Biofuels Lab Manager

Dairy Distillery Alliance, a biofuels manufacturer in Constantine, MI is a new organization that is using milk permeate from the MMPA (Michigan Milk Producers Association), a byproduct of the dairy processing industry and converting it to low carbon intensity ethanol that can be used in gasoline or converted into Sustainable Aviation Fuel.

The permeate is fermented and then purified in distillation. The waste stream from the distillation process is combined with MMPA’s wastewater and treated in a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment system that produces biogas to fuel the boiler. The treated effluent from the plant is discharged according to NPDES permit specifications.

Job Overview:

The Biofuels Lab Manager position is “hands on” and will support the plant manager in plant operations. A primary focus will be to setup the laboratory to perform QA testing for the fermentation, distillation and wastewater unit operations and manage staff on shift to perform testing. The lab manager will have the technical expertise to help troubleshoot potential problems both in the lab and in WW operations.

As the lab manager, good organizational skills, significant mathematics and reading skills, knowledge and understanding of laboratory testing and functions, interpretation and understanding of permit and regulatory compliance; plant, chemical and laboratory safety practices are required. This position will require a high degree of flexibility, communication and coordination between the ww and the distillery laboratory. Progressively responsible experience in wastewater operations with knowledge in distillation/fermentation processes. Responsibilities include being “on call” or working a non-traditional schedule as required. This position is full time and typically 1st shift.

What We’re Looking For:

• Follow and sustain DDA plant safety and guidelines.
• Team Player and contributor to the plant and plant processes.
• Manage and maintain wastewater plant process controls as to meet effluent quality as required by the state discharge permits (CBOD5, TSS, Ammonia/N, Phosphorus, pH, TRC, Temperature) and any additional constituents that may be required).
• Maintain fermentation and distillation plant laboratory analysis including microbiological testing, gas chromatography and a variety of wet chemistry testing.
• Manage staff, analyze and interpret data for plant processes.
• Provide internal and regulatory reporting and maintain plant records.
• Communicate laboratory and ww quality specification performance to plant manager.
• Assist as needed in plant operations and maintenance.
• Update training and necessary skills lab team.
• Awareness of and compliance with good management practices (GMP’s).
• The position will be required to achieve and maintain the proper and required Class wastewater license (Class A,B,C,D) within a reasonable length of time.
• Attend training both on and off site as required and train new operators as necessary. This does include the training of new employees for any initial qualification and refresher training.
• Perform other duties, as assigned. Must be able to lift 50 lbs.

Education & Experience:

• 5 years’ experience in a relevant lab supervisory role.
• The lab manager must have or acquire all the knowledge, skills and proficiencies to become a Certified Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator (Class A,B,C or D). A training program of approximately six months is anticipated and is necessary to acquire Certification.
• Certification is a job requirement. If lost during employment, management reserves the right to allow the incumbent a reasonable time to re-certify. However, if certification cannot be acquired, management may remove the employee into a more suitable position.
• Prior hands-on experience with process control software, word-processing and spreadsheet programs is required.
• This position is primarily day shift however coverage of staff during illness and vacation will require the candidate to work any shift, weekends or holidays, and “on-call”. Reliable and consistent attendance required.
• Must be able to pass a drug screen and background check.
• Post secondary education is favored in an applicable scientific background including but not limited to chemical engineering, microbiology, food science or chemistry. Candidates with relevant experience will also be considered.
• Knowledge in good manufacturing practice regulations (GMP’s) as well as wastewater, environmental, OSHA requirements
• Safe use of chemical products and process chemicals. Safety minded with knowledge and experience using and recommending proper personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Ability to lead in a team environment.
• Prior experience in manufacturing, wastewater (aerobic-anaerobic digestion, DAF, sludge separation), distilling and/or fermentation operations a plus.
• Possession of a valid State of Michigan Driver’s License

Environment:

• Standing and walking are required for approximately 50% of work time; climbing stairs and lifting are also daily activities.
• Ability to constantly stand/walk and to frequently bend/flex/twist/squat/carry for an 8–12-hour shift. Repetitive movements and tasks. Ability to lift, move, slide, and situate 50 pounds routinely.
• Subject to elevated levels of noise, extremes in temperature for prolonged periods or abrupt changes in temperatures, fumes or disagreeable odors, exposure to inclement weather conditions.
• Perform other duties, as assigned by the plant manager.

Ready to join our team, Apply today!! We look forward to hearing from you!

We are a drug-free facility, and maintaining a safe, healthy, and productive work environment is a top priority. As part of our commitment to your well-being, all applicants will undergo a drug screening as part of the hiring process.

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive list of responsibilities that are required of the role. Responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice.

ABOUT DAIRY DISTILLERY ALLIANCE

Dairy Distillery Alliance is a joint venture between Michigan Milk Producers Association and Dairy Distillery in Canada. For more details about the project go to https://dairydistillery.com/MMPA.html