Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
What is a Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Manager?
A Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the creation, development, and implementation of biofuels and biodiesel products. These managers play a crucial role in the renewable energy sector, focusing on advancing sustainable fuel technologies to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and mitigate environmental impacts. They work closely with research and development teams to enhance existing technologies, ensuring products meet regulatory standards and industry needs. This role encompasses project management, market analysis, and strategic planning to drive innovation in biofuel production processes, from feedstock selection to refining techniques.
In addition to their technical expertise, these managers must possess strong communication skills to liaise with stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, suppliers, and end-users. They are often involved in educating the public and industry partners about the benefits of biofuels, advocating for policies that support renewable energy initiatives, and collaborating with government entities to secure funding or grants for research projects. Their ultimate goal is to contribute to a sustainable energy future by promoting the viable use of alternative fuels in transportation, heating, and other energy applications.
Tasks
- Design or conduct applied biodiesel or biofuels research projects on topics, such as transport, thermodynamics, mixing, filtration, distillation, fermentation, extraction, and separation.
- Analyze data from biofuels studies, such as fluid dynamics, water treatments, or solvent extraction and recovery processes.
- Prepare, or oversee the preparation of, experimental plans for biofuels research or development.
- Provide technical or scientific guidance to technical staff in the conduct of biofuels research or development.
- Propose new biofuels products, processes, technologies or applications based on findings from applied biofuels or biomass research projects.
Technology Skills
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Object or component oriented development software
- Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services SSRS
- Oracle Java
- Perl
- Python
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Ab Initio
- Microsoft Dynamics
- SAP software
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Analytical or scientific software
- Agilent ChemStation
- Fleet Asset Management and Optimization Solutions FAMOS PEPSE
- GE Energy GateCycle
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Development environment software
- Formula translation/translator FORTRAN
- National Instruments LabVIEW
Tools Used
- Remote reading thermometers
- Standard fermentation units
- Dissolved oxygen meters
- Bi distillation units
- Carbon filtration equipment
Knowledge
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Chemistry
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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Production and Processing
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Skills
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Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Abilities
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Information Ordering
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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Master's degree
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Associate's degree
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Detailed Work Activities
- Develop technical processes to improve the efficiency of biofuel production.
- Evaluate energy production data.
- Develop operating strategies, plans, or procedures for green or sustainable operations.
- Supervise workers performing environmentally sustainable activities.
- Develop specifications for new products or processes.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Enterprising
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.

Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$107390.0 - $233590.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.