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Ethanol Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Biorefinery Process Operator Nevada, IA Competitive Hourly Rates based on experience. The ... About Verbio This location is the site of the former DuPont cellulosic ethanol facility. At this ...

Biorefinery Process Operator Nevada, IA Competitive Hourly Rates based on experience. The ... About Verbio This location is the site of the former DuPont cellulosic ethanol facility. At this ...

The Operator performs multiple functions inland / water side fuel storage facility. This is a 365 ... Unloading rail cars of ethanol setting up for shipping out and receiving cars in. * Processing ...

Fuel Storage Facility Operator Sunoco LP is a leading energy infrastructure and fuel distribution ... Unloading rail cars of ethanol setting up for shipping out and receiving cars in. * Processing ...

The Operator performs multiple functions inland / water side fuel storage facility. This is a 365 ... ethanol & gasoline trucks, etc.) • Requires PIC training for fueling tugs, barges, sea going ...

The Operator performs multiple functions inland / water side fuel storage facility. This is a 365 ... ethanol & gasoline trucks, etc.) • Requires PIC training for fueling tugs, barges, sea going ...

Process Operator

West Burlington, IA

$18.25 - $23/hr

Process Operators create American made, high quality ethanol and animal feed. Big River Resources provides employees with excellent benefits, growth opportunities and a family oriented atmosphere

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Ethanol Operator information

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$12

$20

$29

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.

Production/Process Operator

Aztalan Bio LLC

Johnson Creek, WI • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description:

Join a team that helps produce renewable fuel for the future. We are hiring a Production Operator to support our ethanol plant operations, where safety, reliability, and continuous improvement are at the core of everything we do. This position works a 2-2-3 rotating schedule with 12-hour shifts, alternating between day and night shifts every six weeks, and plays a key role in ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable plant operations. We offer a competitive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance; additional ancillary plans; a 401(k) with company match; paid time off; and sick time.

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.

Who is Aztalan Bio?

Located outside Jefferson, WI - Aztalan Bio is a biorefinery that utilizes a dry front-end fractionation system which separates corn components (starch, protein, germ) before the distillation process, leading to a wider range of products and potentially higher efficiency - producing corn oil, ethanol, corn germ, bran, and distillers’ grains. These outputs support a wide range of markets, including food production, animal nutrition, and renewable energy.


The plant has been in operation since 1898, first as a malting company and then, in 2006, was converted to ethanol production, becoming Wisconsin’s largest ethanol operation. Over the coming years, Aztalan Bio will undergo a similar transformation to its sister facility, Pannonia Bio in Hungary, to create a next-generation biorefinery tailored to Wisconsin’s agricultural strengths and diversity.


Building on more than a century of history, this next chapter is about investing in people, progress, and community. With the revitalization of this historic plant and the hiring of a new workforce, we are creating opportunities for local employees while reinforcing generations of partnership with farmers.


Aztalan Bio is owned by ClonBio Group who is family-owned and invests in their people for long-term success.

Requirements:

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:

  • 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 accommodation 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.