Careers in Focus: Alternative Energy, Third Edition

By Ferguson

Ferguson's Careers in Focus books are a valuable career exploration tool for libraries and career centers. Written in an easy-to-understand yet informative style, this series surveys a wide array of commonly held jobs and is arranged into volumes organized by specific industries and interests. Each of these informative books is loaded with up-to-date career information presented in a featured industry article and a selection of detailed professions articles. The information here has been researched, vetted, and analyzed by Ferguson's editors, drawing from government and industry sources, professional groups, news reports, career and job-search resources, and a variety of other sources. For readers making career choices, these books offer a wealth of helpful information and resources.

Each profession article includes:

• Quick Facts: a snapshot of important job facts



• Overview: briefly introduces duties and responsibilities



• History: describes the origins and history of the job



• The Job: describes primary and secondary goals and duties



• Earnings: discusses salary ranges and typical fringe benefits



• Work Environment: looks at typical work conditions and surroundings associated with the job



• Exploring: offers suggestions on how to gain experience and knowledge about—or even test drive—a career before making a commitment



• Education and Training Requirements: discusses required high school and post-secondary education and training



• Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements: explains recommended and required certifications or prerequisites for the job



• Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits: summarizes the personal traits and skills and professional experience needed to get started and succeed



• Employer Prospects: gives an overview of typical places of employment and the best ways to land a job



• Advancement Prospects: presents an expected career path and how to travel it



• Outlook: summarizes the job's potential growth or decline in terms of the general economy and industry projections



• Unions and Associations: lists essential and helpful professional groups



• Tips for Entry: additional tips for preparing for a career and getting a foot in the door



• For More Information: lists organizations that provide career information, networking, and professional development



• Sidebars: short features showcasing stats, trivia, and insight about a profession or industry

Careers in Focus: Alternative Energy, Third Edition covers 37 jobs, including:

• Bioenergy/Biofuels Workers



• Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers



• Biofuels Processing Technicians



• Biofuels Production Managers



• Biomass Plant Technicians



• Biomass Power Plant Managers



• Energy Brokers



• Energy Conservation Technicians



• Environmental Engineers



• Environmental Lobbyists



• Environmental Planners



• Environmental Scientists



• Environmental Technicians



• Fuel Cell Engineers



• Fuel Cell Technicians



• Fuel Cell Technology Workers



• Futur

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ferguson
• Release date: Jun 1, 2021
• ISBN: 9781646933396

Book preview

Entries

Bioenergy/Biofuels Workers

Quick Facts

Overview

Energy that is derived from biomass (organic material such as wood, plants, or animal wastes) is known as bioenergy. Bioenergy can be used to generate electricity and produce heat. It can also be used to produce biofuels, which are used in place of fossil fuels to power vehicles and for small heating applications. A wide range of jobs are available in the bioenergy and biofuels industry for people with various backgrounds and interests, including scientists, biologists, researchers and research technicians, plant managers, product managers, and sales engineers.

History

Renewable energy sources have been around for thousands of years. Wood, corn, soy, aquatic plants, and animal waste are a small sampling of the types of organic, replenishable materials that can be converted into fuels to power cars and trucks, and provide heat and electricity to homes and buildings. In fact, wood is one of the earliest biofuels—cavemen were the first to figure out how to use it to improve their quality of life. With fire, food was cooked and hot, homes were warm, and nights were brighter. Vegetable oil is another early biofuel. In 1990 Rudolf Diesel, the inventor of the diesel-fueled engine (as you may have guessed), demonstrated his engine at the World Exhibition in Paris, France, by using peanut oil to power it. Ford's Model T, which was produced from 1903–1926, was designed to run on hemp-derived biofuel. Back then, the abundance (not to mention the lower price and better efficiency) of fossil fuels pushed interest in biofuels to the wayside. Petroleum, among others, became the star.

As history has proven, one side effect of fuel shortages and energy crises is usually renewed interest in alternative energy sources. When faced with acute fuel shortages during World War II, Germany turned to potato-derived ethanol and wood-derived methanol as sources of fuel. The fuel crisis in the 1970s highlighted America's dependence on foreign-imported oil and the need to explore other sources of energy. America's consumption of foreign oil was at a high by the early 1970s, while production of oil on U.S. lands was at an all-time low. The fuel crisis started in 1973, when Middle Eastern countries, to illustrate their anger over outsiders' involvement in Arab-Israeli conflicts, placed an embargo (meaning a legal stoppage) on petroleum exports to Western nations, including the United States and the Netherlands. As a result, awareness of natural resources and energy conservation grew. More people started buying smaller, fuel-efficient cars, as opposed to the gas-guzzlers that had once been popular. Carpooling and mass transit were heavily promoted as ways to save energy and money. And interest in and funding for bioenergy and biofuels research grew.

