Job Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Plant Operator to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for plant operations (either Slurry or Distillation & Evaporation) to ensure maximum quality and quantity in accordance with the company’s operation objectives . This role requires a strong attention to detail, the ability to work collaboratively, and a commitment to maintaining safety and quality standards. As a Plant Operator, you will play a crucial role in ensuring efficient production processes while adhering to company policies and procedures.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Able to read, understand and follow standard operating procedures for operation of plant and associated equipment.
• Collect timely samples from the front-end process or back-end process (proof & moisture)
• Accurate measure of ingredients when sending additions to a ferm
• Able to operate laboratory equipment and make technical readings from samples collected.
• Able to troubleshoot, anticipate and correct problems associated with plant operations. May need to inspect different areas of the plant to locate problems.
• Able to review the slurry and fermentation process to ensure accuracy and the highest quality of product. (Slurry Operator)
• Able to review the distillation and evaporation process to ensure accuracy and the highest quality of product. Certification of the ethanol before it can be transported. (D&E Operator)
• Follow the Operations Objectives to reach the facility’s performance objectives and overall goals.
• Communicate with the lab to anticipate or remedy any problems to ensure the highest quality and optimize the facility’s efficiency.
• Keep the facility clean and safe taking into account all local city, state and federal laws and regulations in all operations of the plant. General Housekeeping.
• Communicate with the maintenance department to anticipate or fix problems in a timely manner.
• Handle chemicals according to the MSDS safety sheets.
• Keep and record an accurate and timely log.
• Monitor, load and/or unload trucks such as but not limited to chemicals.
• Cross train with other operators to assure adequate coverage during unexpected interruptions in the plant. May need to watch the boards when a supervisor has to step away.
• Work with the training coordinator in understanding the process (why we are doing what we are doing) along with technical terms
• LOTO procedures and may need to enter a confined space (during Shutdown)
• Accurate measures/readings for inventory control.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Must possess excellent communication skills, time-management skills, multi-tasking, detail-oriented, computer skills and problem solving skills.

Education and Experience: No prior experience required. Prior production experience is helpful.

Physical Requirements: Must also be able to perform the following physical requirements, either with or without reasonable accommodation, which also constitute essential functions of the position:

• Ability to lift at least 50 lbs.
• Must have ability to work a 12-hour swing rotation shift and be willing to work overtime. May need to work outside during the night hours.
• Manage Confined Space Entry
• Shoveling of corn or other bulk materials and other duties involving strenuous physical labor.
• Ability to stand and/or walk for long periods of time.
• Able to work within facilities and outdoors, with exposure to large moving equipment, chemicals, loud noises, vibrations, dusty conditions, extreme temperatures
• Operate and manage general office equipment
• Able to freely access all areas of Company premises, including going up and down stairs
• Ability to climb and maintain balance on ladders and elevated walkways and work at heights of at least 30 feet but may extend to 150 feet such as top of grain leg (plugged leg or troubleshooting).
• Follow all safety precautions.
• Operate the JLG, fork lift, scissor lifts, skid loader/end loader.
• Occasional use of Homeland supplied power tools such as but not limited drills, impacts, grinders. Use of various hand tools such as wire cutters, screwdrivers and hammers.
• Occasional overhead work when troubleshooting or assisting maintenance.
• Frequent bending, stooping, crouching, kneeling, reaching, twisting and forward-bend standing.
• Use of a two-way radio for communication