Plant Operator

Who we are:  

Electra is reinventing ironmaking from the ground up with a breakthrough electrochemical technology that produces high-purity, clean iron and critical co-minerals. With two operating pilots in Boulder and a new demonstration facility underway in Jefferson County, we’re on track to reach commercial scale by the end of the decade. Backed by over $300 million and strategic partnerships with global leaders across mining, steel, and big tech, momentum is on our side.  Recognized by Fast Company as a Most Innovative Company and a Next Big Thing in Tech, and named one of TIME’s 100 Climate Leaders, we’re building a company shaping the future of industry. If you’re looking to make an impact and join a team that’s driven, focused, and scaling, we want to hear from you.

What you will do:  

Electra is seeking a dependable and safety-conscious Senior Plant Operator to support routine operations at its production facility during routine shifts (Day or Night, including weekends).   

We need highly attentive, technically skilled operators to oversee and manage real-time production operations on the production floor and from a centralized control room. This role is critical to ensuring safe, efficient, and continuous plant performance by monitoring process parameters, responding to and resolving alarms, proactively engaging with leadership and engineering, and coordinating with fellow operators and maintenance teams. The ideal candidate will have strong situational awareness and a commitment to operational excellence.   

This role involves executing semi-routine tasks using established procedures, operating SCADA and DCS control equipment, and supporting safe, efficient plant performance.  

Responsibilities include:

• Follow safety protocols, wear required PPE, and maintain a clean work environment   
• Operate both continuous and batch electrochemical plant equipment as well as full plant automation systems according to standard operating procedures   
• Adjust operation parameters within ranges using DCS, SCADA, or PLC interfaces to proactively maintain performance and quality 
• Execute startup, shutdown, and changeover activities on pumping, piping, heating, cooling, reaction, separation, filtration, conveying, loading and unloading supersacks, tote swaps, crane operations, filling, mixing and transport operations 
• Monitor process parameters, maintain desired status, and report deviations or abnormalities    
• Respond to process alarms and safely remedy conditions to desired state  
• Responsible for preparing, following, and issuing Life Critical Safety Permits, including Lock Out Tag Out Try Out, Line Break, Hot Work, Confined Space.  
• Perform digital transactions in ERP system matching physical movement of materials  
• Assist with running process equipment , including filter presses, with the ability to remove bulk waste materials in bags to proper storage locations  
• Conduct sampling and testing per quality guidelines with the ability to adjust process parameters based on sample results 
• Perform routine inspections and basic troubleshooting of equipment   
• Record operational data logs and maintain accurate shift logs  
• Support troubleshooting efforts and assist in diagnosing equipment or process issues   
• Support maintenance team members during planned or unplanned shutdowns  
• Communicate effectively with team members, maintenance and supervisors   
• Participate in safety meetings, shift handovers and continuous improvement efforts   
• Flexibility required to work various shifts, including daytime, swing shifts, and evenings. Overtime shifts will be required and may be mandatory.   

What we need you to bring to the team:   

• High school diploma or GED with equivalent work experience   
• 8+ years of experience in industrial operations experience
• Experience with chemical, metallurgical, mining, brewing, pharma, utility or industrial processing systems  
• Experience in continuous or batch processing environment   
• Experience controlling industrial processes via SCADA or DCS   
• Ability to follow established procedures and instructions with minimal supervision   
• Basic understanding of mechanical and process systems   
• Ability to read and interpret gauges, meters, and control panels   
• Strong attention to detail, aptitude for math, ability to recognize and report issues   
• Good communication, collaboration and teamwork skills   
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup and commissioning environment, demonstrating agility, flexibility, and a proactive mindset to support evolving business needs, operational readiness, and continuous improvement efforts
• Excellent situational awareness and decision-making under pressure   
• Ability to work safely in a team-oriented, physically demanding environment   
• Required to complete OSHA HAZWOPER 40 hr. certification  
• Mandatory participation on Emergency Response Team 

Must be willing and able to perform safety-sensitive job functions including but not limited to:  

• Operating industrial powered vehicles. 
• Operating material handling cranes and hoists. 
• Operating aerial work platforms. 
• Working at heights, including use of all required personal fall arrest equipment. 
• Executing hazardous energy isolation procedures 
• Performing work inside of confined spaces 
• Perform work while wearing a respirator 

Must be willing and able to submit to medical evaluations and be deemed by a healthcare professional to perform safety-sensitive job functions. Employment is contingent upon (1) acceptable medical evaluation confirming ability to perform safety-sensitive job functions; and (2) pre-employment post-offer drug screen.  

What we want you to bring to the team:   

• BS degree or technical training in process technology 
• Forklift Certification, Lock Out Tag Out, Confined Space Entry, or other relevant safety certifications (Electra will provide training)  
• Familiarity with acid handling 

Compensation:  
The anticipated starting pay range for this position is $37.50-$45.60 per hour. Compensation will vary based on experience and qualifications, with offers determined by skills, experience, and overall alignment with the role. The top of the salary range is usually reserved for candidates with highly specialized expertise and extensive relevant experience.  

At Electra, We Invest in Your Future 

At Electra, we invest in the well-being, financial security, and long-term success of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family—both at work and at home. 

We are proud to offer: 

• 100% Employer-Paid Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance – Full premium coverage for full-time employees, spouses/domestic partners, and dependents at no cost to you  
• Equity – Share in Electra's success through company equity  
• 401(k) with 5% Employer Match – Immediately 100% vested, so every employer contribution is yours once you're eligible  
• Health Savings Account (HSA) – Employer contributions of $1,800 for individuals and $3,600 for families  
• Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays – Time to rest, recharge, and focus on what matters most  
• 12 Weeks of 100% Paid Parental Leave – Supporting your family during life's biggest moments  
• 100% Employer-Paid Life Insurance & AD&D – Coverage equal to 2x your annual salary  
• 100% Employer-Paid Disability Insurance – Income protection when you need it most  
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) – Pre-tax savings for eligible healthcare and dependent care expenses  
• Supplemental Accident & Critical Illness Insurance – Additional financial protection for unexpected events  
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) – Confidential mental health, financial, and wellness resources available to you and your family 

If you need an accommodation during the application or interview process, reach out to us at careers@electra.earth We’re here to help.