Control and monitor biomass plant activities and perform maintenance as needed.
SOC: 51-8013.03
Common Job Titles
Auxiliary Operator
Fuel Handler
Operations Technician (Operations Tech)
Plant Operator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onOperate biomass boilers, steam turbines, and conveyor systems in renewable energy production facilities, monitoring for optimal performance and safety.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate plant operational parameters and process data using distributed control systems to ensure compliance with performance standards.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze chemical composition and quality data of biomass feedstock to optimize combustion efficiency and meet regulatory requirements.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess equipment malfunctions and process deviations in real-time plant operations, making critical decisions to maintain safety and production targets.
Proficient
KnowledgeExplain plant operations, safety procedures, and equipment functionality when training new technicians and coordinating with maintenance personnel.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform preventive and corrective maintenance on mechanical equipment including grinders, screeners, and fuel metering conveyors, following established safety protocols.
Developing
Hands-onOperate wheeled front-end loaders and material handling equipment to manage biomass fuel inventory and facilitate plant operations.
Developing
KnowledgeApply knowledge of mechanical systems, chemistry, and engineering principles when troubleshooting fluidized bed boilers and heat recovery steam generators.
Developing
MindsetEngage with supervisors and team members in collaborative problem-solving during shift operations and emergency response situations.
Developing
Hands-onExecute routine inspections of equipment, structures, and process materials using inspection protocols and documenting findings in computerized maintenance systems.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Biomass Plant Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
30,720
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $59,930. 25th percentile: U.S. $77,400. 50th percentile: U.S. $99,670. 75th percentile: U.S. $111,980. 90th percentile: U.S. $128,760. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$59,930
10% of workers earn the following or more
$128,760
Workers on average earn
$95,990
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Mechanical3.9/5
Chemistry3.4/5
English Language3.3/5
Production and Processing3.3/5
Engineering and Technology3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
