Plant Operations Assistant - Heritage FS - Bourbonnais, IL

The FS brand represents a standard of excellence for agricultural and energy-related products. It's the people who represent the FS brand that set it apart. As local cooperatives, FS Companies believe it is their responsibility to ensure that our earth, our communities, and businesses perform together, sustainably. FS Companies are committed to ensuring the continued profitability for the company, their owners, and their customers, while enacting to help the environment and greater good.

At Heritage FS, we take pride not only in our business, but in our people.  We offer a strong benefits package, featuring a defined benefit pension plan and 401k plan, as well as paid vacation and discretionary time for all full-time employees, and support for continuing education.  Heritage FS provides a full range of farm supplies and services, including agronomy, seed, fertilizer, fuel, financing, marketing advice and products.  We also offer a full-line of energy products such as gasoline, ethanol, biodiesel, diesel fuel, propane, and lubricants.

We’re a company with deep roots throughout our territory and we work to honor those communities through our high standards of business and by supporting numerous local events and projects.  We have a culture of hard work, dedication, and teamwork.  As a member-owned cooperative we take great pride in the work we do in our eleven-county territory because we live here, too.  Our customers are our neighbors and we don’t take that lightly.  We know we are stronger by hiring resourceful and considerate members of our communities.

SALARY/PAY RANGE  $17.00 – $19.00 per hour (non-exempt)

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Under the direction of the Location Manager, performs general plant operations, maintenance, and yard duties to support the daily activities of the facility. Responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, and organized plant environment, assisting with equipment upkeep, and supporting operations staff as needed.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Performs routine plant maintenance and assists with repairs on facility equipment and structures to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Operates forklifts and other material handling equipment to safely move, load, unload, and organize materials within the plant and yard.

Maintains the facility grounds including mowing, snow removal, sweeping, and general yard upkeep to keep the plant clean and organized.

Assists with moving equipment, materials, and supplies within the plant using appropriate equipment and safe work practices.

Performs general labor tasks including cleaning equipment, warehouses, and work areas to maintain operational standards.

Supports operations staff with loading, unloading, and staging materials as needed.

Conducts basic inspections of equipment and reports maintenance issues or safety concerns to the Location Manager.

Follows all company safety policies and procedures, including the use of proper personal protective equipment (PPE).

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

Responsible for maintaining company tools and equipment according to company standards.

May assist operations staff during busy seasons with general operational tasks as directed.

Performs buildings and grounds maintenance as assigned.

Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

Normally requires a high school diploma or the equivalent thereof and 1 year or more of related work experience involving maintenance, general labor, equipment operation, or a similar work environment.

Ability to operate basic equipment such as lawn mowers, skid loaders, forklifts, or other maintenance equipment is preferred.

Demonstrated core competencies including teamwork, communication, dependability, and attention to safety.

Must have a valid Illinois driver’s license and maintain a satisfactory driving record.

Ability to follow safety procedures and perform tasks in an agricultural or industrial environment.

Ability to work extended hours and occasional weekends as business conditions warrant.

Must be able to lift a minimum of 60 pounds of product, tools, or equipment and position those materials as required by a supervisor.

Must be able to climb ladders, stairs, and steps and work at required heights when performing maintenance tasks.

Occasionally exposed or required to:

• Extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, wet, etc.)

• Noisy conditions

• Working conditions may include dust, fumes, chemicals, and electrical hazards requiring utilization of appropriate safety measures

• May be required to work at varying heights

We are an equal opportunity employer, including protected veterans and qualified individuals with disabilities. Employment may be contingent upon receipt of an acceptable and job-related background check, drug test, motor vehicle report, and/or reference check, as applicable and permissible by law.

We are dedicated to supporting the long-term financial well-being of our employees through a fully funded pension, a cornerstone benefit that ensures security for the future. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with a variety of supplemental plans like accident, critical illness, disability, hospital indemnity, and identity theft protection. To promote a healthy work-life balance, employees enjoy generous paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays, giving you time to recharge and focus on what matters most. Additionally, our 401(k) plan with company matching helps you plan for retirement, while our free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) supports your overall well-being. Whether you're starting your career, balancing family life, or planning for retirement, our company is committed to providing employees with a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that meets your needs at every stage. Benefits eligibility may vary depending on the position.

Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law.  In addition to base pay, certain roles may be eligible for bonuses, incentives, and commissions.