Process Operator

Reports to: Lab Manager

The Process Operator is responsible for the safe operation of all plant processing equipment in a highly automated chemical facility. Operators are required to maintain knowledge of the process flow, computerized equipment and be aware of hazards associated with the process. The team member in this position is responsible for understanding and executing standard operating procedures and is expected to ensure proper response during normal and abnormal operating situations. Additionally, operators are responsible for communicating process events to both the management team and on-coming shift team members. Continuous plant operation requires 12-hour shift work. Team member must be able to adapt to 12-hour workdays and nights and be able to meet call-in requirements as needed.

Essential Functions

1. Coordinate work functions with fellow team members and other departments within RRE.

2. Follow all established RRE policies and procedures.

3. Learn and operate the Distribution Control System (DCS) and other processes associated with the plant operations.

4. Open valves or start pumps, agitators, blowers or automatic feed of materials.

5. Inspect equipment or units to detect leaks or malfunctions, shutting equipment down if necessary.

6. Collect and test quality control samples on all product streams and interpret QA/QC results and take action when required.

7. Assure timely and accurate daily documentation of all process information is completed and sample results are entered into the computer/Fermcast.

8. Discuss any problems or unsafe conditions with the management team.

9. Maintain a clean facility and follow the sanitation schedule completing all tasks as assigned.

10. Occasionally assist the maintenance department with routine tasks such as assembling and disassembling equipment, rigging and cleaning filters.

11. May load and unload bulk chemical trucks while maintaining a high level of safety and customer service.

12. May load trucks with product (distillers, syrup, corn oil, etc.) using meters or scales ensuring timely delivery of product.

13. Understand and follow plant operating procedures for start-up, shut-down, temporary and emergency operations.

14. Utilize process data, trend analysis and training to monitor, troubleshoot and respond to process conditions to optimize plant operation.

15. Attend and participate in shift exchange meetings at beginning and end of shift with oncoming/outgoing team members of the previous shift events and current process status.

16. Participate in all health, safety and environmental programs; maintain self-awareness on safety issues and requirements and report any safety concerns immediately to the EH&S department.

17. Perform equipment preparation and lockout for maintenance activities including line break and confined space entry.

18. Create work requests using Mapcon to inform maintenance staff of identified equipment repairs needed.

19. Provide knowledge sharing and training with other team members.

20. Operate and maintain equipment including, but not limited to: tele-handler, skid steers, tractors, ATV's, pay loaders, forklifts and man-lifts.

21. Responsible for notifying management team of environmental, quality and production concerns, problems and opportunities.

22. Perform all tasks associated with Feed Safety/Quality, assigned or as needed, to meet internal and external requirements relating to the production of safe, quality feed products.

23. Foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance at all times.

24. Work in an honest and ethical manner; maintain confidentiality on all business related matters.

25. Team member is expected to physically report to work on time at their assigned location and is seldom absent.

26. Team member can be depended upon to complete work in a timely, accurate and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.

27. Maintain a team environment with other departments at all times.

28. Champion RRE in the community.

29. Maintain a high level of customer service and friendly atmosphere.

30. Other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience Requirements

To perform the essential functions of this position successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

· High school diploma or equivalent required.

· Secondary education and/or certifications beneficial.

· Experience in production environment preferred.

· Working knowledge in math, reading comprehension and mechanical reasoning required.

· Strong troubleshooting and problem solving skills are required.

· Forklift certification (or ability to achieve) required as well as a valid driver’s license.

· Knowledge in Word, Excel, and Outlook and the ability and willingness to learn new software applications.

· Excellent organizational skills, communications skills, the ability to multi-task, attention to detail and most importantly, the ability to work well in a team.

Work Conditions/Physical Requirements

This position is largely self-directed and requires a thorough understanding of company policy, procedures and values. Team members will be required to adhere to safety requirements at all times and in all work environments. This position operates in both an office and plant environment. In the office, the team member will work on a shared computer. In the plant environment, the team member may be exposed to noise, heat and other elements both inside and outside as well as possible exposure to moving, mechanical parts, dust, high noise levels, internal and external temperature/weather conditions and exposure to chemicals.

Specific physical requirements include:

· Occasionally lifting weight up to sixty (60) pounds.

· Climbing several flights of stairs and ladders.

· Opening valves.

· Occasionally bending, twisting and turning while lifting weight of less than fifty (50) pounds.

· Data entry while seated for greater than one (1) hour.

· Walking up to two (2) or more miles per day.

· Pushing brooms, shovels, etc.

· Working at heights, in confined spaces and at temperatures from -20 to +100 degrees.

· Standing for extended periods of time.

· Wearing PPE

· Using hand and power tools.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Retirement plan

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person