Biofuel Technician - Nights

The Biofuel Technician at Fox River Valley Ethanol in Oshkosh, WI, operates and monitors biofuel production equipment, ensuring safe and compliant operations. Responsibilities include troubleshooting issues, maintaining quality, adhering to safety protocols, and collaborating with team members. The role requires reliability, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently or in a team. A high school diploma is required, along with experience in industrial operations or biofuel production.
The Biofuel Technician plays a critical role in the operation and optimization of the biofuel production processes at Fox River Valley Ethanol. This position ensures efficient, safe, and environmentally compliant production of ethanol and its by-products by monitoring, documenting, troubleshooting production activities, and adhering to operational protocols, all while keeping others informed of problems or potential problems as indicated.


Duties and Responsibilities:



Production Operations:
Operate and monitor plant equipment (3 Stations – cook, distillation, Dryers).
Start/stop control pumps, fans, and conveyors.
Follow written procedures (SOPs).
Monitor and adjust flows, temperatures, pressures, etc, to maintain product quality and yield.
Safety and Compliance:
Adhere to all safety protocols and ensure compliance with OSHA and environmental regulations.
Confined space entry for cleaning and maintenance activities.
Participate in safety drills and report any hazards or incidents promptly.
Maintain good housekeeping (sweep floors, shovels spills, clean sample containers and buckets, etc.).
Quality Assurance:
Collect and analyze samples from various stages of production to ensure specifications are met. (pH, solids, proof, etc.).
Maintenance and Troubleshooting:
Perform routine maintenance and assist with equipment repairs as needed.
Troubleshoot process problems to minimize downtime.
Assist with maintenance tasks as needed.
Documentation and Reporting:
Maintain accurate records of production data, maintenance activities, and incidents.
Prepare daily shift reports for review by the oncoming shift.
Log process data on paper and in the computer.
Team Collaboration:
Work closely with colleagues in production, quality control, and maintenance teams to achieve operational goals.
Provide training and guidance to new team members as required.

Required Skills & Abilities:


· Must demonstrate reliability and punctuality to support 24/7/365 operations.


· Available for occasional 24/7 support and call-ins as needed.


· Possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues accurately, efficiently, and with a sense of urgency.


· Communicate clearly and professionally while fostering positive working relationships.


· Exhibit integrity and honesty in all interactions and responsibilities.


· Proactively identify tasks that need attention and exercise sound judgment in addressing them.


· Detail-oriented with strong planning and time management skills.


· Capable of working independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.


· Able to work in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple tasks and priorities effectively.


· Must be able to work the required schedule, which includes arriving to work 15 minutes prior to start time, in order to do a proper shift exchange with the off going shift.


Education & Experience:



High school diploma or equivalent required.
Experience in industrial operations, manufacturing, or biofuel production is an advantage.
Basic understanding of mechanical systems, instrumentation, and/or process control.

Physical Requirements:


· Climb open-grate metal stairs to elevations up to 150 feet off the ground.


· Climb fixed and movable ladders up to 40 feet high.


· Perform basic maintenance duties safely (adjust equipment, open/close tanks and heat exchangers, etc.).


· Work safely in confined spaces as needed and overhead work (reaching overhead and/or working on elevated equipment).


· Regular bending/kneeling/walking/climbing part of each day, depending on plant operations


· Safely utilize forklifts and manlift.



Ability to lift parts/tools/equipment/ingredient bags up to 50 lbs. and perform physical tasks such as climbing, bending, and standing for extended periods.
Walking and working on flat surfaces, uneven surfaces, and grating platforms.

Working Conditions:


· Work is performed indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions – heat, cold, humidity, rain, snow, etc.


· Frequent exposure to noise, heights, moving equipment and mechanical parts, electricity, extremely hot and cold equipment and products that may be under extreme pressure, flammable materials, and dust/dirt/grease.


· May be exposed to toxic and/or caustic chemicals.


This job describes the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It does not state or imply that these are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to the job. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as requested by management. All requirements are subject to change over time and to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.


Benefits:



401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Employee assistance program
Health insurance
Health savings account
Life insurance
Paid time off
Referral program
Tuition reimbursement
Vision insurance

Work Location: In person