Lead Operator

Piper Maddox is hiring a Lead Operator for a biogas and RNG production facility in South Dakota, offering a salary of $90k-110k. This leadership role involves supervising a small team, managing plant operations, ensuring safety and compliance, and optimizing processes. Candidates should have experience in biogas or industrial gas processing and strong technical knowledge. This position is full-time and requires on-site presence.
Site in South Dakota

$90k-110k Base Salary

I am working with a fast-growing company in the renewable energy space that is seeking a Lead Operator to help manage day-to-day operations at a cutting-edge biogas and RNG production facility.

This is a key leadership position where you’ll supervise a small operations team, manage critical plant functions, and ensure peak performance across systems like digestion, gas upgrading, and automation. You'll play a central role in efforts to reduce emissions, improve reliability, and convert waste into clean, renewable fuel.

What You’ll Do:
• Supervise 4 site personnel including operators and maintenance technicians
• Oversee system performance and troubleshoot process issues
• Monitor SCADA-based operations and suggest control improvements
• Coordinate maintenance activities and third-party contractors
• Lead safety initiatives and regulatory compliance
• Conduct lab testing and interpret data for process optimization
• Maintain digital work orders and support on-call response
• Drive plant uptime and performance through smart, hands-on leadership

You’ll Succeed If You Have:
• Background in biogas, RNG, or industrial gas processing
• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, SCADA, and process operations
• Experience working with digesters, gas upgrading, or chemical processes
• Ability to lead teams and work independently in dynamic environments
• Comfort working around manure feedstock and chemicals with proper PPE
• Familiarity with confined space entry, CMMS, and basic lab analysis

This is an incredible opportunity for someone who wants to own a leadership role, bring technical expertise to a thriving clean energy project, and make a real impact in a growing industry.