Lead (Sr) Operator / Operator

Mascoma NY LLC is a cellulosic biomass-to-ethanol company. Mascoma is leading the development of unique biotechnology and deployment of cellulosic production. Initial deployment activities are focused on strategic partnerships for conversion of wood-based cellulosic feedstocks into ethanol, at relevant commercial scale. 



Lead (Sr) Operator / Operator

 

Reports to:  Plant Manager, Rome, NY



Location:  Rome, NY

 



Description/Purpose:

 

The Lead Operator will safely operate and maintain all equipment for pilot and demonstration scale manufacturing to support process development and R&D efforts.  Performance expectations include contribution to maintaining a safe work environment, attaining specified quality standards, ensuring environmental compliance and meeting production goals.



 

Key Responsibilities:

 

Monitoring and controlling the operations of all functions related to the ethanol manufacture process.Decision making for the operation of the process and keeping process within designated limits.Operating pumps, valves, controls and other devices and processing equipment to ensure all plant systems are operating properly.Operating industrial equipment including, but not limited to, forklifts, skid steers, and pallet trucks.Operating utility systems including, but not limited to, plant and instrument air, medium and low pressure steam.Mixing and preparing various chemical solutions.Handling raw material feedstocks and process wastes.Performing cleaning and sanitization procedures on equipment.Recording critical process data and maintain appropriate logs.Performing housekeeping in the plant area to ensure a safe and clean workplace.Reporting any unusual situations to management as they occur.Sampling for lab analysis of intermediate and finish product streams.Maintaining equipment in proper and safe running order.

 

Minimum Qualifications: High school education or equivalent.6 months to one year minimum experience in a manufacturing operator function (Operator), 5 years minimum experience (Lead/Sr Operator)Mechanical aptitude.Familiarly with safety practices and techniques relating to a manufacturing environment (e.g. LOTO, Confined Space Entry, Hot Work).Familiarity or general knowledge of computers / process control / DCS.An understanding and awareness of chemicals and their nature, hazards, safety and health issues, etc. (MSDS’s use of PPE etc.).Ability to work 8 hour rotating shifts.Ability to work in a seven day per week environment when required.Ability to work overtime when required.Ability to work outdoors, climb stairways and use ladders to perform tasks.Ability to operate manual process equipment.Ability to lift (50 lbs.) and pass physical requirements.Must be a team player and willing to jump in and assist where needed. Good communications skills.Experience operating a fork lift.Ability to adhere to attendance and punctuality policies.Ability to work autonomously and juggle multiple priorities. Must be a team player and willing to jump in and assist where needed. Good communications skills.

Desired: Technical degree or completed chemistry or engineering courses.Prior experience in a small manufacturing environmentExperience in a chemical plant environment, preferably with experience in the manufacture of ethanol.Current PIT licenseKnowledge of P&IDs and PFDs.


Mascoma is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, gender, age, color, religion, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other protected factor.