The Job

Bioenergy can be derived from wood, construction and consumer waste, landfill gas, and liquid biofuels such as ethanol for use in generating electricity, producing heat, and fueling vehicles. The United States gets approximately 4 percent of its energy from bioenergy, including wood and crops such as corn and soybeans.

There are a variety of jobs in the bioenergy and biofuels industry, from scientists and researchers to engineers, construction workers, product and plant managers, and a whole host of others. People are needed to create and improve the products and the technology, oversee and manage the operations and staff, as well as to build the facilities in which the work is done.

Scientists and biologists may work in the areas of research and development, to help advance the ways in which bioenergy and biofuels are produced. For instance, a bioenergy plant scientist may be involved in bioenergy crop research, conducting studies on plant growth and development, and plant adaptation to environmental stresses. This scientist's work may involve molecular studies of plants, in an effort to understand gene compositions and functions. A seed production scientist helps organize and manage seed production programs for companies. As described in one Internet advertisement for employment with a biofuels company in the agribusiness sector, the job can entail researching and developing seed production techniques for bioenergy grass crops, and include selecting production sites, field design, seed crop establishment, flowering and pollination control, seed harvest and handling, and developing quality-control programs.

Biological technicians work closely with biologists to research and study living organisms. They work as laboratory assistants, helping to set up, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment. They also monitor experiments, make observations, calculate and record results, and develop research conclusions. They may work in biotechnology, conducting basic research on gene splicing and recombinant DNA and applying knowledge and techniques to product development for biofuels and bioenergy. Agricultural technicians have similar roles in providing laboratory and research assistance, with their subject matter being crop production and processes. They conduct tests and experiments to improve the yield and quality of crops, and to help increase plants' resistance to disease, insects, or other hazards.

A biofuels product manager will work closely with business development managers, business analysts, and other product managers to help strategize business plans, product development, and product launches of biofuels. One posting for an ethanol product manager included job responsibilities such as interpreting customer and market needs and translating this information to research and development groups. Problem-solving abilities, strong communication skills, and the knack for analyzing data and communicating and presenting it clearly to different groups of people are required to succeed as a product manager. Other requirements may include guiding and participating in conferences, helping to create product strategies (including functionality, pricing, etc.), product application development and prototype testing, and handling communications with external groups.

Biofuels plant managers oversee all operations of biofuels and biorefinery plants, and are responsible for everything from machinery functionality to staff performance. A recent posting for a biofuels plant manager in Minnesota included these job responsibilities:

Ensure production is efficient and maximized

Provide direction to ensure proper levels of maintenance as well as compliance with safety and environmental regulations

Direct continuous improvements and quality-assurance efforts

Lead cross-functional efforts to facilitate best practices and process initiatives

Provide solid leadership; serve as a role model for the plant's management team

Revise policies and procedures as necessary to achieve the highest levels of morale and working relationships

Prepare and manage plant-wide budgets.

People applying for this job also needed to have strong knowledge of chemical distillation, fermentation, and grain refining, processing, and extracting processes. They also needed prior experience in a petroleum, ethanol, biodiesel, biofuels, or chemical plant.

Engineers and construction managers and workers are also needed to create bioenergy and biofuels plants. Civil, electrical, industrial, and mechanical engineers develop designs for plants and process equipment using computer-aided design and computer-aided industrial design software. They work closely with architects, developers, business owners, construction crews, and others to make sure the work is done according to specifications. Construction managers coordinate the construction process, selecting and managing construction workers, and overseeing projects from the development phase to final construction. They may work as project manager, site manager, construction superintendent, project engineer, program manager, or general contractor.

A biofuels worker checks samples.

Source: Biological and Environmental Research Information System. Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Earnings

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, in May 2018, environmental scientists had median annual incomes of $71,130, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $42,520 and the top 10 percent earning $124,620 or more.

Biological scientists' salaries in May 2018 ranged from less than $45,030 to $126,390 or more, with a median annual salary of $79,590. Annual salaries for soil and plant scientists ranged from less than $38,570 to $115,400 or more, with a median annual salary of $63,950. Biological technicians had median incomes of $44,500, with salaries ranging from less than $29,330 to $71,440 or more. Agricultural technicians earned less than $26,980 to $64,020 or more per year, with a median annual salary of $40,860.

Industrial production managers earned median annual incomes of $103,380 in May 2018, with the bottom 10 percent bringing home $63,470 or less, and the top 10 percent earning $172,150 or more. Construction managers had annual salaries ranging from less than $55,240 to $161,510 or more, with median incomes of $93,370. Construction laborers' salaries ranged from less than $23,460 for the bottom 10 percent, to $65,590 or higher for the top 10 percent, with a median annual salary of $35,800.

