Overview Universal Chemicals and Coatings, LLC (UNICHEM) has been a market-leading formulator of high-performance custom industrial coatings, laminating adhesives, and container linings since 1967. The company has built its reputation on a strong foundation of science and research, with deep expertise in process technology, resin science, value-added engineering, and industrial market insights. UNICHEM's interdisciplinary, problem-solving approach delivers tailored solutions to customers across the industrial drum and pail markets and coil-applied industrial coatings segments. UNICHEM is a business unit of PRO-SET Formulated Resin Systems, LLC (PFRS), a global platform delivering high-performance formulated resin and polymer solutions for demanding applications across marine, aerospace, defense, electronics, energy, and advanced manufacturing markets. PFRS's core expertise spans infusion, laminating, tooling, coatings, and adhesive resin systems engineered to solve complex customer challenges with precision, consistency, and reliability. PFRS is backed by Iron Path Capital, an operationally focused private equity firm. About the Role We are looking for an energetic, dependable individual who is willing to learn and grow with our organization. This is a Production Associate role, with cross-training and active participation in warehouse activities as needs require. Adaptability and flexibility are essential. Sit-down forklift experience is required. Must be able to regularly lift at least 50 pounds. This role is also intended as an entry point onto a growth path toward Chemical Operator/Batchmaker responsibilities. New hires are not expected to perform batchmaking duties at the start of employment. Over time, and with demonstrated reliability and proficiency in the responsibilities below, associates will be given increasing opportunity to cross-train into batch ticket work and more advanced production skills, as outlined under Growth Path below. Advancement is based on demonstrated skill, reliability, and business need, and is not automatic or guaranteed on a fixed timeline. Key Responsibilities Learning to accurately read, interpret, and complete batch tickets, including weighing and adding raw materials in the sequence and quantities specified. Operating mixing equipment and material handling equipment such as pumps, meters, and scales under guidance. Assembling basic intermediate premixes and solution coatings as skill develops. Progressing toward more advanced batching techniques over time, including viscosity adjustment and, eventually, more complex batch types such as emulsions or multi-part batches, as proficiency is demonstrated. Setting up and cleaning filter media and ancillary filtration equipment. Increasing familiarity with Hazard Communication (HazCom), DOT, and RCRA requirements applicable to materials handled in both warehouse and production settings. Receive incoming raw material shipments on pallets, drums, pails, and bags; verify quantities, batch numbers, lot numbers, PO information, and unit sizes (gallon, pail, drum, etc.) against paperwork. Confirm product weight matches expected specifications and document all discrepancies. Prepare finished goods for outbound shipment, including completion of all required documentation such as Bills of Lading (BOL). You will not coordinate directly with carriers; focus is on accurate packaging and paperwork preparation. Move finished goods from the production floor to proper warehouse storage locations using a sit-down forklift. Process customer and vendor returns per established procedures. Receive solvent deliveries via tanker truck; oversee and assist with pumping product from tanker to totes or storage tanks, applying safe chemical handling practices. Maintain warehouse in an orderly, compliant, and safe manner at all times. Take and record in-house inventory as directed.

Personality & Culture Requirements Adaptable & Flexible:

Embraces a hybrid role and shifts between production tasks and shipping & receiving/material handling based on daily and even hour-to-hour operational needs, without resistance.

Detail-Oriented:

Meticulous in verifying batch numbers, lot numbers, PO information, unit sizes, and weights; accuracy in documentation is critical.

Safety-Minded:

Takes the safe handling of hazardous and flammable materials seriously; no phone usage on the production floor.

Strong Work Ethic:

Works until the job is done; takes ownership of assigned areas and tasks.

Collaborative:

Works well within a small team environment and communicates clearly with supervisors and coworkers.

Proactive:

Anticipates what needs to be done; does not wait to be told when obvious tasks are apparent.

Growth-Minded:

Shows interest in learning production and batchmaking skills over time as opportunities for cross-training are presented. Qualifications High School Diploma or equivalent required. 3-5 years of experience in a manufacturing, warehousing, or chemical handling environment preferred, but not required for entry-level placement. Sit-down forklift experience required; experience with stand-up, reach, or electric forklifts a plus. Comfortable working around chemicals and flammable materials; prior chemical warehousing experience preferred but not required.

Strong basic math skills:

addition, subtraction, multiplication, division; as well as quantities, and batch/lot number tracking. Solid documentation and organizational skills; able to complete shipping and receiving paperwork accurately. No prior batchmaking or chemical operating experience required at hire — training and cross-training toward these skills will be provided over time. Must be a U.S. Citizen or authorized to work in the United States. Nice to Have (but Not Required) Experience operating diaphragm pumps or gear pumps. Familiarity with hazmat shipping regulations and BOL completion. ISO-certified manufacturing environment experience. Experience with tanker offloading operations. Prior exposure to batch ticket reading or basic production mixing. What to

Expect Work Schedule:

Monday-Thursday, 7:00 am to 3:30 pm and Friday 6:30 am-3:00 pm. Hours may extend for special projects or meetings. Mandatory overtime may be required. This is a key position that may require working outside normal hours.

Environment:

Primarily indoor (heated, non-air-conditioned warehouse and production floor) with some outdoor exposure when loading/unloading trucks and receiving tanker deliveries. PPE and site-specific safety training provided. Areas involve exposure to chemicals and flammable materials.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to regularly lift 50-70 pounds; prolonged standing and walking; forklift operation throughout the shift.

Travel:

On occasion, this role may require travel to our Elgin, IL facility to support operational needs.

Benefits:

UNICHEM offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage; company-paid life insurance and short-term disability; and a 401(k) retirement plan.

Growth:

Associates who demonstrate reliability and proficiency will have the opportunity to cross-train into Chemical Operator/Batchmaker responsibilities over time, subject to business need. Equal Opportunity Employer UNICHEM is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Employment Disclaimer This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Employment with UNICHEM is at-will, meaning either party may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of background check and drug screening, where permitted by law. UNICHEM will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law.

Pay:

From $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person