High School

Biofuels processing technicians rely on their knowledge of math and science. Be sure to take as many classes as possible in math, biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental science, and physics. Strong communication skills are also needed for this type of work; English and foreign language classes are useful. The job entails knowledge of machinery and equipment, so take shop classes.

Postsecondary Training

A high school diploma may be sufficient to work as a biofuels processing technician but education beyond high school often leads to more job opportunities and better pay. Energy and manufacturing companies may prefer to hire technicians who hold an associate's or bachelor's degree, with a focus in biomanufacturing or biofuels technology. Courses in biology, chemistry, math, electronics, English, and computer software programs are typically included in the curriculum. Some companies may hire technicians who have degrees in other areas but who have prior work experience in the bioenergy or related field.

Find educational programs, job listings, and internship opportunities in clean energy through the U.S. Department of Energy's Web site, https://www.energy.gov/eere/education/education-homepage. The National Science Foundation offers a list of college programs that offer biofuels-related degrees and certificates at https://www.bio-link.org/home2/home/degrees.

Other Education or Training

The Renewable Fuels Association offers continuing education opportunities at its National Ethanol Conference. Other professional associations provide continuing education classes, webinars, and conferences in their particular specialty. For example, the American Society of Agronomy offers an online class in agronomy.

Certification or Licensing

Certification is voluntary and can improve job prospects. Biofuels technician certification programs are offered through community colleges and technical schools. Certificate programs typically include classes on biodiesel, ethanol, biofuels processing, fermentation, feedstocks, preparation, process control, lab quality control, and safety.

Biofuels processing technicians with an associate's degree, an apprenticeship or one or more years of related work experience, and certification have good chances of securing work. Strong knowledge of various software programs for operating and monitoring production processes and machinery is essential for this job. These programs include computerized maintenance management system software (CMMS) for facilities management; digital control systems (DCS) and human machine interface (HMI) for industrial control; inventory control software; spreadsheet software such as Microsoft Excel; and Word processing software such as Microsoft Word.

In addition to math, science, and technical skills, technicians must have strong communication skills, for recording data and writing reports and sharing information with others in clear, understandable ways. They are knowledgeable about production and processing, machines and tools, and safety procedures and processes. They understand chemical compositions, chemical interactions, production techniques, and disposal methods. Detail-oriented people who are dependable, cooperative, have integrity, and work well independently and with others do well in this field.