Engineers' salaries varied, depending on their specialty. For example, in May 2018, environmental engineers earned annual incomes ranging from less than $53,180 to $137,090 or more, with a median annual salary of $87,620. On the other hand, agricultural engineers brought home less than $46,500 to $116,850 or more each year with a median annual salary of $77,110; and chemical engineers earned less than $64,890 to $169,770 or more annually with a median annual salary of $104,910.

Bioenergy/biofuels workers who are employed full time receive benefits such as vacation days, sick leave, health and life insurance, and a savings and pension program. Self-employed workers must provide their own benefits.

Work Environment

Scientists, biologists, and research associates and technicians work indoors in laboratories and offices. They may spend some time outdoors conducting research on plants and crops and collecting samples. Engineers may also work in laboratories and offices, as well as outdoors, depending on the project. Construction managers and workers work on-site at construction sites and in offices. Product and plant managers work indoors in manufacturing facilities and plants, as well as in offices.

Work hours will vary, but most bioenergy and biofuels positions will require at least 40-hour workweeks, with additional hours occasionally needed on evenings and weekends to meet project deadlines. Some positions will require travel for research, meetings, and conferences.

Exploring

Keep up with developments and trends in bioenergy and biofuels by reading magazines and books. Pick an area of bioenergy and biofuels that interests you, then do an Internet search to find the companies that specialize in this area. If any are located near you, see if they have part-time or summer job openings or volunteer opportunities. You can also find resources, event listings, and job postings on the Biofuels Digest Web site (http://biofuelsdigest.com).

Education and Training Requirements

High School

Course work in math, biology, chemistry, earth science, physics, history, English, and computer software programs will provide a well-rounded basis for this career. Foreign language classes are also useful. If your school offers environmental studies classes, take these as well. Some bioenergy and biofuels jobs may require knowledge of machines, so it may be advantageous to take electronics, mechanics, and shop classes.

Postsecondary Training

Undergraduate requirements will vary depending on the job. Many companies and universities prefer to hire scientists, biologists, and researchers that have a bachelor's degree in science, and a Ph.D. in their specialty, which could be plant biology, biochemistry, physiology or genetics, to name only a few. Previous related research and project work may also be required for more advanced positions. Engineers may have a bachelor's or advanced degree in electrical, electronics, industrial, mechanical, or even civil engineering. Plant managers and product managers may have a bachelor's degree in business administration, management, industrial technology, or industrial engineering. Some jobs require a master's or Ph.D. in business, marketing, chemistry, biotechnology, or related fields, with experience in the biofuels industry. Some companies may hire plant or product managers with a liberal arts degree who match all other requirements of the job and can be trained while on the job.

The U.S. Department of Energy offers links to educational programs in clean energy at https://www.energy.gov/eere/fuelcells/energy-education-links. The National Science Foundation offers a list of college programs that offer biofuels-related degrees and certificates at https://www.bio-link.org/programs/degrees-by-program.

Many bioenergy/biofuels students participate in an internship with a biofuels employer while in college. The internship allows them to explore potential career paths, gain experience, and make valuable contacts, which may come in handy when it is time to look for a job. The U.S. Department of Energy offers links to information on internships, fellowships, and scholarships at https://www.energy.gov/eere/bioenergy/bioenergy-internship-fellowship-opportunities.

Other Education or Training

The Renewable Fuels Association offers continuing education opportunities at its National Ethanol Conference. Other professional associations provide continuing education classes, webinars, and conferences in their particular specialty. For example, the American Society of Agronomy offers an online class in agronomy.

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

Certification or licensing may be required for certain positions in the field. Contact your state's department of licensing for more information on requirements in your state. Engineering is one profession that is strongly regulated. Most states require engineers to be licensed. There are two levels of licensing for engineers. Professional engineers (PEs) have graduated from an accredited engineering curriculum, have four years of engineering experience, and have passed a written exam. Engineering graduates need not wait until they have four years' experience, however, to start the licensure process. Those who pass the Fundamentals of Engineering examination after graduating are called engineers in training (EIT) or engineer interns (EI). The EIT certification usually is valid for 10 years. After acquiring suitable work experience, EITs can take the second examination, the Principles and Practice of Engineering exam, to gain full PE licensure. The exams are offered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (https://www.ncees.org).

Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits

Any experience—such as an internship or volunteer opportunity—you can obtain working at a biofuel-related employer will be useful preparation for the field.

Most bioenergy and biofuels jobs require strong oral and written communication skills to write reports, present materials, and manage staff. Scientists, researchers, and engineers usually work on teams, so the ability to share information and deal with different people is essential to succeeding in this type of work. Some positions may require knowledge of computer modeling, digital mapping, global positioning systems (GPS), and geographic information systems (GIS). Plant managers and product managers need strong organization skills in their work, as well as leadership and management abilities. Engineers will need to be well-versed in computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided industrial design (CAID) software systems. Knowledge of foreign languages can also be extremely beneficial in this field.

