Production/Process Operator

We are seeking an ambitious Production / Process Operator.

Reports to: Shift Manager

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Schedule: 12-hour rotating shift schedule

 

Who is Aztalan Bio?

Aztalan’s story is just beginning, and you can be part of it!  ClonBio Group acquired Wisconsin’s largest ethanol plant in 2022 located in the village of Aztalan, just outside Jefferson, WI.  The facility will process 40 million bushels of locally grown feed corn per year, turning that into food-grade corn oil, vegetable protein concentrates and isolates for food applications, aquaculture feeds, renewable natural gas, organic fertilizer, ethanol, and dietary fiber for foods, among other things.  We are scheduled to start the facility in the fall of 2023 and are currently hiring! 

Aztalan’s sister facility, Pannonia Bio in Hungary is one of the most technologically advanced grain biorefineries in the world.  Over the next several years, Aztalan will invest hundreds of millions of dollars into a biorefinery transformation every bit as innovative as Pannonia’s but uniquely suited to Wisconsin’s strengths.  Aztalan Bio is owned by ClonBio Group who is family-owned and invests in their people for long-term success.  We have a dedicated internal team of engineers and scientists from 23 countries and 5 continents, an investment in people that explains why ClonBio’s biorefineries are so technologically advanced. 

Position Overview

Oversees the daily operation of an assigned area of the production process within the plant. Working a 12-hour rotating shift schedule while maintaining a safe work environment. Monitors and maintains production quality and equipment, while supporting the policies, goals, and objectives of the Company.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Monitor the operation of the plant constantly to monitor production and quality, anticipating and solving problems in a timely manner, and identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Troubleshoot, anticipate and correct problems associated with plant operations. May need to inspect different areas of the plant to locate problems.
• Review the slurry and fermentation process to ensure accuracy and the highest quality of product. (Slurry Operator)
• Review the distillation and evaporation process to ensure accuracy and the highest quality of the product. Certification of the ethanol before it can be transported. (D&E Operator)
• Document and monitor process variables, sample data and routine tasks as required for position, to ensure plant operations are maintained within operating parameters.
• Monitor use and inventories of process chemicals and supplies.
• Communicate with the lab to anticipate or remedy any problems to ensure the highest quality and optimize the facility’s efficiency.
• Communicate with the maintenance department to anticipate or fix problems in a timely manner. Prepare equipment to ensure it is safe for maintenance/contractors to perform scheduled work.
• Handle chemicals according to the MSDS safety sheets.
• Cross train with other operators to assure adequate coverage during unexpected interruptions in the plant. May need to watch the boards when a supervisor has to step away.
• Participate in projects that improve efficiency and/or reduce operating costs.
• Perform scheduled Operations Work Requests as requested by Supervisor or Plant Management.
• Participate in safety, health, and environmental programs (LOTO-lock out tag out, Safe Work Permit, FSMA-Food Safety Modernization Act). Participate in programs and procedures required to ensure safe work practices and plant cleanliness.
• Perform other duties as assigned to maintain a safe, reliable, and consistent operation.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• 0-2 Years’ relevant experience.
• Associate degree in Process Technology or equivalent is preferred.
• Experience in an Ethanol Processing plant preferred.
• Able to read, understand and follow standard operating procedures for operation of plant and associated equipment.
• Basic computer operation and data entry skills.
• Excellent communication, time management, multi-tasking, and problem skills.
• Strong attention to detail.

 

Work Environment & Physical Demands (choose only the ones that apply)

• Noise level in the work environment is moderate. Occasional exposure to high noise levels
• Employee may be exposed to work near moving mechanical parts
• Occasional exposure to chemicals used in the process
• Humid conditions and outdoor weather conditions including extreme heat and cold
• Personal Protective Equipment such as safety glasses, steel-toed boots, flame-resistant clothing, and hearing protection will regularly be required (or may be required)
• Regularly required to walk, sit, talk, and hear.
• The employee is occasionally required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and may occasionally be required to climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and may occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• The employee will be required to do some walking/climbing stairs and occasional use of ladders
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 

Aztalan Bio LLC provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.