Biomass Facility Supervisor in Kansas Career Overview

As a Biomass Facility Supervisor, you play a vital role in the management and operations of facilities that convert biomass into renewable energy and other useful products. Your responsibilities encompass overseeing daily operations, ensuring that processes run efficiently, and maintaining safety and environmental standards.

In this position, you are integral to the following:

  • Operations Management: You supervise the various stages of biomass processing, ensuring that all activities align with regulatory standards and operational goals.

  • Team Leadership: You lead a diverse team, providing guidance and support to ensure that everyone is trained and works cohesively towards common objectives.

  • Quality Control: Maintaining the quality of biomass and the final products is essential. You implement monitoring systems to ensure compliance with industry standards.

  • Safety and Compliance: You enforce safety procedures and environmental regulations to minimize risks associated with biomass processing. Your expertise helps in creating a safer working environment for all employees.

  • Problem Solving: You assess operational challenges promptly and effectively, developing strategies to enhance productivity and efficiency while addressing any issues that arise in the facility.

  • Collaboration: You work closely with engineers, technicians, and other stakeholders, sharing insights and data to optimize operations and improve the facility's overall performance.

Your role as a Biomass Facility Supervisor not only contributes to the efficiency and productivity of the facility but also supports the broader goals of sustainability and renewable energy within the state and beyond.

Biomass Facility Supervisor Salary in Kansas

Annual Median: $114,810
Hourly Median: $55.2

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Biomass Facility Supervisor in Kansas

To become a Biomass Facility Supervisor in Kansas, you will need a relevant educational background and specialized training. Consider pursuing one of the following degree programs:

  • Agroecology and Sustainable Agriculture
    This program focuses on the sustainable management of agricultural systems and integrates ecological principles, which can be beneficial in overseeing biomass production that aligns with agricultural practices.

  • Energy Systems Engineering
    This degree provides a solid foundation in the design and management of energy systems, equipping you with the technical know-how to optimize biomass energy production and processing.

  • Energy Systems Technology
    A program in this field will impart the practical skills required for the operation and maintenance of energy systems, including those used in biomass facilities to convert organic materials into energy.

  • Environmental Engineering Technology
    This degree emphasizes the application of engineering principles to environmental challenges, offering insights into the compliance and sustainability aspects necessary for managing biomass facilities.

  • Forestry
    A degree in forestry offers knowledge about forest management and the sustainable use of forestry resources, which is vital for a role that involves the supervision of biomass sourced from wood and crop residues.

In addition to formal education, gaining hands-on experience through internships or vocational training related to biomass energy systems can further enhance your qualifications for this role.

Best Schools to become a Biomass Facility Supervisor in Kansas 2024

#1Alachua County

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

In-State Tuition:$4,477
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,694
Admission Rate:23%
Graduation Rate:90%
Total Enrollment:55,211
#2Montgomery County

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$12,104
Out-of-State Tuition:$31,754
Admission Rate:57%
Graduation Rate:86%
Total Enrollment:38,170
#3Lubbock County

Texas Tech University

Lubbock, TX

In-State Tuition:$8,935
Out-of-State Tuition:$21,204
Admission Rate:67%
Graduation Rate:64%
Total Enrollment:40,378
#4Hampshire County

University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA

In-State Tuition:$16,186
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,405
Admission Rate:64%
Graduation Rate:83%
Total Enrollment:32,229
#5Fresno County

Reedley College

Reedley, CA

In-State Tuition:$1,104
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,664
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:36%
Total Enrollment:7,086
#6Portage County

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Stevens Point, WI

In-State Tuition:$6,698
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,402
Admission Rate:89%
Graduation Rate:56%
Total Enrollment:7,964
Biomass Facility Supervisor Job Description:
  • Manage operations at biomass power generation facilities.
  • Direct work activities at plant, including supervision of operations and maintenance staff.

Biomass Facility Supervisor Required Skills and Competencies in Kansas

  • Technical Knowledge: You should possess a solid understanding of biomass conversion processes, energy production, and environmental regulations related to biomass facilities. Familiarity with equipment used in biomass energy production is essential.

  • Leadership Skills: As a supervisor, you are responsible for managing teams. Strong leadership abilities will help you motivate staff, delegate tasks effectively, and ensure a cohesive work environment.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to analyze issues, identify root causes, and develop effective solutions is vital. You must be adept at troubleshooting technical problems that can arise in a biomass facility.

  • Communication Skills: You need excellent verbal and written communication skills to clearly convey information to your team, other departments, and external stakeholders, ensuring that everyone is aligned with operational goals.

  • Safety Awareness: A strong understanding of safety protocols and environmental compliance is necessary. You should prioritize safety measures to protect both personnel and the facility while minimizing environmental impact.

  • Record Keeping and Reporting: Maintaining accurate logs and data regarding facility operations, production levels, and compliance with regulations is crucial. Proficiency in using software tools for these tasks will enhance efficiency.

  • Regulatory Knowledge: Staying updated on local, state, and federal regulations related to biomass energy production and environmental standards is important for compliance and operational integrity.

  • Project Management Skills: You should be able to plan, execute, and oversee projects within the facility, ensuring that they are completed on time and within budget while meeting the facility's operational objectives.

  • Analytical Skills: Strong analytical abilities will help you interpret data related to facility performance and make informed decisions for process improvements.

  • Team Building: You should foster a positive team culture, encouraging collaboration and professional development among your staff to enhance overall facility performance.

Job Duties for Biomass Facility Supervisors

  • Manage safety programs at power generation facilities.