Employment Prospects

Employers

Opportunities for bioenergy and biofuels workers are available throughout the United States, although certain areas of the country may offer better opportunities than others. For example, the majority of ethanol production takes place in the Midwest. Top states for ethanol production include Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, Minnesota, and Indiana. Scientists, biologists, and researchers work for universities, laboratories, and research institutes, as well as government agencies and private firms. According to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), there are about 80,480 environmental scientists employed in the United States. Most environmental scientists work for state and local governments, testing laboratories, or consulting firms. About 24 percent work for management, scientific, and technical consulting services; 12 percent work for engineering services, and 6 percent for the federal government.

The DOL reports that about 42,640 biological scientists are employed in the United States. (This number does not include the many who hold biology faculty positions in colleges and universities, as these are categorized as postsecondary teaching jobs.) Federal, state, and local governments employ a large percentage of all biological scientists. The U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Interior, and Defense and the National Institutes of Health are the main employers of federal biological scientists. The remainder work in scientific research and testing laboratories, the pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing industry, or colleges and universities.

Agricultural and food scientists hold about 30,490 positions. They work for federal, state, and local agencies; agricultural service companies; commercial research and development laboratories, seed companies; wholesale distributors; and food products companies.

Agricultural and food science technicians hold about 21,290 jobs, and biological technicians hold about 77,450 jobs. Government agencies and scientific and technical service firms are their main employers.

There are approximately 53,070 environmental engineers, 1,630 agricultural engineers, and 32,060 chemical engineers employed in the United States. Many work in manufacturing industries and in the professional, scientific, and technical services sector. And of the 181,310 industrial production managers employed in the United States, most work in manufacturing industries.

Starting Out

Internships, part-time jobs, and volunteer gigs are great ways to explore the bioenergy and biofuels field and see if this type of work suits you. Visit the Web sites of professional associations in the areas that interest you and see if there are opportunities to volunteer and get involved. You can also find useful information about the renewable and clean energy industry by visiting the U.S. Department of Energy's Clean Energy Jobs section at https://www.energy.gov/eere/education/education-homepage.

Advancement Prospects

Scientists and biologists can advance to more senior-management positions, such as department directors or regional supervisors. Plant and product managers with years of experience and proven track records can advance to regional manager, vice president, or a similar position of higher authority. Some workers may decide to freelance as consultants or start their own companies. Others can advance by teaching in colleges and universities, speaking at conferences held by industry associations, and writing papers and books on their area of specialty. Obtaining certification may not be required for some positions, but it can be attractive to prospective employers as it demonstrates knowledge in that subject. Getting a master's degree or Ph.D. can also help boost a candidate's chances for employment in certain areas of the bioenergy and biofuels field.

Outlook

With the government's interest in funding bioenergy and biofuels research and increasing the supply of biofuels, environmental science and research jobs in this field are expected to be on the rise in the years to come.

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) predicts that employment for environmental scientists will grow faster than the average for all careers through 2028, with private sector consulting firms offering the most job opportunities. Stricter environmental laws and regulations will increase the need for scientists and researchers working in the bioenergy and biofuels arena.

Biological scientists and technicians will both experience employment growth through 2028, although biological technicians will enjoy somewhat better prospects than biological scientists, with especially good opportunities in biological and medical research. According to the DOL, demand for biological technicians will grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2028, while employment of biological scientists will experience average growth in the coming years. The need for alternative fuel will also increase the demand for biological scientists and technicians who specialize in biotechnology and biofuels production (e.g., using ethanol for transportation fuel) and harnessing better and more efficient sources of renewable biomass.

Employment for agricultural engineers is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations through 2028. They will still be needed to research and develop biofuels and biotechnology, and to create more efficient crops dedicated to biofuels production and renewable energy sources. Employment of industrial production managers is expected to experience little or no change through 2028. Construction managers, on the other hand, are expected to have faster-than-average employment growth through 2028. Those with bachelor's degrees, or higher, in construction science, construction management, or civil engineering, along with practical, related work experience will have the advantage in the job market.

Unions and Associations

Some bioenergy and biofuels workers may be members of a union, such as the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (http://www.ifpte.org). The Renewable Fuels Association is the major organization for workers in the field. It provides useful statistics, publications, and other resources. Other noteworthy organizations include the American Chemical Society, American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, American Institute of Biological Sciences, American Institute of Constructors, American Society for Engineering Education, American Society of Agronomy, APICS–The Association for Operations Management, Biotechnology Industry Organization, and the Biotechnology Institute.

