Shift Operations Lead - 24/7 Renewable Plant

Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores Inc.; Hastings (NE); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Heartwell Renewables is hiring a Shift Foreman to oversee a 24/7 renewable diesel production facility in Hastings, NE. You will lead a team of operators on a 12-hour rotating shift, ensuring safe, compliant plant operations and continuous production.

The role requires strong leadership, a solid process mindset, and the ability to coordinate with supervision on process optimization, safety, and quality goals. Expect rugged industrial conditions and a commitment to safety.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Valid driver’s license.
• High School Diploma or GED.
• 5+ years of related work experience.
• 2+ years of lead operator experience.
• Strong process mindset with ability to read P&IDs, PFDs, and SOPs; comfortable basic computer programs such as Excel/Word tools.
• Strong work ethic including but not limited to strong communication skills, hardworking, dedicated and punctual.
• Willingness to perform incipient fire response and other emergency response activities as trained.
• Willingness to work a rotating shift schedule and overtime as required by business needs.
• Be fit to perform the essential functions of the job. Be comfortable working in an industrial environment that may include loud areas near rotating, operating, or heavy equipment, extreme temperatures, dust, work at heights, entry into confined spaces, and other potential chemical or atmospheric hazards requiring the use of appropriate PPE.
• Ability to walk and stand for extended periods of time, lift minimum 40 lbs., climb ladders, stairs and work from elevated platforms.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English, including job specific technical language, sufficiently to perform the duties of this position.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and control room systems (e.g., DCS/SCADA - DeltaV preferred)
• Other minimum qualifications may apply

Responsibilities

• Communicate guidance on shift from supervision for operations, maintenance of plant equipment, process optimization, and quality management goals.
• Demonstrate strong leadership and team development for operators.
• Supervise and lead a team of operators during 12-hour shifts on a 24/7 operating schedule.
• Ensure all SOPs, safety protocols, and environmental regulations are followed.
• Provide direction and support in routine and emergency situations.
• Carry out and coordinate nights, weekends and holiday operations activities to ensure safe, efficient, and continuous plant performance.
• Conduct safety checks, audit, and participate in safety meetings.
• Ensure compliance with environmental permits and reporting requirements.
• Lead shift handovers and communicate clearly with incoming crews and management regarding plant status and ongoing tasks.
• Resolve conflict and deescalate issues that arise during shift. Communicate any needed information to supervisor/HR.
• Coordinate Operator call outs to fill short notice vacancies in the schedule.
• Report on shift status, operational changes, and issues to management and oncoming shift.
• Identify skills gaps and coordinate with management on developmental opportunities.
• Mentor and train junior operators and new hires.
• Participate in PSSR’s and other operational processes to ensure safe operation.
• Report equipment failures, participate in incident investigations and assist in root cause analysis.
• Maintain accurate records of shift activities, production data, incidents, and maintenance needs.
• Participate in emergency response drills and ensure crew readiness for unplanned events.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, including process efficiency, safety performance, and crew development.
• Monitor process conditions, troubleshoot issues, and assist in optimizing plant operations.
• Identify and review hazards, risks and opportunities on an ongoing and proactive basis and ensure that appropriate follow up actions are implemented.
• Enforce company policies, including a strict alcohol and drug policy.
• Travel up to 5% of the time.
• Other duties as assigned

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Safety awareness

Problem-solving

English proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field or equivalent experience

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Excel/Word

Control room systems (DeltaV)

Job description

Heartwell Renewables is hiring a Shift Foreman to oversee a 24/7 renewable diesel production facility in Hastings, NE. You will lead a team of operators on a 12-hour rotating shift, ensuring safe, compliant plant operations and continuous production.

The role requires strong leadership, a solid process mindset, and the ability to coordinate with supervision on process optimization, safety, and quality goals. Expect rugged industrial conditions and a commitment to safety.