Process Operator – Ethanol Plant | 12-Hour Shifts, Overtime

Valero Energy; Fort Dodge (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Annual bonus

Healthcare program

401(k) match

Job summary

Valero Energy is hiring a Process Operator for the Fort Dodge Ethanol Plant. You will oversee the daily operation of a plant area, working a 12‑hour rotating shift, and maintaining safe operations while monitoring production quality and equipment.

Responsibilities include optimizing processes, documenting data, and supporting safety, QA/QC, and interdepartmental communication to ensure efficient daily activities. On-site work with a focus on safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• On-site, in-person at Valero Fort Dodge Ethanol Plant required.
• Preferred: Associate Degree in Process Technology or equivalent.
• Experience in the operation of a dry-mill ethanol plant preferred.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control plant operations.
• Review plant operation to monitor production and quality, anticipate problems and identify improvements.
• Participate in projects to improve efficiency and/or reduce operating costs.
• Document and monitor process variables, sample data and routine tasks for position, to ensure plant operations are within operating parameters.
• Participate in QA/QC program, interpret results, and take 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, FSMA).
• Participate in programs to ensure plant cleanliness.

Skills

Ethanol plant experience

Education

High school diploma or GED

Associate Degree in Process Technology

Job description

Valero Energy is hiring a Process Operator for the Fort Dodge Ethanol Plant. You will oversee the daily operation of a plant area, working a 12‑hour rotating shift, and maintaining safe operations while monitoring production quality and equipment.

Responsibilities include optimizing processes, documenting data, and supporting safety, QA/QC, and interdepartmental communication to ensure efficient daily activities. On-site work with a focus on safety and continuous improvement.