Process Operator – Automation

Feed Energy; Pacific Junction (IA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nutrition solutions firm in Pacific Junction is seeking an Operator to manage automated chemical processing equipment ensuring product quality and safety. Responsibilities include monitoring the DeltaV DCS, executing production processes, and maintaining compliance with safety regulations. Candidates should have at least a high school diploma and experience in automated manufacturing. This role offers a dynamic environment within a firm dedicated to sustainable solutions for feeding and fueling the world.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical degree or relevant manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience in automated manufacturing or chemical processing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor automated process equipment including reactors, pumps, and transfer systems.
• Utilize the DeltaV DCS to monitor process variables and adjust parameters.

Skills

Situational awareness in automated environments

Ability to interpret trends and process data

Strong communication skills

Ability to operate computer systems

Education

High school diploma or GED

Technical degree or relevant manufacturing experience

Tools

DeltaV DCS

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

What We Need:

The Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating an automated chemical processing facility that includes reactors, automated transfer systems, and integrated process controls. The role ensures product quality, operational reliability, and regulatory compliance while meeting customer satisfaction standards. The Operator works directly with the DeltaV Distributed Control System (DCS) to monitor, control, and optimize automated production processes. Responsible for ensuring Feed Safety/Food Safety by following all Safe Feed/Safe Food policies and protocols and taking immediate corrective action if safety issues arise.

This role will begin on either the day shift (6:00 AM–2:30 PM) or the night shift (2:00 PM–10:30 PM), with an overnight schedule introduced later in the year as operational needs grow. This position must pass a background check and drug screen.

What you will do

• Operate and monitor automated process equipment including reactors, pumps, heat exchangers, tanks, and transfer systems.
• Utilize the DeltaV DCS system to monitor process variables (temperature, pressure, flow, level, pH), adjust process parameters within defined operating limits, respond to alarms, and document operational data and deviations.
• Execute batch and continuous production processes following standard operating procedures.
• Monitor reactor performance including reaction temperatures, dwell times, feed rates, and agitation.
• Identify and elevate abnormal conditions to supervision and engineering as needed.
• Perform routine field checks to verify DCS readings align with physical equipment conditions.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and electronic records within DeltaV and plant systems.
• Support troubleshooting of automated systems in collaboration with Maintenance, Engineering, and Controls teams.
• Assist with start-ups, shutdowns, and plant turnarounds.
• Follow Management of Change (MOC) and LOTO procedures when working with automated systems.
• Monitor product quality, collect samples, and ensure compliance with internal specifications.
• Load and unload bulk trailers and rail cars, ensuring safe material transfer, proper documentation, and compliance with safety and environmental standards.
• Maintain high housekeeping standards.
• Demonstrate company values in daily work interactions.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Technical degree or relevant manufacturing experience preferred.
• Experience working in an automated manufacturing or chemical processing environment preferred.
• Experience operating or monitoring a DCS system (DeltaV preferred).
• Basic understanding of reactor operations, automated process controls, alarm management, and P&IDs.
• Ability to operate computer systems including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PIMS, and DeltaV.
• Ability to read and write English and perform basic mathematical calculations.

Preferred Competencies

• Strong situational awareness in automated environments.
• Ability to interpret trends and process data.
• Understanding of batch and continuous process control logic.
• Strong communication skills when escalating alarms or abnormal conditions.
• Safety-focused mindset in high-temperature and chemical environments.

Who We Are And What We Value

Feed Energy works at the intersection of feed, fuel, and agriculture, building a nearly four-decade legacy of stewardship in various industries. We support how America nourishes its people and powers its economy. Our team is made up of growth-minded individuals, who are dedicated to transforming global practices in feeding and fueling, driving innovation across the industries we serve. We create circular economies, developing sustainable, low‑carbon products and processes. Join us if you're looking for a dynamic environment to contribute to shaping a sustainable future for feeding and fueling the world.

We help feed the world by providing safe, energy‑based nutrition solutions.

Creativity - Stewardship - Impact - Integrity - Healthy Relationships