The Dryer Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of the grain drying and co-products processing systems at the ethanol plant. This position plays a key role in ensuring the quality and consistency of Dried Distillers Grains with Solubles (DDGS) and other co-products, while supporting overall plant operations. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and committed to maintaining operational safety and product quality.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Drying Operations
- Operate and monitor grain dryers, conveyors, and related equipment used to produce DDGS and other co-products.
- Adjust equipment settings to maintain target moisture levels, throughput, and product quality.
- Monitor temperature, flow rates, and equipment performance using control systems and manual checks.
- Collect and test product samples for moisture, temperature, and quality assurance.
Equipment Monitoring & Maintenance
- Perform routine equipment inspections and minor maintenance (e.g., greasing bearings, changing belts, clearing plugs).
- Identify and report any mechanical issues or abnormalities to maintenance staff.
- Assist in equipment clean-outs and periodic shutdown/start-up procedures.
Safety & Compliance
- Follow all plant safety protocols and wear required personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Maintain a clean and safe work environment, ensuring compliance with OSHA and environmental regulations.
- Accurately document operating data, logs, and production reports.
Communication & Team Support
- Communicate effectively with shift supervisors, control room operators, and maintenance personnel.
- Coordinate with logistics and loadout teams to ensure smooth flow of product to storage and transport.
- Participate in cross-training and support other plant functions as needed.
Required Skills & Abilities:
· Must demonstrate reliability and punctuality to support 24/7/365 operations.
· Available for occasional 24/7 support and call-ins as needed.
· Possess strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues accurately, efficiently, and with a sense of urgency.
· Communicate clearly and professionally while fostering positive working relationships.
· Exhibit integrity and honesty in all interactions and responsibilities.
· Proactively identify tasks that need attention and exercise sound judgment in addressing them.
· Detail-oriented with strong planning and time management skills.
· Capable of working independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
· Able to work in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
· Must be able to work the required schedule, which includes arriving to work 15 minutes prior to start time, in order to do a proper shift exchange with the off going shift.
Education & Experience:
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Experience in grain handling, industrial drying, or ethanol/co-product processing a plus.
- Basic understanding of mechanical systems, instrumentation, and/or process control.
Physical Requirements:
· Climb open-grate metal stairs to elevations up to 150 feet off the ground.
· Climb fixed and movable ladders up to 40 feet high.
· Perform basic maintenance duties safely (adjust equipment, open/close tanks and heat exchangers, etc.)
· Work safely in confined spaces as needed and overhead work (reaching overhead and/or working on elevated equipment).
· Regular bending/kneeling/walking/climbing part of each day, depending on plant operations.
· Safely utilize forklifts and manlift.
· Ability to lift parts/tools/equipment/ingredient bags up to 50 lbs. and perform physical tasks such as climbing, bending, and standing for extended periods.
· Walking and working on flat surfaces, uneven surfaces, and grating platforms.
Working Conditions:
· Work is performed indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions – heat, cold, humidity, rain, snow, etc.
· Frequent exposure to noise, heights, moving equipment and mechanical parts, electricity, extremely hot and cold equipment and products that may be under extreme pressure, flammable materials, and dust/dirt/grease.
· May be exposed to toxic and/or caustic chemicals.
This job describes the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It does not state or imply that these are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to the job. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as requested by management. All requirements are subject to change over time and to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Profit sharing
- Referral program
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
