Production Operator

selecting a; Iowa City (IA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

CJ Bio America in Fort Dodge, IA is seeking a Refinery Operator for the Zeta Evap/C1 & C2 Cry-X line. You will operate the assigned production process using HMI software, collect samples, and perform troubleshooting to keep the line running safely.

The role requires monitoring equipment, recording process data, and ensuring compliance with safety and food safety rules. Production experience preferred; 12-hour shifts with rotating days/nights and overtime may apply.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Production experience preferred.
• Experience with safety and food safety practices is a plus.
• Familiarity with HMI software and data recording recommended.

Responsibilities

• Operate the production process using HMI to maintain a safe, efficient process.
• Convert coproduct material via evaporation and crystallization to value-added Zeta products.
• Responsible for Zeta dryer and packaging operations.
• Monitor production equipment, control systems, and input/record data as needed.
• Monitor tank levels, temperatures, pH, vacuum pressure, flow rates, density, currents, RPM.
• Collect samples and perform tests to determine pH, concentration and density.
• Troubleshoot process and equipment; complete lockout/tagout as needed.
• Assist others and communicate issues to refinery leadership.

Skills

Excel

Safety knowledge

Food safety

HMI software

Education

High school diploma / GED

Job description

Job Title: Refinery Operator –SB Evap/Zeta C1&C2 Cry-X

Property of: CJ Bio America

1946 Harvest Ave.

Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501

Job #: PROD_R_Operator Zeta Evap/ C1 & C2 Cry-X

REV: 7/27/2026

Department: Refinery

Reports to: Refinery Supervisor

Career Path: T

Function: Production

Full-Time

Part-Time

Exempt

Non-Exempt

Job Summary

This position operates the assigned production process using HMI computer software, collects and processes samples, inspects equipment and performs troubleshooting or repairs as necessary.

Essential Job Functions

• Monitor and operate the production process using HMI software to maintain a safe and efficient process
• This production process will Convert coproduct material into value added products through evaporation and crystallization in order to produce Zeta products.
• Responsible for Zeta dryer and packaging
• Monitors production equipment, operating control systems, and utilizes computer systems to input and record data as necessary
• Monitor tank levels, temperatures, pH, vacuum pressure, flow rates, density, currents, RPM
• Collect samples and perform tests to determine pH, concentration and density
• Troubleshoot issues with process and equipment
• Complete safe work permits, lock out tag out procedures as needed.
• Helps others as needed in all other production areas
• Communicate any issues with refinery leadership
• Ability to adhere to safety and food safety rules, policies and guidelines
• Accurately and legibly record sample and process data
• Perform other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Computer skills, e.g. Excel
• Safety and food safety knowledge
• Ability to operator HIM computer software
• Ability to read and understand manuals and maintain proper records
• Problem-solving skills
• Effective communication skills
• Ability to learn production process and equipment
• Ability to abide by safety and regulatory regulations
• Ability to follow directions and work well in a team

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• This position works 12-hour shifts (36 / 48 hours per week alternating, rotating nights & days every 4 weeks), which includes days, nights, weekends, holidays and overtime
• This position works in a manufacturing environment, which includes exposures to moving mechanical parts, high noise levels, vibrations, varying atmospheric conditions and temperatures, hazardous chemicals, high pressure steam, dust
• This position doesn’t supervise the work of others
• Travel is not expected for this position
• This position regularly requires the ability to remain in a stationary position up to 30% of shift, standing, walking extended distances, ascending/descending stairs extended distances, close/distance vision. Occasionally requires confined space entry, lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds, ascending/descending ladders, reaching with hands and arms, climbing or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
• Must be able to wear full-face respirator and protective equipment as needed. This includes minimal facial hair in order to ensure proper fit of respirator in accordance with OSHA regulations. Must complete annual medical monitoring program, including pulmonary function testing.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma / GED
• Production experience preferred;

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and qualifications required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside their normal responsibilities form time to time, as needed. This job description is subject to change at any time.

Equal opportunity employer.