Tips for Entry

Read publications such as Biofuels Digest (http://biofuelsdigest.com) to learn more about trends in the industry and potential employers.

Visit the following Web sites for job listings:

https://www.energy.gov/eere/education/clean-energy-jobs-and-planning

https://www.midwestrenew.org/jobs/

https://www.nspe.org/resources/career-center

https://www.sciencemag.org/careers

https://environmentalcareer.com

Visit https://www.bio-link.org/resources/where for a list of biotechnology employers by state.

Attend the Renewable Fuels Association’s annual National Ethanol Conference and other industry events to network and interview for jobs.

For More Information

For general information about chemistry careers and approved education programs, contact

American Chemical Society (ACS)

1155 16th Street, NW

Washington, D.C. 20036-4839

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

https://www.acs.org

Learn more about energy issues and find out about upcoming events and conferences by visiting

American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)

529 14th Street, NW, Suite 600

Washington, D.C. 20045-1000

Tel: [phone]

https://www.aceee.org

For publications, networking opportunities, policy information, and other information related to biological sciences, visit

American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS)

950 Herndon Parkway, Suite 450

Herndon, VA 20170

Tel: [phone]

https://www.aibs.org

For more information about construction careers, visit

American Institute of Constructors and the Constructor Certification Commission (AIC)

19 Mantua Road

Mount Royal, NJ 08061

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

https://www.professionalconstructor.org

For more information about engineering schools and career resources, visit the society's Web site.

American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)

1818 N Street, NW, Suite 600

Washington, D.C. 20036-2479

Tel: [phone]

http://www.asee.org

To learn more about agricultural science careers, visit

American Society of Agronomy (ASA)

5585 Guilford Road

Madison, WI 53711-5801

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

https://www.agronomy.org

To learn more about industrial production management careers, contact

The Association for Supply Chain Management

8430 West Bryn Mawr Avenue, Suite 1000

Chicago, IL 60631-3417

Tel: [phone]

http://www.apics.org

For career information, including articles and books, contact

Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO)

1201 Maryland Avenue, SW, Suite 900

Washington, D.C. 20024-6129

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

https://www.bio.org

For information on biotechnology careers and industry facts, visit the institute's Web site.

Biotechnology Institute

1201 Maryland Avenue, SW, Suite 900

Washington, D.C. 20024-6129

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

http://www.biotechinstitute.org

International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE)

501 3rd Street, NW, Suite 701

Washington, D.C. 20001-2771

E-mail: [e-mail]

http://www.ifpte.org

For industry information, contact

International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA)

c/o IP CALs, B75 Mann Library

Ithaca, NY 14853

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

http://www.isaaa.org

For industry news and updates and general information on bioenergy, contact

Renewable Fuels Association (RFA)

425 Third Street, SW, Suite 1150

Washington, D.C. 20024-3231

Tel: [phone]

https://www.ethanolrfa.org

Learn more about bioenergy and bioenergy programs by visiting the following Web site

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

1000 Independence Ave. SW

Washington, D.C. 20585-0001

Tel: [phone]

https://www.energy.gov/science-innovation/energy-sources/renewable-energy/bioenergy

Find out more about engineering careers by visiting

Junior Engineering Technical Society

1420 King Street, Suite 405

Alexandria, VA 22314-2750

Tel: [phone]

http://www.jets.org

Learn More About It: Bioenergy and Biofuels

Brown, Robert C., and Tristan R. Brown. Why Are We Producing Biofuels? Ames, Iowa: Brownia LLC, 2012.

Kole, Chittaranjan, Chandrashekhar P. Joshi, and David R. Shonnard. Handbook of Bioenergy Crop Plants. Boca Raton, Fla.: CRC Press, 2012.

Li, Yebo, and Samir Khanal. Bioenergy: Principles and Applications. Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley-Blackwell, 2016.

Mousdale, David M. Introduction to Biofuels. Boca Raton, Fla.: CRC Press, 2010.

Soetaert, Wim, and Erik Vandamme. (eds.) Biofuels. Hoboken, N.J.: John Wiley & Sons, 2009.

Wall, Judy, Caroline S. Harwood, and Arnold Demain. (eds.) Bioenergy. Washington, D.C.: ASM Press, 2008.

Biofuels Processing Technicians

Quick Facts

Overview

Biofuels processing technicians are responsible for the process of converting organic material, such as wood, plants, vegetable oils, grains, or animal wastes, into biofuels to generate electricity and produce heat. Biofuels replace fossil fuels to generate power for vehicles and for small heating applications. Biofuels processing technicians operate biofuels production equipment, monitor processes, collect samples and perform laboratory tests on biofuels quality, and record data. Many work for energy companies and processing plants that convert feedstock into biofuels. There are approximately 12,270 plant and systems operators, including biofuels processing technicians, employed in the United States.

