Biogas Plant Operator

Job Description

Job Description

Position Title: Biogas Plant Operator

Department: Operations

Reports To: Operations Supervisor

Location: Hanford

Classification: Non-Exempt

Hourly Pay: $25.00 to $30.00

Benefits: Standard CalBio benefits package is available: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401k with match.

COMPANY DESCRIPTION

California Bioenergy LLC (CalBio), founded in 2006, is one of the nation’s leading developers, owners, and operators of dairy digester projects. Working closely with our family dairy partners and agencies, including CARB, CDFA, CPUC, CEC, and the EPA, alongside affiliates Midwest Bioenergy, Northwest Bioenergy, and Southwest Bioenergy, we capture methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and beneficially use it to generate renewable natural gas (RNG) and electricity. Our projects reduce more than 1 million metric tons of CO₂e emissions per year, with a pathway to doubling these reductions over the next three years. A major use of CalBio RNG is as vehicle fuel; when truck fleets transition from diesel to natural gas, pollution emissions can drop by ~90%, delivering immediate air-quality benefits in communities such as California’s San Joaquin Valley and the L.A. Basin. These projects also help protect local air and water quality, create jobs, and provide new revenue and other meaningful benefits for our dairy partners.

POSITION PURPOSE

Reporting to the Operations Supervisor, the Biogas Plant Operator performs skilled operational and maintenance work to support the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of a dairy anaerobic digestion facility. This role is responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and cleaning the digester system, conditioning skid, and associated upgrader plant equipment. Facility assets include digesters, pumps, gas blowers, compressors, oxygen generators, condensers, chillers, and related auxiliary equipment.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Demonstrate full working knowledge of and strict adherence to company safety programs. Promote a strong safety culture by actively communicating safety expectations and supporting plant safety, health, and environmental initiatives.

• Maintain overall plant cleanliness and equipment reliability, including routine cleaning and upkeep of compressor skids, oxygen skids, strainers, wire screens, and chiller filters and coils, particularly during high‑heat conditions.
• Assist CalBio operators and external contractors during onsite maintenance activities, including media changeouts, major equipment overhauls, and vacuum removal of solids from digesters.
• Monitor anaerobic digester gas production with an emphasis on oxygen (O₂) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) concentrations.
• Perform daily equipment rounds, recording fluid temperatures, pressures, oil levels, gas concentrations, and process flows. Inspect equipment for proper operation and identify issues such as vibration, leaks, or abnormal conditions, escalating findings as needed.
• Participate in plant housekeeping, material handling, and safety activities to maintain a safe working environment.
• Support the planning and execution of preventive maintenance programs.
• Create and manage work orders in the computerized maintenance management system to track repairs and scheduled maintenance.
• Collaborate effectively with team members across multiple departments to support plant operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT

Performance is evaluated after the first 90 days and annually thereafter. Success in this role is measured by plant operating efficiency, system uptime and reliability, cost control, and compliance with company policies. Effective communication, teamwork, initiative, and the ability to utilize internal and external resources are key contributors to sustained operational performance.

QUALIFICATIONS

Three years prior experience in maintenance or operations within an industrial, utilities, or gas processing environment preferred.

• Working knowledge of industrial safety procedures and best practices.
• Ability to respond effectively to rapidly changing operational conditions.
• Ability to read, write, and understand English required; Spanish language skills are a plus.
• Basic proficiency with Windows‑based applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Valid California driver’s license and ability to operate a motor vehicle.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Work is performed in industrial and agricultural environments, primarily outdoors throughout California’s Central Valley. Temperatures may range from approximately 30&degree;F in winter to 115&degree;F in summer. The role involves regular exposure to heat, noise, flammable materials, rotating equipment, and other typical industrial hazards. Limited exposure to hazardous materials or fumes may occur, requiring use of approved personal protective equipment. The position requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and to climb ladders and stairs. California Bioenergy® maintains strict adherence to all applicable safety standards and work rules.