Process Operator – Automation

Feed Energy • Pacific Junction, IA

1d • $22 - $25

About The Position

The Process Operator is responsible for safely and efficiently operating an automated chemical processing facility, including reactors, automated transfer systems, and integrated process controls. The role supports product quality, operational reliability, regulatory compliance, and customer satisfaction. Operators use the DeltaV Distributed Control System (DCS) to monitor, control, and optimize automated production processes, and follow Safe Feed/Safe Food policies and protocols, taking immediate corrective action if safety issues arise.

The position begins on the day shift, from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, on a 2-2-3 schedule. Applicants must pass a background check and drug screen and be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer-sponsored visa support.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to operate computer systems, including Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PIMS, and DeltaV.
• Ability to read and write English and perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Strong situational awareness in automated environments.
• Ability to interpret trends and process data.
• Strong communication skills when escalating alarms or abnormal conditions.
• Safety-focused mindset in high-temperature and chemical environments.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer-sponsored visa support.
• Must pass a background check and drug screen.

Nice To Haves

• Technical degree or relevant manufacturing experience.
• Experience working in an automated manufacturing or chemical processing environment.
• Experience operating or monitoring a DCS system; DeltaV preferred.
• Basic understanding of reactor operations, automated process controls, alarm management, and P&IDs.
• Understanding of batch and continuous process control logic.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor automated process equipment, including reactors, pumps, heat exchangers, tanks, and transfer systems.
• Use the DeltaV DCS to monitor process variables, adjust parameters within operating limits, respond to alarms, and document operating data and deviations.
• Execute batch and continuous production processes according to 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 that DCS readings match physical equipment conditions.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and electronic records within DeltaV and plant systems.
• Support troubleshooting of automated systems 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.
• Follow Safe Feed/Safe Food policies and protocols and take immediate corrective action if safety issues arise.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage.
• 401(k) match up to 6%.
• Profit-sharing for all employees.
• Continuing education.
• Quarterly performance-based bonuses.
• Wellness reimbursement up to $300 per year.
• PTO accrual starting immediately: 40 hours initially, increasing to 120 hours at 2 years and 160 hours at 5 years.
• Eight paid holidays.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED