Plant Engineer

Are you a meticulous and dependable team player with a passion for continuous plant improvement? We invite you to join our KAAPA team as a Plant Engineer at our Aurora location.

• Work closely with the Engineering Manager and KAAPA resources to drive continuous improvement initiatives that maximize plant production, quality, efficiency, and profitability.
• Monitor and analyze day‑to‑day operations of the dry‑mill ethanol facility to identify performance gaps, improvement opportunities, and cost‑reduction strategies.
• Assist in leading, managing, and executing capital and operational projects from concept through completion, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget.
• Support plant leadership in achieving safety, environmental, production, and efficiency objectives while aligning with company policies, goals, and strategic initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA guidelines, environmental regulations, and all applicable city, county, state, and federal requirements related to process operations.
• Evaluate process performance, chemical usage, and operating practices; recommend and implement improvements, new technologies, and process optimizations.
• Provide technical expertise and leadership to operations and maintenance teams to resolve process issues and improve plant reliability.
• Assist in developing and managing the annual operating and capital budgets, including forecasting, cost tracking, and justification of improvement projects.
• Maintain clear communication with plant leadership regarding project status, operational challenges, safety concerns, and improvement progress.
• Promote a culture of accountability, attention to detail, and continuous improvement across all plant functions.

• Monday
  - Friday 8am-4:30pm with additional hours required during harvest and as required throughout the year

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical, mechanical, or process engineering preferred
• Valid driver’s license
• 5+ years' experience in the operations of a dry‑mill ethanol plant preferred
• Strong knowledge of the ethanol production process and technology preferred
• Able to communicate information and state problems or challenges to be resolved
• Able to adapt with minimal or advance notice to changes
• Able to speak, listen, read, and communicate clearly
• Proficient with Microsoft Office
• Able and willing to learn new software applications
• Learn and effectively use Llumin
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401k with employer contributions
• Basic life and short-term disability insurance provided
• Sick and vacation time along with 8 paid holidays
• Profit Sharing

Join us and become a valued member of our team, contributing to the smooth operation and success of our company.