Bioenergy Career Map: Plant Manager

• Experience serving in a supervisory role
• Advanced knowledge of basic facility management (i.e., personnel management, plans and programming, financial management, operations management, construction management)
• Ability to gather data, analyze, and prepare short and long-range plans and activities
• Advanced knowledge of math and science concepts related to bioenergy.

Biorefineries are a key component of the bioenergy supply chain in converting aquatic and terrestrial biomass into an intermediate substance that can be turned into fuels, chemicals, or other bioproducts. Biorefinery employees work to keep the plant operational and efficient, in order to maximize outputs for distribution to upgrading facilities and end consumers.

Industrial plant activities generally revolve around keeping the plant operational, and can include working with heavy industrial equipment, fixing any worn or broken machinery parts, and testing the quality of the end products. Within the bioenergy sector, plant workers can also be engaged with combining chemicals and testing fuel and chemical end product quality.
 
At the senior level, the plant manager is directing the day-to-day operation, maintenance, and administration of the biorefinery facility. Plant managers supervise a diverse workforce, ensure compliance with all laws and safety requirements, and ensure the effectiveness of services and processes. A bachelor’s degree in engineering or business administration is required, with preference for a master’s or professional degree. In addition, project management and supervisory experience is recommended.