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Full Time Ethanol Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Production Operator

Hastings, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $19.75/hr

Develop a personal knowledge of all aspects of ethanol plant, ethanol and co-product loadout and ... Our Benefits: This full-time position is eligible for full company benefits, including * Paid ...

Ethanol Technology Manager - Cedar Rapids, IA This is an exempt level position Position Summary The ... Mentor plant engineers and operators on process optimization and best practices. * Establish and ...

Plant Operator

North Branch, MN · On-site

$23 - $36/hr

... paper, ethanol, or dairy manufacturing * Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and perform ... The plant operator is expected to work a 40-hour work week and occasional overtime. This is a ...

Operator

Merrill, IA · 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 ...

Understanding of ethanol plant operations * Self- motivated * Ability to communicate verbally and in writing to others and work well as a team * Knowledge of Microsoft Office and other basic computer ...

The plant operator is expected to work a 40-hour work week and occasional overtime. This is a third ... paper, ethanol, or dairy manufacturing * Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and perform ...

Showing results 21-40

Full Time Ethanol Plant Operator information

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$13

$22

$39

How much do full time ethanol plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time ethanol plant operator in the United States is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a full time ethanol plant operator?

Full Time Ethanol Plant Operators are professionals responsible for overseeing and managing the daily operations of ethanol production facilities. Their duties include monitoring equipment, adjusting processes to ensure safety and efficiency, performing routine maintenance, and troubleshooting any technical issues that arise. They play a crucial role in producing ethanol by ensuring that the plant runs smoothly, meets production targets, and complies with environmental and safety regulations. The position typically requires knowledge of mechanical systems and process controls, as well as strong problem-solving skills.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a full time ethanol plant operator?

A Full Time Ethanol Plant Operator is responsible for monitoring and controlling the various systems involved in ethanol production, such as fermentation, distillation, and grain handling. Daily tasks include conducting equipment inspections, recording operational data, troubleshooting process issues, and performing routine maintenance to ensure smooth plant operations. Operators also collaborate closely with laboratory staff to maintain product quality and with maintenance teams to address mechanical issues promptly. Their vigilance and proactive approach are vital for maximizing plant efficiency, minimizing downtime, and ensuring safety standards are upheld.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time ethanol plant operator?

To thrive as a Full Time Ethanol Plant Operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, strong mechanical aptitude, and knowledge of industrial safety standards. Familiarity with process control systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and safety certifications like OSHA are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are soft skills that set top operators apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient plant operations and maintaining consistent product quality.

What is the difference between Full Time Ethanol Plant Operator vs Ethanol Plant Technician?

AspectFull Time Ethanol Plant OperatorEthanol Plant Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require technical certificationsSimilar credentials; technical certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentPlant floors, control rooms, and maintenance areasSimilar; often working alongside operators in plant settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by ethanol production facilitiesEmployed in similar facilities, focusing on equipment maintenance and troubleshooting

Both roles involve working in ethanol production plants with overlapping credentials and work environments. The main difference is that Full Time Ethanol Plant Operators primarily oversee daily plant operations, while Ethanol Plant Technicians focus more on equipment maintenance and technical troubleshooting. Both positions are essential for efficient ethanol production and often require similar certifications and work settings.

How much does a full time ethanol plant operator make?

A full-time ethanol plant operator typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and plant size. The role often requires knowledge of process control systems and safety protocols, with some positions offering overtime or shift differentials.

What cities are hiring for Full Time Ethanol Plant Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Full Time Ethanol Plant Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Ethanol Plant Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Ethanol Plant Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Full Time Ethanol Plant Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Full Time Ethanol Plant Operator jobs include:

Process Operator - Charles City Ethanol Plant

Valero

Charles City, IA • On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Valero rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Valero is the best-in-class producer of essential fuels and products that are foundational to modern life. We invite you to join our ~10,000 employees to drive exceptional results for our company, the energy industry and our community.

As a Process Operator you will oversee 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.

At Valero, we are committed to advancing the future of energy through innovation, ingenuity and unmatched execution. You can help achieve this goal if you can:

  • Monitor and control plant operations.
  • Review the operation of the plant constantly to monitor production and quality, anticipating and solving problems in a timely manner, and identifying opportunities for improvement.
  • Participate in projects that improve efficiency and/or reduce operating costs.
  • Document and monitor process variables, sample data and routine tasks as required for position, to ensure plant operations are maintained within operating parameters.    
  • Participate in Quality Assurance/Quality Control program, interprets results, and takes appropriate action when required. 
  • Communicate with all departments within the facility to ensure safe and efficient execution of daily plant activities. 
  • Monitor and troubleshoot process issues and equipment. 
  • Perform scheduled Operations Work Requests as requested by Supervisor or Plant Management.
  • Prepare equipment to ensure it is safe for maintenance/contractors to perform scheduled work.
  • Utilize company safe work practices to ensure all work is performed safely.
  • 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 plant cleanliness.
  • Monitor use and inventory of process chemicals and supplies. 
  • Perform other duties as assigned to maintain a safe, reliable, and consistent operation.
This position is hourly nonexempt status, which means you are eligible for overtime pay.
 
Please click on the following link to view what the Process Operator job involves on a day to day basis: Realistic Job Preview

Minimum Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED required. 
  • Able and willing to work on-site, in-person at the Valero Charles City Ethanol Plant required.

Preferred Requirements:

  • Associate Degree in Process Technology or equivalent preferred.
  • Experience in the operation of a dry-mill ethanol plant preferred.

Need more reasons to work for a company that is both professionally challenging and culturally rewarding?  Take a look at some of our best-in-class benefits:

  • Competitive Pay and Annual Bonus Program
  • 100% match on 401(K) up to 7%, plus additional discretionary 3% annual company contribution
  • Comprehensive Healthcare and Wellness Programs

Benefits described above are highlights only, subject to an employee's eligibility and work location.

Discover more about Charles City and how we're making a difference there.

Valero's pre-employment process includes successful completion of a background check and pre-employment drug screen.

Valero's employees and team-focused culture drive our success. We're invested in our dedicated workforce through a comprehensive, customizable benefits package, while supporting a caring culture that delivers a rewarding work environment built on teamwork, excellence and career growth. To explore the ways we build a stronger team, visit Valero.com/Careers.

Valero is an EEO Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to legally protected status, including race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Please be advised, if you are viewing this position on a website that lists an estimated salary rate/range, it was not provided by Valero.  Valero's market specific salary rate/range will be provided during the recruiting process and tends to be higher than what is estimated by such websites.  

*LI-LP1


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