Plant Operations Technician Operator - Req # 4042 - B

At Denali, we are more than a leading organic recycling company—we are innovators in sustainability, committed to replenishing the Earth by repurposing waste. We transform organic materials into sustainable solutions that help preserve water quality, improve soil health, reduce reliance on landfills, and support agricultural communities.

This is a safety-sensitive position requiring a clear mind, sound judgment, and constant attention to safe work practices. Employees are responsible for protecting their own safety and the safety of coworkers, customers, and visitors.

Position Summary

The Plant Operations Technician supports the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of plant equipment and processing systems. This hands-on position is responsible for monitoring daily production, operating industrial machinery, performing inspections, troubleshooting minor equipment issues, maintaining a clean facility, and assisting with preventive maintenance.

The ideal candidate is dependable, mechanically inclined, comfortable working outdoors and around organic materials, and able to work independently while supporting the overall plant team. This position requires attention to detail, strong communication, and a commitment to safety, environmental compliance, and operational excellence.

Essential Responsibilities

• Safely operate, monitor, and adjust plant equipment and processing systems. 
• Start up, operate, and shut down equipment according to established procedures. 
• Monitor gauges, control panels, flow rates, temperatures, pressure levels, and other operating conditions. 
• Perform routine inspections to identify leaks, unusual noises, excessive vibration, blockages, or other equipment concerns. 
• Document equipment readings, production activity, downtime, inspections, and maintenance needs. 
• Immediately report unsafe conditions, spills, equipment failures, or operational concerns to management. 
• Assist with receiving, processing, transferring, loading, and unloading organic materials. 
• Operate pumps, valves, hoses, conveyors, screens, grinders, compactors, and other processing equipment. 
• Connect and disconnect hoses and transfer lines safely. 
• Collect samples and assist with basic quality-control testing when required. 
• Use hand and power tools to perform minor repairs, adjustments, and equipment troubleshooting. 
• Assist maintenance personnel with preventive maintenance and equipment repairs. 
• Lubricate equipment, replace basic components, clear blockages, and perform other routine maintenance tasks as authorized. 
• Operate forklifts, skid steers, front-end loaders, or other mobile equipment after receiving proper training and certification. 
• Maintain work areas, walkways, tools, and equipment in a clean and organized condition. 
• Use pressure washers, hoses, shovels, brooms, and cleaning equipment to maintain plant cleanliness. 
• Support spill prevention, containment, cleanup, and environmental-compliance procedures. 
• Complete inspection forms, production records, maintenance requests, and other required documentation accurately. 
• Communicate shift activity, equipment conditions, and unfinished work during shift changes. 
• Follow all company safety policies, lockout/tagout procedures, confined-space requirements, and personal protective equipment standards. 
• Participate in safety meetings, training programs, emergency drills, and continuous-improvement initiatives. 
• Perform additional operational and maintenance duties as assigned. 

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred. 
• Previous experience in manufacturing, plant operations, industrial processing, agriculture, wastewater, construction, maintenance, or a related field preferred. 
• Basic mechanical knowledge and ability to identify common equipment problems. 
• Ability to safely use hand tools, power tools, hoses, and cleaning equipment. 
• Ability to read equipment instructions, safety procedures, warning labels, and operating checklists. 
• Basic math, measurement, and recordkeeping skills. 
• Ability to use a mobile phone, tablet, or computer to complete reports and communicate with management. 
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. 
• Strong attendance, punctuality, communication, and teamwork. 
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision. 
• Ability to work flexible schedules, overtime, weekends, and holidays when required. 
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record may be required. 
• Must pass all required pre-employment screenings. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating industrial processing equipment. 
• Experience with pumps, motors, valves, hydraulic systems, conveyors, or electrical controls. 
• Mechanical, welding, plumbing, or electrical experience. 
• Experience operating forklifts, skid steers, loaders, or other heavy equipment. 
• Familiarity with preventive maintenance programs. 
• Knowledge of lockout/tagout and other industrial safety procedures. 
• Experience working in organic recycling, wastewater treatment, agriculture, food processing, or environmental services. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong safety awareness and attention to detail. 
• Mechanical aptitude and practical troubleshooting ability. 
• Ability to recognize abnormal equipment conditions and respond appropriately. 
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a changing work environment. 
• Effective communication and problem-solving skills. 
• Ability to maintain accurate operational records. 
• Willingness to learn new equipment, technology, and operating procedures. 
• Ability to work effectively as part of an operations and maintenance team. 

