Company Overview
West Biofuels, LLC is a leader in the bioenergy industry that developed, constructed, and now operates the Hat Creek Bioenergy facility in Burney, California. Our fully operational, state of the art facility uses advanced technology to generate renewable, reliable power while supporting local forest health and improving community safety through sustainable biomass utilization.
We are committed to developing the next generation of skilled operators and technicians. West Biofuels offers hands on training, mentorship, and long term career opportunities in clean energy operations while making a positive impact in the communities we serve.
Job Summary
The Plant Operator Apprentice/Trainee position is an entry level opportunity for individuals interested in learning how to operate and maintain a modern biomass power plant. Under the guidance of experienced operators and supervisors, trainees will learn to safely monitor and operate plant systems, use computerized control systems, assist with maintenance activities, and develop the skills needed to advance into a fully qualified Plant Operator role.
This position is well suited for students or graduates of trade schools, technical programs, or individuals seeking to build a career in industrial operations, power generation, or renewable energy.
Key Responsibilities
- With training and supervision, the Plant Operator Trainee will:
- Learn to safely operate and monitor bioenergy plant systems during assigned shifts
- Assist with the operation of biomass fuel handling, feeding systems, gasifier, combustor, thermal oil heater, and turbine generator
- Monitor plant operations using a computerized SCADA control system and camera systems
- Follow all plant safety, environmental, and regulatory procedures
- Make accurate logbook entries and assist with routine reporting
- Identify equipment abnormalities and report issues to senior operators
- Assist with preventative maintenance tasks and minor repairs
- Support maintenance outages and plant shutdowns as needed
- Learn and comply with lock out/tag out, hot work, and confined space procedures
- Assist with biomass fuel unloading, storage, and handling operations
- Participate in training activities and progressively take on increased responsibility
- Maintain a professional and safety focused attitude at all times
- Supports company values, spirit, ethics and safety.
- Maintains a safe work environment.
Qualifications
- Required/Entry Level:
- Strong interest in industrial operations, mechanical or electrical systems, or renewable energy
- Willingness to learn, follow instructions, and work safely in an industrial environment
- Basic mechanical aptitude and familiarity with hand tools (school or shop experience acceptable)
- Basic understanding of motors, pumps, valves, sensors, or electrical systems
- Familiarity with technical manuals, diagrams, or operating procedures
- Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
- Ability to perform basic math (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
- Experience using computers or Microsoft Office software
- Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand, walk, or sit for extended periods
- Valid driver’s license
Preferred (Not Required):
- Any prior experience in an industrial, manufacturing, power plant, mill, or shop environment
- Forklift, man lift, or loader experience (training and certification available)
- Enrollment in or completion of a trade, technical, or vocational program (mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, power generation, or similar)
What We Offer
- Hands on training with experienced plant operators
- Exposure to state of the art renewable energy technology
- Clear career progression from trainee to qualified operator
- Competitive pay commensurate with experience and training level
- A safety focused, team oriented work environment
- The opportunity to build a meaningful career supporting clean energy and local forest health
Pay: $23.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
