This position is responsible for conducting test and experiments to advance the Ethanol production process.

Pacific Ethanol, Inc. (PEI) is a public traded company headquartered in Sacramento, CA.  PEI markets ethanol to major and independent oil companies from either third party sources in the Midwest or from one of the plants it is building in the West. The company also markets the feed co-products through it Ag Products division to livestock feeding customers in locations where it has production facilities.  The production facilities are strategically located to process corn to make ethanol, and feed products, taking advantage of unparalleled efficiencies in energy uses, waste reduction, water use and transportation costs.

The following is a list of essential duties and responsibilities for this position along with certain supportive duties; this list is not all-inclusive. This job description may be modified as needed.

1. Identifies opportunities to improve ethanol production through testing and experimenting; prepares equipment, products and material for experiments and surveys;
2. Evaluates test results, records findings, and writes reports on tested samples, and recommends corrective action and adjustments;
3. Maintains and accurately records test results in an automated or manual recording system;
4. Prepares samples for shipment to laboratories for complex chemical analysis;
5. Monitors production trends and data;
6. Monitors laboratory materials and reports supplies that are needed;
7. Complies with state, and federal laws, policies, and regulations, and adheres to quality assurance programs and safety standards; Complies with safety programs and standards to minimize safety hazards/injuries;
8. Monitors and reports weekly and/or monthly the status of testing results;
9. Monitors laboratory materials and reports supplies that are needed;
10. Communicates regularly with the Bio-Chemical Manager to keep him/her informed of chemical research and testing results;
11. Completes daily production reports.

1. Attends and participates in professional work related meetings/ conferences to enhance professional development;
2. Travels to work-sites to pick-up and deliver product samples.

1. Bachelors of Science or equivalent: preferably in bio-chemistry or related field;
2. Two to three years lab or chemistry experience.

1. Excellent computer skills; Excel and other computer software;
2. Creative, open-minded; excellent problem solving skills;
3. Excellent hand-eye coordination skills;
4. Excellent written and oral communication skills;
5. Excellent research and analytical skills; strong math skills;
6. Safety cautious;
7. Bilingual language skills (English/Spanish) preferred.
8. Must have the ability to work different shifts and overtime.  This includes the possibility of short-term and long-term shift reassignment to match the needs of the business.

1. Must be able to work in cold to hot temperatures; work around dust, fumes, and/or moderate to loud noises;
2. Able to lift, pull, carry, and pick-up average to heavy objects weighing up to 40 pounds;
3. Able to walk on paved and unpaved surfaces; sit at a desk and operate a computer and keyboard for long periods of time; visual acuity to review written documentation; ability to hear and understand speech at normal room levels and on the telephone; manual dexterity to operate a telephone; lift horizontally and vertically, bend, stoop, stand, and reach;
4. Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.