Biofuels Processing Technicians
What is a Biofuels Processing Technician?
A Biofuels Processing Technician is a specialized professional who plays a crucial role in the production of biofuels, which are renewable energy sources derived from organic materials such as plant matter, animal waste, and other biodegradable resources. These technicians work in various settings, including biofuel production facilities, research laboratories, and agricultural operations, where they are responsible for overseeing the processes that convert raw materials into usable biofuels like biodiesel, ethanol, and biogas. Their work involves operating and maintaining complex machinery, conducting experiments and analyses, monitoring production processes, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during production. Biofuels Processing Technicians also collaborate with engineers and scientists to improve production efficiency and develop new techniques for biofuel generation, contributing to a more sustainable energy future. As the demand for renewable energy sources continues to grow, the role of Biofuels Processing Technicians is becoming increasingly important in helping to transition from fossil fuels to more sustainable energy alternatives.
Tasks
- Monitor batch, continuous flow, or hybrid biofuels production processes.
- Operate valves, pumps, engines, or generators to control and adjust biofuels production.
- Monitor and record biofuels processing data.
- Collect biofuels samples and perform routine laboratory tests or analyses to assess biofuels quality.
- Operate equipment, such as a centrifuge, to extract biofuels products and secondary by-products or reusable fractions.
Technology Skills
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Object or component oriented development software
- Python
- R
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Analytical or scientific software
- Data visualization software
- SAS
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Industrial control software
- Digital control systems DCS
- Human machine interface HMI software
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Facilities management software
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
Tools Used
- Screwdrivers
- Titration equipment
- Distillation pipings or columns or fittings
- Air samplers or collectors
- Control valves
Knowledge
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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.
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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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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Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
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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.
Skills
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
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Quality Control Analysis
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Abilities
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Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
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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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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Speech Recognition
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
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Associate's degree
Work Activities
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Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
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Documenting/Recording Information
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Detailed Work Activities
- Monitor biofuel production operations.
- Operate biomass or biofuel production equipment.
- Record operational or production data.
- Evaluate quality of materials or products.
- Collect samples of materials or products for testing.
Work Interests
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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.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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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.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$36120.0 - $85950.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.