What are the responsibilities and job description for the Biochar Reactor Operator position at Robinson Lumber Company?
Location: Alexandria, Louisiana
Department: Robinson Carbon — Biochar Production
Employment Type: Full-time
Reports To: Production Lead
Pay Range: Commensurate with experience
Summary
Robinson Carbon is hiring a Biochar Reactor Operator to run our BET PRD1000 pyrolysis reactor at our Alexandria, Louisiana facility. This is a hands-on role at the front edge of what we're building: real production, real equipment, real stakes. We're a lumber company that got into biochar because we know wood, know biomass, and know how to operate — what we're looking for now is someone who wants to learn the production side of this industry from the ground up, with a team that's serious about doing it right.
Key Responsibilities
- System Operation: Operate the pyrolysis reactor using a Human Machine Interface (HMI) screen; monitor and set critical process parameters including temperatures, feedstock input rates, and biochar output collection
- Quality Control & Testing: Perform regular sample collection of feedstock and finished biochar; conduct basic sample preparation and lab testing to confirm product quality meets specifications, and record data accurately
- Material Management: Maintain feedstock input buffer bins at optimal levels for continuous operation; coordinate collection and movement of finished biochar to designated storage areas
- Preventative Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance, including lubrication of moving parts such as chains and bearings, to keep the system running smoothly
- Troubleshooting & Repair: Diagnose and fix light to moderate mechanical issues, including clearing feedstock jams and cleaning system filters
- Equipment Operation: Safely operate forklifts and bucket loaders to move feedstock and finished biochar
- Safety Compliance: Follow all safety protocols, identify potential hazards, and use required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to maintain a zero-incident environment
Requirements & Qualifications
- Shift Flexibility: Available to work, day or night shifts as required by the production schedule
- Technical Aptitude: Comfortable using digital interfaces (HMI) with a strong mechanical aptitude for fixing equipment
- Experience: Previous experience operating high-temperature industrial equipment — boilers, industrial dryers, or high-temp ovens — preferred
- Forklift and Loader Skills: Proficiency operating a forklift and loader preferred
- Education: To be determined based on candidate background
- Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, climb ladders, and work in an industrial environment that may involve heat and dust
What We Offer
- Comprehensive on-the-job training on our proprietary pyrolysis technology and HMI systems
- A chance to work at the forefront of green energy and carbon sequestration technology
- The opportunity to help stand up production at a first-of-its-kind facility