ESI Plant Operator RNG

ENERGYneering Solutions Inc.® (ESI) provides exceptional technical expertise in engineering and operations for the biogas utilization and management industries. Since 2007, ESI has specialized in design, construction, and operations for biogas projects that collectively produce over one million MWh of renewable electricity and over 50 million gallons of renewable vehicle fuel every year. ESI is built upon the principle of providing clients with unmatched experience, flexibility, and follow-through.

About the role

Operate a Landfill Gas to Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) facility to maximize production. The Operator will work closely with the Plant Manager to conduct all plant routine and non-routine maintenance and repairs, take ownership in plant performance, and tackle challenges to help Operations Leadership achieve their goals. This is a hands-on role where a willingness to learn and commitment to safety culture will be crucial. The plant will be managed and operated by three personnel: Plant Manager and two Plant Operators.

The Operator reports to the Director of RNG Operations and should reside within 50 miles of the Suffolk, Virginia plant. Travel may be required to other plants or corporate office locations.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain the Plant and all associated equipment in a safe, detailed, organized, and presentable manner, including housekeeping, weeding, site maintenance, and minor fabrication.
• Manage, diagnose, and troubleshoot mechanical and electrical systems with remote and onsite assistance available for unresolved issues.
• Maximize SCADA utilization for predictive and proactive operations and maintenance.
• Perform maintenance and repairs on all major and ancillary equipment, including but not limited to: site vehicles, gas analyzers, air compressors, gas compressors, radiators, air handling equipment, pumps, filters, flares, gas treatment equipment, and other site-specific equipment.
• Use the Operational Data Management System (ODMS) to track and record events, operational data, and daily “walk around” readings.
• Understand, follow, and assist with compliance regulations for the Plant, including record keeping, data gathering, inspections, permit posting, maintaining compliance equipment, and meeting with inspectors.
• Respond to Plant callouts in a timely and professional manner (typically within 2 hours).
• Assist with training of coworkers or temporary Operators at the Plant.
• Travel to assist Operators at other Plants, backup or fill in for another Operator, or for training.
• Use ESI’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) where available and recommend or assist in further SOP development.
• Maximize Plant efficiencies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• 1–5 years of Plant operations and related experience.
• Trade school certification, high school diploma, or GED.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and background.
• Ability to read and understand basic Process Flow Diagrams and Electrical Schematics.
• Ability to use basic troubleshooting tools (e.g., multimeters, thermographic, measurement, and gas testing equipment).
• Basic Windows-based computer skills and general working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
• Established troubleshooting skills and experience in maintenance planning and preventative maintenance strategies.
• Ability to work independently, self-motivate, and communicate effectively with the customer and ESI team members.
• 12-hour shifts required, with schedule rotating in accordance with team requirements.
• Ability to safely climb on and off ladders and large equipment and lift/maneuver heavy objects (up to 100 pounds with assistance).
• Compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, including pre-employment, random, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, and follow-up drug and alcohol testing.
• Valid driver’s license for state of residence and eligibility for coverage under corporate driver's insurance policy based on DMV history.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in Renewable Energy, Gas Processing, Chemical, Power, Waste Management, or Environmental Air Quality Control Systems.
• Instrumentation and Controls background (PLC, VFD, Electrical).
• Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) experience.
• Associates or Baccalaureate Degree.
• Formal training in Root Cause Analysis methodology.
• Experience tuning control loops.
• Travel up to 15%.

Ideal Candidate

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to deal with complex problems and present recommendations clearly.
• Effective interaction at all levels within and outside ESI.
• Quick learner who adapts well to a fast-moving environment and combines creativity, problem-solving skills, and a can-do attitude.
• Highly motivated with strong organizational skills and ability to multitask in an environment with changing priorities.
• Experience in process optimization, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis (RCA) in an energy or manufacturing environment.
• Experience with process metrics and reporting key performance indicators (KPI).
• Experience in maintenance planning and preventative maintenance strategies.

Benefits

• Free HSA health plan or traditional PPO.
• 401(k) with generous company match (Safe Harbor).
• Dental, vision, and optional coverage (e.g., accident & critical illness insurance).
• HSA and FSA accounts to save on healthcare costs.
• Company-paid Life, Long Term Disability, and AD&D insurance.
• Confidential support for mental health, family matters, legal concerns, and more through Employee Assistance Program.
• Discounts on gyms, shopping, and entertainment.
• Unlimited Paid Time Off.
• Paid Holidays and Bereavement Leave.