Nikolas Santos

Catalyst Operator and SME / Hydrogenation of Fatty Alcohol (HFA) Operator

• Operate and troubleshoot hydrogenation and catalyst recovery systems within a high-volume chemical manufacturing facility.
• Lead SME for catalyst operationsevaluate and approve operational projects and process changes to ensure safety, compliance and production reliability, as well as developing and standardizing SOPs, CBAs, and operational documentation aligned with plant safety and process requirements.
• Monitor and maintain critical process equipment including hydrogen compressors, ester feed pumps, catalyst feed pumps, reactors, interchangers, thermal oxidizers, environmental scrubbers, and centrifuges.
• Utilize DCS/HMI systems including TDC, CTS, and Experion for process monitoring, operational control, and troubleshooting.
• Perform analytical testing using gas chromatography (GC) and laboratory equipment to verify product quality, concentration levels, and process performance.
• Conduct line settings, batch mixing, pumping operations, and process adjustments to maintain production efficiency and operational stability.
• Support startup and commissioning activities for plant expansion projects, operational improvements, and equipment modifications.
• Collaborate with engineering and R&D teams on process optimization and operational improvement initiatives.
• Interpret P&IDs, equipment drawings, and IPL documentation for troubleshooting and process verification.
• Train and evaluate newly assigned operators on unit operations, equipment usage, and safety procedures.
• Maintain strict adherence to industrial safety standards, environmental compliance, and operational procedures.
• Operate forklifts and heavy industrial equipment in support of plant operations and material movement.
• Operate and maintain production equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimal downtime.
• Monitor quality control processes, identifying and resolving issues to maintain product standards.

• Conducted asset recovery operations while maintaining compliance with federal and state regulations.
• Maintained accurate documentation, reporting, and recordkeeping for all recovery activities and expenses.
• Utilized cameras, computers, and documentation equipment for evidence collection and reporting.
• Demonstrated strong conflict resolution, situational awareness, and professional communication skills.
• Analyzed asset recovery processes to identify improvement opportunities and enhance efficiency.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop strategies for maximizing recovered assets.
• Developed and maintained tracking systems for asset recovery progress and documentation accuracy.

• Owned and operated an independent personal services business, managing customer relations, scheduling, operations, and social media marketing.
• Maintained strict sanitation, sterilization, and safety procedures in compliance with health regulations.
• Managed client consultations, procedural education, and aftercare guidance.
• Developed strong customer service, business management, and communication skills.

• Supervised daily departmental operations, staffing, scheduling, and workflow management.
• Managed employee performance and ensured achievement of departmental sales goals.
• Resolved customer concerns while maintaining high service and operational standards.