Production Technician - Day Shift

At Houdek, we are pioneering sustainable solutions in agriculture by transforming soybeans into high-value ingredients that support animal health, environmental stewardship, and food system innovation. Based in Volga, South Dakota, we take pride in creating products that are rooted in science, powered by nature, and designed to make a meaningful difference.

We're growing fast and looking for people who want to be part of something bold and impactful. Our team works with purpose and pride, guided by the core values that shape our culture:

• Safety - We are committed to maintaining a safe, responsible, and healthy environment for all.
• Quality - From process to product, we hold ourselves to the highest standards.
• Respect - We foster a workplace where every voice matters and collaboration thrives.
• Transparency - We communicate clearly, honestly, and often with our teams and our partners.
• Innovation - We challenge convention, solve complex problems, and drive new possibilities every day.

If you're ready to join a team working toward a more sustainable future, we invite you to apply today!

POSITION SUMMARY:

Houdek is seeking an enthusiastic, team-oriented full-time Production Technician in a growing, fast-paced, product development-focused environment. This position offers the employee a unique opportunity to operate in both a laboratory and plant environment. This position works on a revolving 12-hour schedule, during the day shift.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Ensure raw materials and product are stored properly
• Operate production scale equipment in a safe manner
  • Milling equipment
  • Cooking system
  • Bioreactors
  • Centrifuge
  • Drying system
  • Blending and packaging systems
• Complete/maintain production records
• Monitor equipment performance, alert the equipment specialist about maintenance needs
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment
• Sample collection from production runs
• Assignments may vary from material handling, production process support/assistant, and entry-level type work.
• Willingness to fill various production positions
• Ability to follow safety procedures
• Ability to fill out safety forms such as LOTO and Confined Space Permits

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School diploma required
• Basic understanding of equipment and maintenance practices
• Ability to follow the company Standard Operating Procedures
• Strong technical and troubleshooting abilities preferred
• Able to read, analyze, and interpret documents
• Ability to lift up to 60 lbs
• Able to work with hand and power tools
• Proficient in Microsoft Programs
• This position is not eligible for sponsorship

COMPENSATION: Pay based on experience and education. Additional employee benefits include generous PTO, quarterly bonuses, 100% employee paid health, dental, vision, 15K basic life insurance, STD, LTD, 401K match, ten paid holidays, gym membership, yearly clothing allowance and more!

Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC dba Houdek is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Please note that submission of an application does not guarantee employment. As part of our hiring process, Houdek reserves the right to conduct background investigations, which may include verification of education, past employment, and professional references, as well as criminal history checks where permitted by law. Background checks will be conducted when deemed necessary and appropriate for the role being considered, and any such inquiries will be handled in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. A criminal conviction does not automatically disqualify a candidate from employment consideration. Each situation will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, considering the nature of the offense, its relevance to the role, and the time that has passed since the conviction. By submitting an application, you acknowledge that the information provided is accurate to the best of your knowledge and understand that falsification of information may result in removal from the hiring process or termination if already employed.