History

The sources for renewable energy have existed since early civilization. Wood was among the first biofuels mankind used for heating homes, cooking food, and providing light at night. Vegetable oil is another early renewable material that has been converted into biofuel in the past. In the late 1800s, Rudolf Diesel invented a peanut oil–powered engine, which he shared with the public at the World Exhibition in Paris, France. In the early 1900s, Ford's Model T was powered by biofuel derived from hemp. Fossil fuels, such as petroleum, were in abundance back then, and their efficiency and low cost put biofuels on the back burner.

Interest in alternative energy sources always grows, however, when fuel and energy sources are depleted. For example, during World War II, the Germans tackled a fuel shortage by creating ethanol from potatoes and methanol from wood. In the United States, the fuel shortage in the 1970s revealed how dependent the country had become on the Middle East for oil and how U.S. petroleum production had dropped to a dangerous low. The energy crisis resulted from Middle Eastern countries placing an embargo on exporting petroleum to Western countries, including the United States and the Netherlands, as an expression of their anger at external involvement in Arab-Israeli conflicts. The embargo translated into long lines at the gas stations, high gas prices, and people trading in their large, gas-guzzling cars for smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Awareness has since been raised about the importance of energy conservation and renewable energy sources. People now use mass transit and carpool to cut down on costs and save energy. Today, wood, corn, soy, aquatic plants, and animal waste, among other types of organic materials, are converted into biofuels for powering vehicles and giving heat and electricity to homes and buildings. Funding for biofuels and bioenergy research and development continues to grow, creating more job opportunities for biofuels professionals.

The Job

More than 4 percent of U.S. energy is derived from bioenergy such as corn, soybeans, and wood. Biofuels processing technicians work in energy plants and manufacturing facilities that convert these materials into biofuels for generating electricity, producing heat, and fueling vehicles. They monitor biofuels production processes and operating and overseeing production equipment.

Biofuels processing technicians may oversee biofuels batches, continuous flow, or the process of producing hybrid biofuels. Their work is similar to that of production plant workers, with the difference being that this job oversees the process of converting organic materials into biofuels and biofuel products.

The job entails a variety of tasks, from operating production equipment to collecting biofuel samples and doing laboratory tests on the samples to analyze and assure the quality of the biofuels. Biofuels processing technicians have strong knowledge of production processes, raw materials, quality control, and budget considerations in the manufacture and distribution of goods. They use various software programs in their work, such as facilities management software, inventory management software, industrial control software, as well as spreadsheet software and Word processing software.

They operate and control production equipment and systems, using gauges, dials, pumps, valves, etc., to control and adjust machinery. They use equipment such as centrifuges to take samples of biofuels products and by-products and monitor and record processing data. They work closely with other technicians and supervisors, communicating by telephone, e-mail, and in person. Exposure to hazardous materials is part of the job, so biofuels processing technicians wear protective clothing and equipment every day that they work.

A biofuel process technician adjusts equipment used to convert corn into fuel.

Source: Shutterstock. Prasit Rodphan

Earnings

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, in May 2018, plant and system operators, which includes biofuels processing technicians, had median annual incomes of $57,100, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $34,580 and the top 10 percent earning $81,750 or more. Salaries vary depending on experience and type of employer. For example, experienced technicians who worked for local government organizations averaged $64,300 annually, while those working for electric power generation, transmission, and distribution companies averaged $75,030.

Biofuels processing technicians who are full-time employees receive benefits such as vacation days, sick leave, health and life insurance, and a savings and pension program.

Work Environment

Biofuels processing technicians work indoors in manufacturing facilities and plants. They also spend time in offices and laboratories, using computers to input and study data, conduct research, write reports, and e-mail with coworkers and supervisors. Many plants operate around the clock, and technicians often work in shifts. They may be scheduled to work early mornings, evenings, and/or weekends.

The job presents risks in working around large industrial machinery and equipment coupled with exposure to hazardous materials and by-products. Technicians are trained in their company's safety standards and procedures for production operations and processes, and always wear protective clothing and equipment such as gloves and goggles during their work shift.

Exploring

Learn more about recent developments and news in the biofuels field by reading publications such as Biofuels Digest (http://www.biofuelsdigest.com). Find companies that produce biofuel products by using the Internet to conduct a search. If you find companies near you, see if they have any part-time job openings or opportunities to volunteer. Ask your school's career services office for help in locating a biofuels processing worker to speak with about their career. An informational interview with someone working in the field is a great way to get firsthand details about the job and what's required for entry.

Education and Training Requirements

High School

Biofuels processing technicians rely on their knowledge of math and science. Be sure to take as many classes as possible in math, biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental science, and physics. Strong communication skills are also needed for this type of work; English and foreign language classes are useful. The job entails knowledge of machinery and equipment, so take shop classes.

