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Overnight Ethanol Plant Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CORN, LP

Ethanol Protein Operator

Goldfield, IA · On-site

$25/hr

You'll collaborate with your team to maintain the continuous operation of our ethanol plant ... Become our Ethanol Protein Operator today! Job Posted by ApplicantPro

Valero

Process Operator - Lakota Ethanol Plant

Lakota, IA

$18.50 - $23.25/hr

As a Process Operator you will oversee the daily operation of an assigned area of the production ... Experience in the operation of a dry-mill ethanol plant preferred. Need more reasons to work for a ...

Valero

Process Operator - Albion Ethanol Plant

Albion, NE · On-site

$19.50 - $24.50/hr

As a Process Operator you will oversee the daily operation of an assigned area of the production ... Experience in the operation of a dry-mill ethanol plant preferred. Need more reasons to work for a ...

Valero

Shipping & Receiving Operator - Ethanol Plant

Hartley, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

... Operator you will be responsible for unloading raw materials and loading ethanol and distiller's grain, work 12-hour rotating day shifts, as well as the movement of trucks and rails cars on the plant ...

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Overnight Ethanol Plant Operator information

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How much do overnight ethanol plant operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for overnight 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 does an overnight ethanol plant operator do?

An Overnight Ethanol Plant Operator is responsible for monitoring and managing the production processes at an ethanol plant during nighttime hours. Their duties include operating and adjusting machinery, performing routine maintenance, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and recording production data. They also troubleshoot equipment issues and respond to alarms to ensure continuous and efficient plant operations throughout the night. This role is essential to maintaining 24/7 plant productivity and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an overnight ethanol plant operator?

To thrive as an Overnight Ethanol Plant Operator, you need a solid understanding of industrial process operations, basic mechanical skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent, with some employers preferring postsecondary training in process technology. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), safety protocols, and routine maintenance tools is typically required, and OSHA safety certifications can be advantageous. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for this role. These skills are vital to ensure safe, efficient plant operations and quick response to any issues during overnight shifts.

What are some common challenges faced by overnight ethanol plant operators, and how can they be managed?

Overnight Ethanol Plant Operators often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, maintaining safety standards during limited staffing hours, and managing fatigue due to the night shift schedule. To address these, operators rely on thorough training, regular communication with day shift teams, and adherence to established safety and maintenance protocols. Developing strong problem-solving skills and maintaining clear documentation during shift handovers are also crucial for ensuring smooth operations and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Overnight Ethanol Plant Operator vs Day Ethanol Plant Operator?

AspectOvernight Ethanol Plant OperatorDay Ethanol Plant Operator
Work ScheduleOvernight shifts, typically 10-12 hoursDay shifts, usually 8-10 hours
CertificationsSimilar certifications required, such as process operation and safety trainingSame certifications as overnight roles
Work EnvironmentSame plant environment, different shift timingSame plant environment, different shift timing
Industry UsageCommon in 24/7 ethanol production facilitiesCommon in ethanol plants with multiple shifts

Both Overnight and Day Ethanol Plant Operators perform similar duties, including monitoring processes, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety. The main difference lies in their shift timing, with overnight operators working during night hours. Certifications and work environment are generally consistent across both roles, catering to continuous ethanol production facilities.

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Overnight Ethanol Plant Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Overnight Ethanol Plant Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,521 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Ethanol Plant Operator

Garden City, KS • On-site

Conestoga Energy Partners LLC
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Conestoga Energy Partners LLCexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to be part of a team fueling the future of renewable energy? We're looking for a Plant Operator to join our ethanol production team. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on work, problem-solving, and contributing to a safe and efficient plant environment.What You'll DoAs a Plant Operator, you'll play a key role in keeping our operations running smoothly and safely. Your responsibilities will include:Collecting and analyzing samples throughout the ethanol process (Milling, Cook, Fermentation, Evaporation, Distillation/Dehydration, Centrifuges/Dryers, and Water Treatment).Reporting process variances to the Board Operator and Lead Operator for corrective action.Learning and applying safe handling procedures for chemicals used in production.Operating and monitoring the plant through our Distributed Control System (DCS).Assisting with troubleshooting and supporting team members across plant processes.Performing light-duty maintenance and cleaning tasks.Managing inventory and following Standard Operating Procedures for chemical additions.Upholding our safety-first culture at all times.This role is part of a four-member crew, with initial one-on-one day-shift training for six weeks before transitioning into the rotating schedule.  Scheduled consists of 2 weeks days and 2 weeks nights.What We're Looking ForRequired QualificationsHigh School Diploma or GED.Ability to follow direction, Standard Operating Procedures, and work safely.Strong teamwork and communication skills.Ability to work independently and as part of a crew.Comfortable working at heights, outdoors in varying conditions, and in moderate noise levels.Basic English skills (read, write, speak, comprehend).Commitment to safety above all else.Preferred Qualifications6+ months of experience in a similar role within an ethanol or process plant.Previous plant or industrial work experience.Why Join Us?Hands-on training and growth opportunities.Be part of a supportive, team-oriented environment.Contribute to a company focused on innovation and renewable energy.