  • Review biomass operations performance specifications to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

  • Review logs, datasheets, or reports to ensure adequate production levels and safe production environments or to identify abnormalities with power production equipment or processes.

Technologies and Skills Used by Biomass Facility Supervisors

Electronic mail software

  • Microsoft Outlook

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Talking to others
  • Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Resource Management

  • Managing your time and the time of other people
  • Selecting and managing the best workers for a job

Job Market and Opportunities for Biomass Facility Supervisor in Kansas

The job market for Biomass Facility Supervisors in Kansas is characterized by a growing demand as the state increasingly emphasizes renewable energy initiatives. Here’s what you can expect regarding current trends, growth potential, and geographical hotspots:

  • Increasing Demand: As the state moves towards sustainable energy sources, there is a rising need for skilled supervisors to manage biomass facilities efficiently. The focus on reducing carbon footprints and investing in renewable energy has led to more facilities opening across the state.

  • Growth Potential: The biomass energy sector is projected to expand significantly. With technological advancements and more governmental support, facilities are likely to increase in number and capacity. This growth will create new supervisory positions and increase job security for those already employed in the sector.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Wichita: Known for its strong commitment to renewable energy, this city has multiple biomass facilities and projects which lead to numerous opportunities for supervisors.
    • Topeka: The state capital is home to various renewable energy initiatives, enhancing the demand for biomass-related roles.
    • Lawrence: With a vibrant research community and proximity to the University of Kansas, Lawrence is an emerging region for biomass innovation and facility management.
    • Northwest Kansas: This region has been increasingly turning to biomass as an alternative energy source, thus opening up job opportunities in rural areas where facilities are being developed.

  • Networking and Community Engagement: Local organizations and industry groups focused on renewable energy are actively promoting growth in the biomass sector. Engaging with these groups can provide leads on job opportunities and industry trends.

As Kansas moves forward with its renewable energy agenda, the role of the Biomass Facility Supervisor is positioned to become more integral, offering a promising outlook for career advancement in the state.

Top Related Careers to Biomass Facility Supervisor 2024

Biomass Plant Operations Manager
Renewable Energy Plant Manager
Biomass Operations Director
Sustainable Power Generation Manager

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Biomass Facility Supervisor in Kansas

  • U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

    • Website: www.energy.gov
    • Access a wealth of information on biomass energy, technology advancements, and funding opportunities.

  • Biomass Research and Development Board

    • Website: www.biomassboard.gov
    • Explore resources, reports, and plans specifically focused on biomass research initiatives.

  • National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

    • Website: www.nrel.gov
    • Review publications, research, and data related to renewable energy, including biomass.

  • Kansas State University Renewable Energy

    • Website: www.ksre.k-state.edu
    • Discover programs, research, and resources focusing on renewable energy, including biomass systems.

  • Biomass Power Association

    • Website: www.biomasspanow.com
    • Engage with information on biomass energy policies, industry developments, and networking opportunities.

  • The Biomass Energy Resource Center

  • Renewable Energy World

  • U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Biomass

    • Website: www.epa.gov
    • Find regulations, guidelines, and resources pertaining to biomass as a renewable fuel source.

  • International Biomass Conference & Expo

    • Website: www.biomassconference.com
    • Participate in an annual event focused on the biomass sector, featuring networking, exhibits, and educational sessions.

  • Kansas Department of Health and Environment

    • Website: www.kdheks.gov
    • Access state-specific regulations and resources that pertain to environmental management and energy.

These resources will provide you with valuable information on biomass, technical and management training opportunities, and connect you to professional networks in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Biomass Facility Supervisor in Kansas

  • What are the primary responsibilities of a Biomass Facility Supervisor?
    As a Biomass Facility Supervisor, you oversee the daily operations of a biomass processing facility. This includes managing staff, ensuring safety compliance, monitoring production processes, maintaining equipment, and optimizing resource use to enhance efficiency.

  • What qualifications are required to become a Biomass Facility Supervisor?
    A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required. Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in environmental science, engineering, or a related field, along with experience in facility management or renewable energy operations.

  • What skills are essential for success in this role?
    You should possess strong leadership abilities, excellent communication skills, and a solid understanding of biomass processing technologies. Problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

  • Is prior experience necessary for this position?
    While prior experience in the biomass industry or a similar environment is beneficial, some positions may accept candidates with relevant experience in operations management or other roles within renewable energy sectors.

  • What safety regulations must I be familiar with?
    You should be knowledgeable about OSHA regulations, environmental compliance standards, and specific safety protocols related to biomass processing to ensure a safe working environment for all employees.

  • What types of facilities do Biomass Facility Supervisors typically work in?
    You will primarily work in biomass processing plants, which may include facilities that convert organic material into energy, such as wood pellet production, anaerobic digestion facilities, or biofuel production plants.

  • What is the job outlook for Biomass Facility Supervisors in Kansas?
    Demand for renewable energy professionals, including Biomass Facility Supervisors, is expected to grow as the push for sustainable energy sources increases. This sector in Kansas is supported by state initiatives promoting renewable energy development.

  • What are the typical work hours for this position?
    As a Biomass Facility Supervisor, you may work standard business hours, but flexibility is often required to accommodate facility operations, which may include evenings, weekends, or on-call duties during emergencies.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
    Yes, with experience and additional training, you can advance to higher management positions, such as Operations Manager or Plant Manager, or specialize in areas like compliance or engineering within the biomass industry.

  • What kind of training programs are available for aspiring Biomass Facility Supervisors?
    You can find various training programs geared towards renewable energy and biomass processing at vocational schools, community colleges, and through online courses focusing on technical skills, safety protocols, and management practices.