Visit the following Web sites to learn more about biofuels: https://www.energy.gov/eere/bioenergy/biofuel-basics and https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/biofuels.

An information interview with someone working in the field is a great way to get firsthand details about the job and whats required for entry. You might also consider participating in a job-shadowing experience, in which you observe technicians at work. Ask your schools career services office for help in locating a biofuels professional to speak with and/or shadow. Finally, get involved in summer exploration programs in science and manufacturing that are offered by colleges and universities.

Approximately 5 percent of U.S. energy is derived from bioenergy such as corn, soybeans, and wood, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. 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.

Biofuels processing technicians 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.