Process Operator – Automation

Feed Energy•Pacific Junction, IA

About The Position

What We Need: The Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating an automated chemical processing facility that includes reactors, automated transfer systems, and integrated process controls. The role ensures product quality, operational reliability, and regulatory compliance while meeting customer satisfaction standards. The Operator works directly with the DeltaV Distributed Control System (DCS) to monitor, control, and optimize automated production processes. Responsible for ensuring Feed Safety/Food Safety by following all Safe Feed/Safe Food policies and protocols and taking immediate corrective action if safety issues arise. This role will begin on either the day shift (6:00 AM–2:30 PM) or the night shift (2:00 PM–10:30 PM), with an overnight schedule introduced later in the year as operational needs grow. This position must pass a background check and drug screen.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED required.
Technical degree or relevant manufacturing experience preferred.
Experience working in an automated manufacturing or chemical processing environment preferred.
Experience operating or monitoring a DCS system (DeltaV preferred).
Basic understanding of reactor operations, automated process controls, alarm management, and P&IDs.
Ability to operate computer systems including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PIMS, and DeltaV.
Ability to read and write English and perform basic mathematical calculations.

Nice To Haves

Strong situational awareness in automated environments.
Ability to interpret trends and process data.
Understanding of batch and continuous process control logic.
Strong communication skills when escalating alarms or abnormal conditions.
Safety-focused mindset in high-temperature and chemical environments.

Responsibilities

Operate and monitor automated process equipment including reactors, pumps, heat exchangers, tanks, and transfer systems.
Utilize the DeltaV DCS system to monitor process variables (temperature, pressure, flow, level, pH), adjust process parameters within defined operating limits, respond to alarms, and document operational data and deviations.
Execute batch and continuous production processes following standard operating procedures.
Monitor reactor performance including reaction temperatures, dwell times, feed rates, and agitation.
Identify and escalate abnormal conditions to supervision and engineering as needed.
Perform routine field checks to verify DCS readings align with physical equipment conditions.
Maintain accurate operational logs and electronic records within DeltaV and plant systems.
Support troubleshooting of automated systems in collaboration with Maintenance, Engineering, and Controls teams.
Assist with start-ups, shutdowns, and plant turnarounds.
Follow Management of Change (MOC) and LOTO procedures when working with automated systems.
Monitor product quality, collect samples, and ensure compliance with internal specifications.
Load and unload bulk trailers and rail cars, ensuring safe material transfer, proper documentation, and compliance with safety and environmental standards.
Maintain high housekeeping standards.
Demonstrate company values in daily work interactions.
Perform all other duties as assigned.