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

• Regularly work indoors and outdoors in heat, cold, rain, wind, humidity, dust, and other weather conditions. 
• Work around organic materials, food waste, wastewater, mud, insects, and potentially unpleasant odors. 
• Frequently stand, walk, bend, stoop, crouch, kneel, climb, twist, push, pull, and reach overhead. 
• Regularly lift and carry up to 50 pounds; heavier team lifting may occasionally be required. 
• Climb stairs and ladders and walk across uneven, wet, or slippery surfaces. 
• Work near moving machinery, vehicles, pumps, pressurized systems, and loud equipment. 
• Wear required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, gloves, safety-toe boots, hearing protection, and high-visibility clothing. 
• Safely perform physically demanding work for extended periods. 
• Must be able to respond to alarms, equipment issues, and changing plant conditions promptly.

What we offer: 

• Mission-driven work in a rapidly growing sustainability company
• Opportunities for professional growth and learning
• Collaborative, values-driven team culture
• Competitive salary and benefits

Why You’ll Love Working at Denali- Benefits & Perks 

At Denali, the work we do begins and ends with you – our employees. That's why we strive to ELEVATE you to be your best, both at work and at home. Our benefits aren’t just about compensation; they’re part of a broader commitment to helping you thrive in all aspects of life. Here’s how we live out our values every day: 

• E – Employee: At Denali, we believe in offering competitive compensation packages that include not only great benefits but also a strong focus on safety, flexibility, and rewards and recognition. You are the backbone of our success, and we make sure you’re valued every step of the way.
• L – Learning: We’re committed to your growth and development. Our Ascend Employee Development Program and access to over 6,000 professional courses via our Learning Management System empower you to climb higher in your career – all at no cost to you.
• E – Environment: Our employees deserve a clean Earth. We’re dedicated to doing our part in keeping waste out of landfills, so you can be proud of the work we do together to make a positive environmental impact.
• V – Valued: At Denali, we take pride in creating a culture of care. With resources that support your well-being, volunteerism opportunities, and a commitment to safe working conditions and inclusivity, you’ll always feel like you belong here.
• A – Advancement: We believe in succession planning and providing opportunities for advancement. We want you to grow, and we’ll be right there with you, supporting your career every step of the way.
• T – Together: We’re stronger when we work together. At Denali, you’ll have opportunities to give and receive support not just within the workplace, but within our broader community. Our team is united, and we celebrate the value of working and succeeding as one.
• E – Employees: You are the heart of Denali. We believe our employees deserve the very best. This is why we offer an array of benefits that support your overall well-being, from health coverage to work-life balance, because when you succeed, we all succeed.

Our Benefits Package Includes: 

• Comprehensive Medical: Our self-insured medical plans are designed with your health in mind, offering competitive options including copay and HSA plans so you can choose what best suit your health needs.
• Dental & Vision: Keep your smile bright and your vision clear with full coverage for you and your family.
• Generous 401(k) Match: We’re here for your long-term future – we offer a generous 401(k) match of up to 4%, helping you build the foundation for tomorrow.
• Company-Paid Disability & Life Insurance: We’ve got you covered with company-paid Long-Term and Short-Term Disability, as well as AD&D and Life Insurance, giving you peace of mind knowing you’re protected.
• Voluntary Life for Employees & Family: Customize additional coverage for you and your loved ones with our voluntary life insurance options.
• Health Savings Plan:  Save on medical expenses with a Health Savings Plan designed for your needs.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) & Sick Time: We value your well-being. Take time for yourself, your family, and personal matters with generous PTO and Sick Time, including family leave.
• 9 Paid Holidays: Enjoy a well-rounded work-life balance with 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
• Paid Weekly: We believe in rewarding hard work consistently, which is why we offer weekly pay so you can stay on top of your financial goals.
• Professional Development:  Ascend in your career with free access to thousands of courses that allow you to grow and develop professionally.
• Employee Assistance Program: Life can be challenging at times, and we’re here to support you with our confidential Employee Assistance Program that offers counseling and resources for a variety of personal and professional needs.
• Wellness Program: At Denali, we believe that well-being goes beyond health coverage. Our Wellness Program offers resources to keep you mentally, physically, and emotionally balanced as you climb higher in both life and career.

We want you to feel valued, supported, and equipped for success – because when you thrive, we all thrive. So, come for benefits. Stay for the culture. We can’t wait to see you reach new heights with us at Denali. 

Apply to join our team today!

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy: It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities for all employees. Accordingly, the Company will not engage in any form of employment discrimination based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. The Company hereby affirms its desire to maintain a work environment for all employees that is free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination. 

Compensation details: 15-18 Hourly Wage

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