Loader Operator

About the Role Koch Fertilizer, LLC is seeking a Loader Operator to join our Plant Operations team in Wever, Iowa. This role focuses on safely and efficiently loading trucks and railcars with fertilizer products, contributing to production reliability and on-time customer delivery. You will work outdoors in all weather, taking ownership and continuously improving loading processes.

What You'll Do

• Safely and efficiently load trucks and railcars with fertilizer products while maintaining throughput and identifying opportunities to improve loading efficiency.
• Perform repetitive task cycles including crawling under rail cars to manipulate valves, using pneumatic stairs and gangways to access shipping tankers and railcars for top loading.
• Manually manipulate articulated loading arms and hoses, opening and closing top hatches and connecting/disconnecting ammonia tankers.
• Work with various chemicals onsite, hazardous and non-hazardous; hazardous loading requires additional PPE provided by the company.
• Use small power tools; operate heavy equipment for dry fertilizer loading.
• Interact with DCS/HMI/PLC during loading tasks.
• Coordinate with operations, maintenance, and logistics teams to ensure smooth product flow and proactively address disruptions.
• Build positive relationships with truck drivers and rail personnel; communicate clearly and coordinate loading activities.
• Participate in training, apply what you learn in the field, and continue building capability to support the team.
• Identify and take ownership of problems, contribute to safety, reliability, and efficiency.

What We're Looking For

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Willing and able to perform the physical requirements: outdoors in all weather, climbing stairs/ladders and working at heights, walking long distances, repetitive tasks, wearing PPE including respirator, lifting up to 50 pounds, operating manual valves/equipment.
• Ability to operate automated systems and learn plant processes; ability to operate mobile equipment.
• Experience operating heavy equipment or working in an industrial, manufacturing, or agricultural environment.
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting experience.
• Experience working in a team-based, safety-critical environment.
• Demonstrated track record of learning new skills and taking on additional responsibilities.
• Not eligible for employment visa sponsorship.

Nice to Have

• Experience operating heavy equipment or working in industrial settings beyond basic requirements.
• Additional mechanical aptitude and hands-on troubleshooting experience.
• Prior experience in safety-critical teams and rapid problem resolution.
• Demonstrated ability to learn quickly and take on more responsibilities.

Compensation & Benefits

• Certifications and pay progression are tied to demonstrated capability in the role.
• The compensation range is not disclosed in the posting; actual pay may vary based on knowledge, skills, abilities, and geographic location.
• The role operates in a 24/7, 365-day facility with potential overtime and schedule changes due to holidays and seasonality.
• Koch companies emphasize a compensation philosophy and opportunities for growth based on performance.