Process Operator - Lakota Ethanol Plant

Valero; Lakota (IA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay and annual bonus program

100% match on 401(K) up to 7%

Comprehensive healthcare and wellness programs

Job summary

A leading energy company is looking for a Process Operator to oversee daily operations at their Lakota facility. The role requires monitoring and maintaining production quality while ensuring a safe work environment. Candidates should have a high school diploma or GED and be willing to work on-site. The position offers competitive pay, benefits, and a supportive work culture designed to foster innovation and efficiency.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Able and willing to work on-site, in-person at the Valero Lakota Ethanol Plant required.
• Associate Degree in Process Technology or equivalent preferred.
• Experience operating a dry-mill ethanol plant preferred.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control plant operations.
• Review plant operations to monitor production and quality, anticipate and solve problems.
• Document process variables and sample data.
• Communicate with all departments within the facility.
• Participate in safety, health, and environmental programs.

Skills

On-site readiness

Safety awareness

Education

High School diploma or GED

Associate Degree in Process Technology

Job description

Overview

Valero is the best-in-class producer of essential fuels and products that are foundational to modern life. We invite you to join our ~10,000 employees to drive exceptional results for our company, the energy industry and our community.

As a Process Operator, you will oversee the daily operation of an assigned area of the production process within the plant. You will work on a 12-hour rotating shift schedule while maintaining a safe work environment. You will monitor and maintain production quality and equipment, while supporting the policies, goals, and objectives of the Company.

At Valero, we are committed to advancing the future of energy through innovation, ingenuity and unmatched execution. You can help achieve this goal if you meet the responsibilities and qualifications described below.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control plant operations.
• Review plant operations to monitor production and quality, anticipate and solve problems in a timely manner, and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Participate in projects that improve efficiency and/or reduce operating costs.
• Document and monitor process variables, sample data and routine tasks as required to maintain plant operations within operating parameters.
• Participate in Quality Assurance/Quality Control programs, 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, Safe Work Permit, FSMA).
• Participate in programs and procedures required to ensure plant cleanliness.
• Monitor use and inventory of process chemicals and supplies.
• Perform other duties as assigned to maintain a safe, reliable, and consistent operation.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Able and willing to work on-site, in-person at the Valero Lakota Ethanol Plant required.

Preferred Requirements

• Associate Degree in Process Technology or equivalent preferred.
• Experience in the operation of a dry-mill ethanol plant preferred.

Location and Schedule

Primary Location: US-IA-Lakota

Job Posting: Jan 21, 2026, 12:54:38 PM • Unposting Date: Ongoing

Benefits

• Competitive pay and annual bonus program
• 100% match on 401(K) up to 7%, plus additional discretionary 3% annual company contribution
• Comprehensive healthcare and wellness programs

Benefits described above are highlights only, subject to eligibility and work location.

Additional Information

Valero’s pre-employment process includes successful completion of a background check and pre-employment drug screen. Valero is an EEO Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to legally protected status.