What are the responsibilities and job description for the Production Technician Days position at prairieaquatech?
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!
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC dba Houdek is a manufacturing company based in Volga South Dakota that is improving animal health and nutrition by providing high-quality feed ingredients. Using patent-pending technologies licensed on a worldwide, exclusive basis from South Dakota State University and developed internally, the Company is upgrading soybean meal to high-quality ingredients used in aquaculture and other animal feeds.
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 a plant environment. This position works on a revolving 12-hour schedule during the day shift.
RESPONSIBILITIES (including but are not limited to the following)
- Ensure raw materials and products 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.