Postsecondary Training

A high school diploma may be sufficient to work as a biofuels processing technician but education beyond high school often leads to more job opportunities and better pay. Energy and manufacturing companies may prefer to hire technicians who hold an associate's or bachelor's degree, with a focus in biomanufacturing or biofuels technology. Courses in biology, chemistry, math, electronics, English, and computer software programs are typically included in the curriculum. Some companies may hire technicians who have degrees in other areas but who have prior work experience in the bioenergy or related field.

Find educational programs, job listings, and internship opportunities in clean energy through the U.S. Department of Energy's Web site, https://www.energy.gov/eere/education/education-homepage. The National Science Foundation offers a list of college programs that offer biofuels-related degrees and certificates at https://www.bio-link.org/home2/home/degrees.

Other Education or Training

The Renewable Fuels Association offers continuing education opportunities at its National Ethanol Conference. Other professional associations provide continuing education classes, webinars, and conferences in their particular specialty. For example, the American Society of Agronomy offers an online class in agronomy.

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

Certification is voluntary and can improve job prospects. Biofuels technician certification programs are offered through community colleges and technical schools. Certificate programs typically include classes on biodiesel, ethanol, biofuels processing, fermentation, feedstocks, preparation, process control, lab quality control, and safety.

Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits

Biofuels processing technicians with an associate's degree, an apprenticeship or one or more years of related work experience, and certification have good chances of securing work. Strong knowledge of various software programs for operating and monitoring production processes and machinery is essential for this job. These programs include computerized maintenance management system software (CMMS) for facilities management; digital control systems (DCS) and human machine interface (HMI) for industrial control; inventory control software; spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Excel; and Word processing software such as Microsoft Word.

In addition to math, science, and technical skills, technicians must have strong communication skills, for recording data and writing reports and sharing information with others in clear, understandable ways. They are knowledgeable about production and processing, machines and tools, and safety procedures and processes. They understand chemical compositions, chemical interactions, production techniques, and disposal methods. Detail-oriented people who are dependable, cooperative, have integrity, and work well independently and with others do well in this field.

Employment Prospects

Employers

Biofuels processing technicians work in energy and manufacturing companies throughout the United States, but more jobs are available in certain areas of the country where more biofuels processing plants are located. Many ethanol production facilities, for example, are based in Indiana, Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Nebraska. There are nearly 12,270 plant and systems operators, including biofuels processing technicians, employed in the United States, according to the Department of Labor.

Starting Out

Many biofuels processing technicians get their start through apprenticeships, gaining knowledge and skills while on the job. Part-time and summer jobs in bioenergy and biofuels companies provide opportunities to learn more about the field. Many technicians find work by visiting the career sections of the Web sites of energy and manufacturing plants. They may also find job listings through the Clean Energy Jobs section of the U.S. Department of Energy's Web site, https://www.energy.gov/eere/education/education-homepage.

Advancement Prospects

Biofuels processing technicians may advance to become senior technicians or supervisors, handling more responsibilities and overseeing and managing other technicians and related workers. They may further their education by getting certification, and pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in bioenergy or biofuels. With advanced education and years on the job, they may move up to roles as plant or operations managers. Some may start their own consulting companies and hire their own staff. Advancement may also include getting involved in industry associations, such as holding a position on the board of directors and speaking at conferences. Some may share their knowledge with others by teaching in colleges and technical schools and writing about the field.

Outlook

Funding for biofuels research and development varies depending on the U.S. government. In May 2019, the U.S. Department of Energy announced more than $79 million in bioenergy research and development funding. This figure included biofuels, biopower, and bioproducts. 

In general, plant and systems operators will decline in employment opportunities through 2028.

Despite this outlook, there will be ongoing interest in studying, developing, and producing biofuels, such as ethanol for transportation fuel, and using more efficient sources of biomass. Scientists will continue to research and develop biofuels and biotechnology, with the aim to create crops for biofuels production and renewable energy sources. Biofuels processing technicians with an associate's degree, certification, and related work experience will have good chances of securing work.

Unions and Associations

Biofuels processing technicians may be members of a union, such as the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers. The Renewable Fuels Association is the major organization for workers in the field. It provides useful statistics, publications, and other resources. Other noteworthy organizations include the American Chemical Society, American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, American Institute of Biological Sciences, American Institute of Constructors, American Society for Engineering Education, American Society of Agronomy, the Association for Supply Chain Management, Biotechnology Industry Organization, and the Biotechnology Institute.

Tips for Entry

Read publications such as Biofuels Digest (http://biofuelsdigest.com) to learn more about trends in the industry and potential employers.

