Process technology specialists are the backbone of manufacturing and processing facilities. They start their shifts by monitoring production and assembly lines to ensure they operate efficiently and safely. Technicians repair and replace components and machinery as needed and provide recommendations for improvement. They generate production reports and provide them to their supervisors. Process technology jobs are in demand because many companies are expanding their production processes to meet customer needs.

A Process Technology Specialist Job Description

To understand a process technology specialist’s job, you can begin by reading a typical job description that provides an overview of what is typically expected in this position. Process technicians should have a strong working knowledge of computer operations, basic math, and use their skills to ensure processes function properly. They perform these general duties:

• Apply analytical skills to solve problems
• Research, collect, analyze, and use relevant data
• Use communication skills effectively
• Apply detail-oriented thought and methodology
• Monitor and improve manufacturing processes
• Inspect, monitor, and operate processing equipment
• Plan workflows and maintain production logbooks
• Practice and maintain workplace safety
• Test product batch quality
• Document and report equipment malfunctions

Process technicians are expected to coordinate their work with colleagues and supervisors in a timely manner. They also troubleshoot the production and assembly lines for potential problems and strive for peak production.

Process Technology Specialist Industry Career Paths

Process technicians apply their acquired knowledge and skills in a variety of industrial groups located in virtually all states. These industries supply many products consumers use daily and commercial enterprises use to create their products and services. Major vital industries where technicians work include:

Aeronautics                   Natural Gas
Beverages                      Petroleum
Biomedical                    Power
Ceramics                       Pulp and Paper
Chemical                       Water Treatment
Foods                            Waste-Water Treatment
Metals                           Textiles

After graduating from a process technology program, technicians start their careers in entry-level positions directly related to their technical training. Examples of positions they are hired into or are promoted into include:                                                   

• Chemical Process Technicians
• Power Plant Technicians
• Assistant Plant Operators
• Water Treatment Technicians
• Waste-Water Treatment Technicians
• Petroleum and Gas Process Technicians
• Energy Plant Technicians
• Plant Operators

“Process technology specialists are the backbone of manufacturing and processing facilities.”

A Day In The Life Of A Process Technology Specialist  

Process technology specialists begin a typical day by monitoring safety, health, and environmental regulations to ensure they are in place and being followed. They next move to sample a few products to observe and measure their physical properties. Technicians look at the workflow plans for production for the day, prepare equipment, and machinery layouts.

Specialists analyze data to determine if production is meeting goals and if efficiency and product quality need to be improved. These actions may be followed by identifying machine faults and production rate errors. If any issues or breakdowns occur, they report them to supervisors and engineers.

During their work shifts, process technicians maintain production logbooks and submit them to their supervisors. A discussion follows to determine the positives and negatives of their day and what to do to correct any problems. Overall, technicians help ensure that all work meets in-house and customer standards for quality and safety.

Job Outlook For Process Technicians

The demand for process technicians is currently high with a positive job outlook. Manufacturing and especially advanced manufacturing companies are growing rapidly. This means there is a significant need for skilled process technicians across various sectors. Key points you should consider if you are planning a career in this position include:

• Manufacturing and processing facilities are expanding nationally and not just regionally that lead to a higher demand for workers in complex production processes
• Salaries for process technicians are increasing that attract more workers
• Technicians have the opportunities to work in diverse industries, not just a few
• As manufacturing technology becomes more advanced, the need for skilled workers to operate sophisticated equipment is growing

Obtain An Associate Degree To Launch Your Career

Employers expect process technicians to have both work experience and technical college training. The best way to launch your career is by earning an Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in a Process Technology Program. ITI Technical College offers an excellent opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills to obtain an entry-level position in diverse industries.

Request information about our college and programs and talk to one of our admissions representatives soon.

For more information about graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit our website: https://iticollege.edu/disclosures/