Guardian Energy Hankinson has an exciting opportunity for a Lab Manager to join the team!

In this role, you will report to the Plant Manager and be responsible for managing the quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program for the ethanol plant to ensure maximum fermentation efficiency and product quality, while supporting policies, goals and objectives of the company.

You’ll love working at Guardian Energy! We offer full benefits to include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short term and long-term disability, paid vacation, and paid holidays.

Essential Functions and Basic Duties:

• Manage plant QA/QC program.
  • Initiate and implement plant QA/QC program based on best practice in the ethanol industry.
  • Monitor use and inventories of laboratory chemicals and supplies. Initiate re-ordering when necessary.
  • Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment.
  • Prepare reports, analyze data and make recommendations for improving operation or solving process related problems.
  • Sample various points in the process and conducts QA/QC tests as required.
• Order Process Chemicals as needed.
  • Monitor usage of chemicals used in fermentation to ensure an adequate supply.
  • Negotiate prices and terms to maximize earnings.
• Supervise laboratory technician(s).
  • Ensure that technicians are adequately trained, equipped and motivated, so that QA/QC program can be accomplished in a safe, timely and cost-effective manner.
  • Assist with hiring of laboratory personnel.
  • Assist Plant Manager with conducting employee performance reviews based on job descriptions to determine competency, knowledge and contribution of the process operators.
  • Maintain and update operating and training manuals for the QA laboratory. Ensure that technicians are trained on the most updated version of the operating procedures.
• Monitor plant production and QA/QC parameters.
  • Review the operation of the plant constantly to monitor fermentation and quality parameters, to anticipate and take action to solve problems in a timely manner, and to identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Initiate and carry out projects that improve efficiency and/or reduce operating costs.
  • Maintain adequate records on a daily, weekly and monthly basis, of key QA/QC variables.
  • Perform statistical analysis of fermentation parameters and actively engage in the management and recommendation of the fermentation recipe under any operating circumstance.
  • Provide recommendations for infection control, pH control, and corn oil optimization.
• Maintain safety, health and environmental policies and procedures.
  • Ensure county, state, and federal regulations relating to the QA laboratory are met at all times.
  • Direct, maintain, and enforce the safety program for the QA laboratory; review safety records to uphold standards of maximum safety for all laboratory technicians.
  • Ensure effective participation by the process operators in the implementation of QA/QC policies and procedures.
  • Maintain environmental control program including testing and reporting as required by regulatory agencies.

Education/Certification:

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college/university in a related scientific or technical field required.

Knowledge & Skills Requirements:

• 3-5 years’ experience in a QA laboratory in a dry-mill ethanol plant or related industry required
• Experience with implementing effective QA/QC programs
• In-depth knowledge of mashing, fermentation and distillation as they relate to the ethanol production process
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite required
• Strong knowledge of JMP statistical software
• Knowledge of general office equipment required
• Valid Driver’s License required

Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong basic math skills
• Ability to interact professionally and effectively with internal and external customers
• Ability to maintain good relationships with internal and external customers, use tact and diplomacy, and possess a customer service focus
• Strong analytical abilities, problem solving skills, negotiation skills, dispute resolution and ability to overcome obstacles
• Manage multiple priorities with efficiency and accuracy
• Ability to anticipate needs and accomplish necessary tasks
• Strong motivational ability
• Act with honesty and integrity

PHYSICAL STRENGTH: This job may require lifting of up to 50 pounds occasionally.