Search for job listings at the following Web sites:

https://energy.gov/eere/education/education-homepage

http://www.energyvortex.com/careercenter

https://www.midwestrenew.org/jobs

https://www.nspe.org/resources/career-center

http://www.sciencemag.org/careers

https://environmentalcareer.com

Search for biotechnology-related college programs by visiting the Bio-Link Web site, https://www.bio-link.org/home2/programs.

Attend industry events such as the Renewable Fuels Association’s annual National Ethanol Conference to network with people working in the field and learn more about job opportunities.

For More Information

The ABFA consists of member companies that have skills and knowledge to build better fuels to transform America to a low-carbon economy.

Advanced Biofuels Association (ABFA)

800 17th St., NW, Suite 1100

Washington, D.C. 20006-3962

http://www.advancedbiofuelsassociation.com

The ACS provides information about chemistry careers and approved education programs, among many other resources.

American Chemical Society (ACS)

1155 16th Street, NW

Washington, D.C. 20036-4839

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

https://www.acs.org

The ACEEE has a mission to advance energy efficiencient policies, programs, technologies, investments, and behaviors.

American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)

529 14th Street, NW, Suite 600

Washington, D.C. 20045-1000

Tel: [phone]

https://aceee.org

The AIBS offers publications, networking opportunities, policy information, and other information related to biological sciences.

American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS)

950 Herndon Parkway, Suite 450

Herndon, VA 20170

Tel: [phone]

https://www.aibs.org

The AIC offers information about construction careers.

American Institute of Constructors and the Constructor Certification Commission (AIC)

19 Mantua Road

Mount Royal, NY 08061-1006

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

https://www.professionalconstructor.org

The ASEE has information about engineering schools and career resources.

American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)

1818 N Street, NW, Suite 600

Washington, D.C. 20036-2479

Tel: [phone]

https://www.asee.org

The ASA offers education, certification, publications, and other resources for people interested in careers in agronomy.

American Society of Agronomy (ASA)

5585 Guilford Road

Madison, WI 53711-5801

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

https://www.agronomy.org

APICS offers education and certification programs and other resources for industrial production management professionals.

The Association for Supply Chain Management

8430 West Bryn Mawr Avenue, Suite 1000

Chicago, IL 60631-3417

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

http://www.apics.org

BIO represents members who are involved in research and development in health care, agricultural, industrial, and environmental biotechnology products.

Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO)

1201 Maryland Avenue, SW, Suite 900

Washington, D.C. 20024-6129

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

https://www.bio.org

The Institute offers information on biotechnology careers and industry facts.

Biotechnology Institute

1201 Maryland Avenue, SW, Suite 900

Washington, D.C. 20024-6129

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

http://www.biotechinstitute.org

The IFPTE is a labor union that represents people employed in professional, technical, administrative, and associated occupations in the United States and Canada.

International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE)

501 3rd Street, NW, Suite 701

Washington, D.C. 20001-2771

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

http://www.ifpte.org

The ISAAA shares and disseminates scientific knowledge about crop biotechnology to help solve environmental degradation and hunger and poverty.

International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA)

c/o IP CALs, B75 Mann Library

Ithaca, NY 14853

Tel: [phone]

E-mail: [e-mail]

http://www.isaaa.org

Find out more about engineering careers by visiting

Junior Engineering Technical Society

1420 King Street, Suite 405

Alexandria, VA 22314-2750

Tel: [phone]

http://www.jets.org

The RFA provides industry news and updates and general information on bioenergy.

Renewable Fuels Association (RFA)

425 Third Street, SW, Suite 1150

Washington, D.C. 20024-3231

Tel: [phone]

https://www.ethanolrfa.org

The DOE has information about bioenergy and bioenergy programs on its Web site.

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

1000 Independence Ave. SW

Washington, D.C. 20585-0001

Tel: [phone]

https://www.energy.gov/science-innovation/energy-sources/renewable-energy/bioenergy

Did You Know?: Popular Biofuels: Ethanol and Biodiesel

Organic materials can be converted directly into liquid fuels, known as biofuels. Ethanol and biodiesel are both derived from biomass, which are renewable sources that can be burned or decomposed to be used for energy sources. Ethanol and biodiesel have been used in transportation fuel for years.

Ethanol is an alcohol that is made from plant materials, such as plant starches and sugars. It's most commonly used to blend with gasoline, resulting in higher octane and reduced carbon monoxide and other toxic emissions. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, ethanol is found in approximately 97 percent of the gasoline in the United States.

Biodiesel is a nontoxic, biodegradable liquid fuel that is also made from renewable resources, like vegetable oils and animal fats. Unlike petroleum-based diesel fuel, which burns dirty, biodiesel burns cleaner. It is combined with petroleum and used to fuel compression-ignition engines. A common biodiesel and petroleum blend consists of 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent petroleum diesel.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Biofuels Production Managers

Quick Facts