Plant Operator Jobs

LF Bioenergy (“LF”) is a privately held company that develops, constructs and operates renewable natural gas (“RNG”) production facilities across the USA. LF’s RNG facilities help agricultural, industrial, and food processing companies reduce greenhouse gas emissions through the production of RNG from organic waste streams. LF was founded in 2021 by a management team with deep experience in the oil, gas, renewable energy, animal agriculture, and food sectors. LF’s combination of prior experience in energy and agriculture is unique to the RNG industry and has provided LF with a large pipeline of growth opportunities.

LF is backed by equity provided by Cresta Fund Management, a value-add middle market private equity fund that invests in sustainable and conventional infrastructure that transports, stores, processes, refines, and sequesters basic materials.

General Summary

LF is looking to hire two Plant Operators to oversee, operate, maintain, and optimize its dairy manure anaerobic digestion RNG plant in Cherry Creek, NY. This role reports to LF’s Director of Operations.

The Plant Operators will have overall responsibility for operating performance, safety, and environmental compliance of the facility, including daily interfacing with SCADA control, making operating changes, executing preventative maintenance, performing lab work, and submitting environmental compliance reports while maintaining a safe work culture.

The plant is currently under construction and is expected to be commissioned at the beginning of 2023. During the construction period, the Plant Operators will assist in the oversight of construction activities, help set up the shop and warehouse, support the development of operating manuals and standard operating practices, and train in the operations, maintenance, and control of the specific equipment that is being installed.

Working Conditions

• Daily use of gas sampling equipment, mobile process analyzers, and laboratory equipment
• Periodic lifting or moving of heavy materials up to 60 lbs.
• Offset schedule of either Sunday – Thursday or Tuesday – Saturday, 5 days per week, 8 hours per day
• Standing on feet for extended periods of time
• Regular use of industrial vehicles and the operation of heavy machinery
• Position may require extended working hours contingent on "On call" status
• Work with hazardous materials may be required
• Daily use of computers and electronic control systems for process equipment
• Personal protective equipment must be worn in the performance of some duties (e.g. hard hats, safety glasses, gas monitors, high vis vests, etc.).
• Ability to walk over uneven terrain or climb up equipment ladders
• Regular use of a variety of power and manual tools

Primary Duties

• Manage budget while ensuring compliance with accounting practices
• Act as primary liaison for LF Bioenergy with Farmer partner, contractors, and other third-party entities
• Report to the Director of Operations weekly with production, availability, operational trends, etc.
• Responsible to ensure all personnel on site complies with safety, environmental, and social regulations
• With the assistance of Management, the Plant Operator will work to continuously improve plant operations via research on technology, process methods, and reactions to plant performance
• Coordinate with, manage, and oversee all vendor and contractor work and deliveries, assisting where possible
• Monitor, maintain, and operate dairy manure anaerobic digester, manure feedstock preparation, RNG upgrader and all supporting equipment and systems by performing operational adjustments, preventative maintenance, corrective maintenance, analyzing charts, and submitting reports
• Perform lab work, record data, and draw conclusions that informs process control
• Maintain the inventory and proper storage of all spare parts, and operating supplies
• Ensure the overall facility plant is kept safe, clean, and presentable at all times

Experience/Minimum Requirements

• Flexibility for 'on call' support or varied schedule needs
• Experience and knowledge of mechanical and electrical fundamentals
• Knowledge of PLC/SCADA controls
• No felony convictions or open arrest warrants
• High School Diploma or GED
• Ability to think critically with a sense of ownership and pride in one’s work
• Pass a physical exam and aptitude test
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license
• Ability to work cohesively in a highly effective team environment
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Provide reference checks related to previous employment
• Basic computer skills including Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel

Desired Skills/Abilities

• Technical training and/or certification
• Anaerobic Digester, energy facility, or similar process plant operations experience
• College education/degree

Compensation and Benefits

• Long-term disability, and life insurance available
• Up to 20% bonus potential
• 2 weeks of additional paid time off
• Retirement plan, with matching contributions up to 6%
• Fixed salary, commensurate with experience
• Medical, Dental, and Vision plan
• Overtime pay or time off in lieu of, for call-outs
• Statutory holidays in the State of New York
• Flexible spending account or Health Spending Account available

Equal employer opportunity (EEO) Statement

LF Bioenergy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be afforded equal opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin or ancestry, age, physical or mental handicap unrelated to ability, or an unfavorable discharge from military service.

Disclaimer

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.