Ethanol Engineer
In an ethanol plant, an engineer is responsible for working closely with the management team to maximize efficiency of plant operations and implement process improvement projects. Ethanol engineers can help an ethanol plant with cost-saving projects, such as energy reclaim, reduction, yield optimization and chemical usage reduction.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Troubleshoot problems as they arise during ethanol production
- Ensure compliance of environmental and team member health and safety
- Be available in case of a plant breakdown or emergency
- Work closely with managers to maximize efficiency of plant operations
- Look for ways to optimize plant run time mechanically and with personnel
- Identify process needs to maintain production levels
- Analyze manufacturing data such as efficiency reports and develop reports based on plant operations
- Network with other engineers to share best practices and solve problems
- Analyze statistical data and product specifications to determine standards and establish quality and reliability objectives of finished products
- Recommend maintenance schedules for equipment
- Assist in the development and execution of projects
- Develop budgets for improvements and additions to the ethanol plant
- Monitor infrastructure and machinery for maintenance needs
- Research new technology to improve processes at the plant
- Look for ways to increase product quality
- Have a strong working knowledge and understanding of basic principles and theories applicable to ethanol production
- Ensure plant meets environmental and safety protocols
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- biology
- chemistry
- plant science
- agricultural mechanics
- writing
- computer skills
Education/Training Required:
A bachelor’s degree in agricultural, environmental, chemical or electrical engineering or a related field is required to be an ethanol engineer. Additional training in microbiology is a plus.
