Biofuels Processing Technicians
Overview
Introduction
Biofuels processing techniciansare 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 ...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, in May 2023, power plant operators (a career category that includes biofuels processing technicians), had median annual incomes of $97,010, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $54,080 and the top 10 percent earning $123,120 or more. Salaries vary depending on experience and type of employer. For example, experienced technicians who worked for ...
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 weeken...
Outlook
Funding for biofuels and bioenergy research and development continues to grow, creating more job opportunities for biofuels professionals. 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...