Production Technician Nights plus differential

Prairie AquaTech; Volga Township (SD); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Prairie AquaTech is hiring a Production Technician for the night shift in Volga, SD. You will support the production team by operating scale equipment, handling materials, collecting samples, and maintaining records to ensure safe, efficient operations.

The role requires strong attention to detail, mechanical troubleshooting skills, and adherence to SOPs. Shift runs 5 PM–5 AM, with responsibilities expanding to process support and entry-level tasks as needed.

Qualifications

• Ability to multitask and maintain focus and quality of each task.
• Strong technical and mechanical troubleshooting abilities preferred.
• Ability to follow company Standard Operating Procedures.
• Ability to work independently and with excellent time management.
• Ability to follow protocols with high precision and accuracy.
• Demonstrates proficiency in basic math skills.
• Demonstrates proficiency in the use of basic computer skills.
• Keen attention to detail with strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Quick and effective diagnosis and troubleshooting skills.
• Basic understanding of laboratory safety.
• Ability to read analyze and interpret documents.

Responsibilities

• Ensure raw materials and products are stored properly.
• Operate production scale equipment in a safe manner, monitor equipment performance, alert equipment specialist about maintenance needs.
• Complete/maintain production records.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Sample collection from production runs.
• Assignments may vary from material handling, production process support, and entry-level type work.
• This is a night shift position 5 PM to 5 AM.

Skills

Multitasking

Troubleshooting

SOP proficiency

Time management

Attention to detail

Math skills

Basic computer skills

Read & interpret documents

Diagnostic skills

Laboratory safety

Job description

Production Technician – Night Shift

At Houdek, we are pioneering sustainable solutions in agriculture by transforming soybeans into high-value ingredients that support animal health, environmental stewardship, and food system innovation. Based in Volga, South Dakota, we take pride in creating products that are rooted in science, powered by nature, and designed to make a meaningful difference.

We're growing fast and looking for people who want to be part of something bold and impactful. Our team works with purpose and pride, guided by the core values that shape our culture:

• Safety - We are committed to maintaining a safe, responsible, and healthy environment for all.
• Quality - From process to product, we hold ourselves to the highest standards.
• Respect - We foster a workplace where every voice matters and collaboration thrives.
• Transparency - We communicate clearly, honestly, and often with our teams and our partners.
• Innovation - We challenge convention, solve complex problems, and drive new possibilities every day.

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC dba Houdek is a manufacturing company based in Volga South Dakota that is improving animal health and nutrition by providing high-quality feed ingredients. Using patent-pending technologies licensed on a worldwide, exclusive basis from South Dakota State University and developed internally, the Company is upgrading soybean meal to high-quality ingredients used in aquaculture and other animal feeds.

JOB DUTIES

As a key member of the Production team, this role will report to the Production Manager and will be responsible for the following:

• Ensure raw materials and products are stored properly.
• Operate production scale equipment in a safe manner, monitor equipment performance, alert equipment specialist about maintenance needs
  • Milling equipment
  • Cooking system
  • Bioreactors
  • Centrifuge
  • Drying system
  • Blending and packaging systems
• Complete/maintain production records.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Sample collection from production runs
• Assignments may vary from material handling, production process support, and entry-level type work
• This is a night shift position 5 PM to 5 AM.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Ability to multitask, and maintain focus and quality of each task
• Strong technical and mechanical troubleshooting abilities preferred.
• Ability to follow company Standard Operating Procedures
• Ability to work independently and with excellent time management
• Ability to follow protocols with high precision and accuracy.
• Demonstrates proficiency in basic math skills.
• Demonstrates proficiency in the use of basic computer skills
• Keen attention to detail with strong analytical and critical thinking skills
• Quick and effective diagnosis and troubleshooting skills.
• Basic understanding of laboratory safety
• Ability to read analyze and interpret documents.

Prairie AquaTech Manufacturing, LLC dba Houdek is an Equal Opportunity, affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.