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Ethanol Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Operator KAAPA is currently seeking a dedicated and hardworking Operator to join our team at the ... Previous experience in ethanol preferred. * Ability to work independently and manage time ...

Production Operator

Hastings, NE ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Operate, control and trouble-shoot process areas of ethanol production facility while maintaining quality and efficiency goals. Operator may work in different areas or positions including relief ...

Ethanol Technician

Cambria, WI ยท On-site

$24 - $30/hr

As an Ethanol Production Technician at our Cambria, WI location, you will play a crucial role in ... You will be responsible for operating and monitoring production equipment, ensuring quality control ...

Operate, control and trouble-shoot process areas of ethanol production facility while maintaining quality and efficiency goals. Operator may work in different areas or positions including relief ...

Production Operator

Lexington, NE ยท On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

Operate, control and trouble-shoot process areas of ethanol production facility while maintaining quality and efficiency goals. Operator may work in different areas or positions including relief ...

Operator

Merrill, IA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20/hr

Production Operator - Ethanol Plant Operations Merrill, Iowa Join a Team Where Your Work Actually Matters Plymouth Energy is seeking a Full-Time Production Operator for our ethanol facility in ...

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Ethanol Operator information

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How much do ethanol operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for ethanol operator in the United States is $20.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Ethanol Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Ethanol Operator, you need a solid understanding of chemical processing, mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with additional vocational training often preferred. Familiarity with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), industrial safety protocols, and possibly certifications like OSHA are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and teamwork are crucial soft skills that help operators maintain efficient and safe plant operations. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure consistent ethanol production, prevent accidents, and support overall plant productivity.

What is the difference between Ethanol Operator vs Ethanol Technician?

AspectEthanol OperatorEthanol Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety certificationsHigh school diploma, safety certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentProduction plants, industrial facilitiesProduction plants, maintenance areas
Job FocusOperating equipment, monitoring processesMaintaining equipment, troubleshooting issues

Both roles are essential in ethanol production, with the Ethanol Operator focusing on running the process and the Ethanol Technician handling maintenance and repairs. They often work together in the same industrial environment, sharing similar certifications and safety protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by Ethanol Operators during shift work, and how can they be managed?

Ethanol Operators often work in 24/7 production environments, which can involve rotating shifts and long hours. A common challenge is maintaining focus and safety during extended or overnight shifts, as fatigue can impact performance. To manage this, operators should prioritize rest, adhere to safety protocols, and communicate proactively with team members during shift handovers. Additionally, adapting to frequent changes in process conditions and troubleshooting equipment issues requires strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

What are Ethanol Operators?

Ethanol Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing the production process of ethanol, a type of biofuel, in manufacturing facilities. Their duties include monitoring equipment, controlling chemical processes, conducting quality checks, and ensuring safety and environmental regulations are followed. They often work with complex machinery and collaborate with engineers and technicians to optimize production efficiency. Ethanol Operators play a key role in helping facilities meet production goals while maintaining operational safety and compliance.
More about Ethanol Operator jobs
What states have the most Ethanol Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Ethanol Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ethanol Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,306 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Shipping & Receiving Operator - Hereford, TX

Hereford Ethanol Partners

Hereford, TX โ€ข On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Shipping & Receiving Operator
Job Summary:
This position is responsible for all duties related to the shipment and receiving of grain, storage and reclaim of grain, the loading/shipment of ethanol finished products and the loading and shipment of WDGS/co-product produced at the plant. This position works under the immediate supervision of the Shipping & Receiving Supervisor. It is expected that all work will be completed safely, in a timely manner, and with strict adherence to all plant policies and procedures.
Essential Functions include but are not limited to:
  • Operates and maintains all processes associated with grain receiving, grain storage, grain reclaim, and loading and shipment of ethanol finished product.
  • Unloads grain from trucks and railcars.
  • Loads ethanol into trucks and railcars.
  • Operates meters and bulk weighers to facilitate product loading and unloading.
  • Operates locomotives to move railcars on plant site to facilitate loading and unloading of product.
  • Operates large machinery and equipment such as front-end loaders, skid loaders, forklifts, boom lifts, locomotives, and utility vehicles.
  • Keep facility, control room, and break room clean including mopping and hosing down plant floors -tour ready conditions.
  • Responsible for inspecting equipment regularly and making sure it is in good working order. At times performing light preventive maintenance to equipment.
  • Work closely with maintenance and inform them of any mechanical problems.
  • Complete any and all tasks assigned by plant management.
  • Must be willing to work train on-call schedule when needed and available to work overtime as necessary.
  • Participate in safety programs and ongoing training sessions.
  • Required to follow all plant policies and procedures.

Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Requires a valid driver's license.
  • Ability to operate utility vehicles and heavy equipment & machinery.
  • Must be hard working and self-motivated.
  • Detail-oriented; proficiency for accuracy; dependable; positive attitude; team player.
  • Ability to multi-task and take ownership of assigned projects.
  • Good communication skills, both written and verbal, multi-tasking, detail-oriented, computer skills, and troubleshooting/problem solving skills.
  • No prior experience required.
  • Prior production experience is helpful.

Work Environment/Physical Demands:
  • Must be able to manage confined space entry, at times work in confined spaces, climb ladders and stairs, lift up to 60 lbs., and work at heights.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to work near moving mechanical parts.
  • The employee is regularly exposed to dusty conditions.
  • The employee is regularly exposed to high noise environments.
  • The employee is regularly exposed to outside weather in all conditions.
  • The employee will regularly be exposed to chemicals used in the process.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. These requirements are to be used as a guideline. Other duties may be assigned as deemed by management.
It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities and we will not unlawfully consider any factors of race, religion, age, creed, national origin, gender, disability veteran status or any and all other unlawful biases regarding federal, state or local laws with regard to workers or applicants.
Hereford Ethanol Partners, L.P. participates in E-Verify. We will provide the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employer's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.