Job at a glance
Job Title: Machine Operator Job Description This role operates and monitors ethanol production equipment in a large, climate-controlled facility, ensuring safe, efficient, and continuous operations. You will troubleshoot mechanical issues, handle materials using forklifts, and use computer-based systems to manage the production process from start to finish. The position suits someone highly motivated, eager to learn, and comfortable working with both hands-on machinery and digital control systems.
Responsibilities Operate and monitor ethanol production equipment throughout the full process, from start-up to shutdown. Troubleshoot mechanical issues on conveyors, forklifts, pumps, valves, and related production equipment. Use a sit-down, gas-powered forklift to safely unload and move materials within the facility. Check and record temperatures of bearings and other critical components to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Apply Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures to secure equipment during maintenance or troubleshooting activities. Use a Distributed Control System (DCS) to monitor operations, identify process needs, and determine the next tasks in the production sequence. Enter and update production and maintenance data using Microsoft Word and Excel, ensuring accurate and timely documentation. Follow established safety procedures and OSHA guidelines while working with chemicals and production equipment.
Participate in operating boilers and supporting related systems as needed. Collaborate with team members on shift to coordinate tasks and maintain smooth production flow. Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills by explaining and executing step-by-step troubleshooting approaches for equipment and process issues. Continuously learn new processes, systems, and equipment, and apply this knowledge to improve performance and efficiency.
Essential Skills 2+ years of experience as a Chemical Operator or in a similar production or process role. 5+ years of safety experience working in environments governed by OSHA standards. 3–5 years of experience applying Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures in an industrial setting. 3+ years of mechanical troubleshooting experience in production, chemical, mixing, or related environments. Experience with machine operation in a manufacturing or process plant.
Experience working with ethanol or other chemical production processes, or a strong willingness to learn this environment. Proficiency using a Distributed Control System (DCS) or similar computer-based control systems, or the ability to learn them quickly. Basic proficiency with Microsoft applications, including the ability to navigate and enter data in Word and Excel. Ability to operate or learn to operate sit-down gas-powered forklifts, with at least 1 year of forklift experience.
1–2 years of experience operating boilers or related thermal systems. Strong motivation, eagerness to learn, and the ability to grasp complex processes and apply new information. Ability to clearly describe past troubleshooting experiences and walk through a process from start to finish. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience working in chemical, mixing, or production environments involving pumps, valves, and conveyors.
Comfort working with computer-based monitoring and control systems in a production setting. Strong attention to detail when following safety procedures, including LOTO and other plant safety protocols. Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate clearly with coworkers and supervisors. Willingness to obtain and complete additional certifications, with opportunities to earn higher pay per certification.
Flexibility to work rotating day and night shifts on a recurring schedule. Job Type & Location This is a Permanent position based out of Johnson Creek, WI. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $45760.00 - $62400.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors,