Position Summary:

Utility Operators are a supporting position for the operations teams. They are responsible for the operation of the plant to ensure maximum production and quality control by monitoring plant processes and equipment. Utility Operators will be expected to learn all areas of the plant of a short period of time; to include Distillation & Evaporation, Cook, Energy Center and Board Operations. They will also be expected to learn the process of Ethanol manufacturing and co-products and the equipment used in this process. They may also be utilized in the maintenance and material handling departments as needed. This position requires a great deal of flexibility and the ability to adapt to change.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Utility Operators will work a 12-hour shift, rotating schedule (every six weeks- 5:45am-5:45pm or 5:45pm-5:45am)

• Ensure that processes are operated in a safe, timely and cost-effective manner.
• Communicate regularly with all process operators, both individually and as a group to maintain consistent operation among the shifts. This is to include both written and verbal communication. Follow all plant policies and procedures. This includes safety, operations and company policies.
• Ensure the plant is clean and organized by following all housekeeping rules, schedules, and guidelines.
• Work on call as needed including call-ins and vacation coverage.

2. Help monitor and control plant operations

• Work with plant DCS& PLC control systems.
• Have basic computer skills and be familiar with windows-based software.
• Responsible for the Distillation and Evaporation areas to include but not limited to sampling, monitoring, and adjusting the process to assure proper performance and product specifications are met.
• Responsible for all tank farm activities including transfers, truck loading and off-loading.
• Field monitor equipment and help troubleshoot plant operation issues.
• Help with the maintenance and upkeep of plant process areas and plant equipment. Report possible maintenance issues via plant CMMS system.
• The operations group will also help with the grain handling and shipping/receiving areas of the plant.

3. Participates in Quality Assurance Program

• Communicates directly with QA lab to ensure effective participation in the implementation of QA policies and procedures.
• Sample and test process streams as required by the QA program and procedures. Work with shift supervisor to adjust and control process based on these results.
• Maintain QA records, logs and spreadsheets; as well as field readings and housekeeping records.
• Understand and interpret QA result and take appropriate effective action when required.

4. Participates in plant maintenance program (CMMS)

• Communicates directly with the maintenance department to coordinate maintenance and repair work in process areas.
• Performs daily preventative maintenance activities as scheduled and/or directed.
• Assists maintenance technicians in performing maintenance and repairs.
• Assists with diagnosing and trouble-shooting maintenance related issues.

5. Participates in safety, health and environmental programs

• Knows and understands city, county, state and federal regulations relating to process operations and works in a manner to ensure that these regulations are met at all times.
• Participates in plant safety education and training programs and must follow all procedures at all times. This will include monthly, quarterly and annual training sessions.

6. Other

• Implements programs and procedures required to ensure plant cleanliness.
• Monitor the use and inventories of process chemicals.
• Trained and certified on the use of all company rolling stock.

Qualifications:

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must have expertise and proficiency with basic office software including word processing, email and spreadsheets.
• Must have the ability to work effectively with computerized maintenance management system.
• Effective oral and written communication skills as well as time management skills.
• Must have the ability to work both days and nights, schedule is a rotating 12-hour shift.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to working near moving mechanical parts.
• The employee is occasionally exposed to wet or humid conditions; must be able to climb ladders and work in high, precarious places; and outdoor weather conditions.
• The employee may be occasionally exposed to high noise environments.
• Must have the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.