Biodiesel Operator

Total Number of Openings

1

Operates and monitors company plants and facilities, typically Upstream facilities after primary separation and processing (such as gas and co-gen plants) and Downstream & Chemical refineries and plants. Monitors process variables, troubleshoots, and performs interventions to maintain operating performance.

Performs routine assignments under general supervision.  Gaining knowledge of work procedures and practices.  

Specialty Operations business unit is accepting online applications for the position of Biodiesel Operator at our Danville, IL plant, through May 31st, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (CST)

The purpose of this job is to assist in manufacturing biodiesel. This position requires flexibility in job responsibilities to support various aspects of operations. All technicians are expected to be able to perform all job tasks.

Responsibilities for this position may include but are not limited to:

Safety

• Support our vision zero policy to eliminate any recordable incidents or injuries.

• Safety, loss control & environmental responsibilities include:

• Utilizing the proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to accomplish the job tasks

• Being aware and making management aware of potentially hazardous conditions

• Locating and correcting noticeable odors, leaks or visible emissions

• Prepare equipment for mechanical repairs, clear, lockout/tagout and assist with repairs as needed.

• Manage hazardous waste.

• Follow all safety guidelines regulated by REG, OSHA, or other regulatory agencies.

• Learn and assist with general facility maintenance and housekeeping, including equipment inspection and monitoring throughout the facility.

• Maintain clean work environment in all areas of the process.

Biodiesel System Operations

• Follow standard safety, operational, and quality procedures.

• Assist in load out and receiving functions, which include preparing trucks and rail cars for shipment and loading products (oils and fats, process ingredients, and process chemicals).

• Learn to manufacture and load specialty oil products and properly document work completed.

• Monitor operating equipment (pumps, valves, pressure/temperature readings, fans and chemical treatment systems) designed to control the variables of the water treatment systems.

• Assist with weekly and monthly inspections of the rotating equipment and safety equipment such as fire monitors, fire extinguishers and hoses.

• Keep an open line of communication between inside and outside operating personnel and report all abnormalities.

• Operate forklift and rail equipment.

• Learn how to read drawings and piping & instrumentation diagrams (P&ID).

• Learn to operate the biodiesel master control system. This includes operations of the main master control, process production system, along with recording data and generating system reports on a timely basis.

• Perform minor mechanical repairs.

Quality Control

• Learn to perform various quality control functions for: oil, biodiesel, glycerin, recovered fatty acid, and water.

• Perform visual inspection of all types of inventories and measuring physical inventory on a periodic basis, which may involve working at heights.

• Operation of lab equipment to ensure sample quality.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Required qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent

• General knowledge of computers, basic mechanical and electrical skills, and attention to detail

• Ability to learn how to operate plant control systems

• Ability to learn how to operate forklift, locomotive, pallet jack, pallet wrapper, and rail switches

• Ability to learn chemical and biodiesel processing as well as BQ-9000 quality requirements

• Knowledge of arithmetic and its application

• Be available for overtime as required

Preferred qualifications:

• 6-12 months’ general work experience

• General knowledge of computers, basic mechanical and electrical skills, and attention to detail

• Previous chemical processing or related experience

• Ability to communicate both orally and in writing

• Ability to work independently, or as part of a team

• Ability to organize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously to meet deadlines
  Ability to assist in continuous improvement of the plant