Plant Operator

Sandhills Renewable Energy LLC is seeking a Plant Operator in Atkinson, NE. The role involves operating and monitoring the ethanol production process, including fermentation and distillation, under the supervision of the Operations Manager. Responsibilities include following safety protocols, maintaining logs, collecting samples, and assisting maintenance. The position requires a high school diploma, a valid driver's license, and offers 12-hour shifts with occasional overtime. No prior experience is required.
Status: Non-Exempt DEPARTMENT: Plant Production

REPORTS TO: Production Manager DATE PREPARED: January 2025


A. JOB SUMMARY:

This position requires accurate and accountable performance of all necessary duties to ensure safe and efficient operations in the fermentation and distillation areas of the facility. This position works under the immediate supervision of the Operations Manager and functionally reports to the Team Leader at the location.


B. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB (responsibilities or duties):

• 1 Learn all facets of the ethanol process including: cook, distillation, evaporation, dryers, thermo oxidizer, centrifuges, grain system, and water treatment.

• Learn and operate DCS (computer control system) for the plant.

• Follow Standard Operating Procedures for plant start-up, shut down, cleaning and batching.

• Stay within operating parameters set by Plant/Production Manager and notify management of any production problems.

• Keep accurate and timely logs.

• Collect samples and do the necessary tests to ensure consistent and quality product and record results.

• Monitor and adjust on the (DCS) computer according to the results of the samples and to keep within parameters and record changes.

• Keep facility, control room, and break room clean including mopping and hosing down plant floors – tour ready conditions.

• Keep operators, coming on shift, briefed on what has happened and what is supposed to be done during the next shift.

• Work closely with maintenance and inform them of any mechanical problems.

• Communicate with the Laboratory and learn testing procedures including but not limited to yeast counts, microwave analyzer, HPLC, and the GC.

• Responsible for notifying Production/ Plant Manager of any production problems.

• Complete any and all tasks assigned by the Plant Manager/Production Manager.

• Help out in other areas as needed.

• 12-hour shift work including a three-day weekend every other week. Day and Night positions available.

• Available occasionally for call in work and overtime.

• Participate in safety programs and ongoing training sessions.


C. MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Completes other tasks assigned by Production Manager or General Manager.

2. Assists where needed or requested.


D. DIRECT REPORTS or INDIRECT REPORTS:

None


F. QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent required

• Requires a valid driver’s license.

• Be able to operate utility vehicle.

• Must be hard working and self-motivated

• Detail-oriented; proficiency for accuracy; dependable; positive attitude; team player.

• Ability to multi-task and take ownership of assigned projects.

• Good communication skills, both written and verbal.

• No experience necessary.

• Experience in industrial production plants helpful.

• Maintaining a thorough understanding of applicable regulatory requirements of FRA, TTB and state regulations.

• Valid driver’s license required.


F. QUALIFICATIONS


2. EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

o No experience required. Some experience in manufacturing and/or distribution industry is helpful;

o High school diploma or GED;

o Equivalent years of experience and/or education.


3. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS (defined by Americans with Disabilities Act)


PHYSICAL DIMENSIONS for Lifting, Carrying, Pushing, Pulling: Medium Heavy: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 35 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 15 pounds of force constantly to move objects.


Note: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described above are representative of those that will be encountered by a person performing the essential duties and responsibilities of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform those duties and responsibilities.