, treatment logs, quality metrics, and regulatory documentation. Prepare reports for internal and external audits as needed.

Requirements

• Associate's degree or higher in Chemical Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related technical field; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 3+ years of hands-on experience in chemical processing and/or industrial wastewater treatment, with a demonstrated ability to lead and optimize operations.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory compliance in chemical handling and wastewater discharge (e.g., OSHA, EPA).
• Experience with process control systems, analytical testing, and root cause analysis tools.
• Ability to mentor and train operators while promoting a strong safety and compliance culture.
• Excellent documentation, problem-solving, and communication skills.