The Department of Animal Sciences within the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) at WSU is seeking a dedicated, skilled Anaerobic Digester Operator to join our team in Pullman, WA.
This is an exciting opportunity to manage a brand-new facility at the Knott Dairy Center. The anaerobic digester will upcycle manure and soiled bedding to significantly reduce emissions, generate renewable energy, and produce valuable byproducts like fertilizer and cow bedding.
Key Responsibilities
- Daily Operations: Oversee, monitor, and maintain facility systems to ensure safe, compliant, and efficient performance.
- Collaboration & Troubleshooting: Partner closely with external contractors (such as Regenis) and use operational data to identify, analyze, and resolve technical issues.
- Hands-on Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance and coordinate critical repairs for electronic and mechanical equipment while maintaining a clean, safe environment.
- Communication & Compliance: Maintain accurate operational records, report site conditions to leadership, and support ongoing environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance efforts.
Required Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of specialization plus three (3) years of directly related experience (equivalent education and experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis).
- A valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain one by hire date) meeting university standards.
- Ability to complete an OSHA-accepted fit test.
- Ability to obtain fall protection, CPR, first aid, and AED training within 6 months of hire.
- Flexibility to serve as the primary contact for system alerts and respond promptly to urgent situations outside of standard business hours.
Preferred Qualifications
- Practical knowledge of anaerobic digesters, reactors, and industry best practices.
- Experience repairing and maintaining analog and digital electronic controllers/systems.
- Experience working with professional-level research protocols.
- A valid Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).