ABOUT POET

At POET, it is our mission to be good stewards of the Earth by converting renewable resources to energy and other valuable goods as effectively as humanly possible. For over thirty years our drive and passion to change the world has enabled us to become the largest producer and marketer of bioethanol and a leader in sustainable products in the world.

BENEFITS & PERKS

Eligible Team Members may receive

• $$ Competitive BONUS opportunities - up to SIX bonuses per year (Quarterly Profit Sharing & Value Share)

• Paid time off and paid holidays - 40 hours of PTO available on Day 1, on top of a biweekly PTO accrual program!

• Comprehensive benefits package; Individual and family plans for health, dental, & vision insurance, including a generous employer Health Savings Account contribution

• Competitive pay, including shift premium pay for qualifying positions

• 401K with company match

• Paid Parental Leave

• Tuition reimbursement

• Attractive Relocation Assistance and Bonus Programs for qualifying positions and/or locations

• Safety and cold weather gear reimbursements

• Discounted home and auto insurance

All POET Team Members enjoy

• A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spiritually

• 'Family-first' culture

• Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements

JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES

Are you a high school student with a curious mind and a passion for hands-on learning? Join our Plant Technician Intern Program, where you can job-shadow real technicians in our highly innovative bioprocessing facility!

Schedule/Timeframe: This position will require up to 10-20 hours per week. The program will run for the 2025-2026 school year.

What You'll Do

• Shadow real technicians in a highly automated bioprocessing facility

• Learn the operation of plant processing equipment and perform routine basic maintenance in a highly automated chemical facility

• Learn the safe and efficient maintenance, basic repair, and cleaning of equipment associated with bioprocessing processes

• Assist experienced Maintenance Technicians in more technical and complex maintenance procedures

• Learn how to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) like a pro

• Gain knowledge of process flows, safety protocols, and computerized equipment

What You’ll Learn

• How a real-world plant operates

• The basics of chemical and bioprocessing systems

• Safety awareness and technical problem-solving

• What it’s like to be part of a professional, team-based environment

What We’re Looking For

• Must be enrolled in a high school work-based learn program or a high school diploma or equivalent (required)

• High school students (age 16+) with an interest in science, tech, or trades

• Curious, motivated, and ready to learn

• Able to follow safety guidelines and work responsibly

• No prior experience needed!

• Communicate effectively in writing and in person

• Know the basics of Microsoft Office Suite/Capable of learning new programs

Why You'll Love It

• Gain hands-on experience that goes beyond the classroom

• Explore a high-demand career path firsthand

• Stand out on college and job applications

• Work with cutting-edge equipment and inspiring mentors

Physical Requirements

• Due to the physical and safety-sensitive nature of this job, you will be subject to a physical and expected to pass a drug screen during the pre-screen process. During employment, you’ll be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.

• This role has some physical requirements that our team members will need to be able to perform, such as:

  • Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, hazardous material suit, hearing protection, and harness.

  • Must be able to use the following equipment/tools, with training provided (not all encompassing): power washer, various hand tools, and computers.

  • Frequently:

    • Sitting in a chair in the Control Room while operating the plant

    • Walk indoors and outdoors sometimes over rough, uneven, or wet/slick surfaces

    • Carry to up to 15lbs

    • Climb stairs and/or ladders

    • Stand indoors to clean and maintain areas

    • Reach at arm’s length to gather samples

    • Bend while standing

    • Use repetitive arm motions to wipe down and maintain work area

  • Occasionally:

    • Lift up to 50lbs, with or without assistance

    • Carry up to 40 lbs, with or without assistance

    • Push with a force of 10lbs, with or without assistance

    • Pull with a force of up to 85lbs, with or without assistance

    • Bend, twist, turn, kneel, and crouch, while holding light and medium weighted objects

  • Since we are all about teamwork, you may be asked to help other roles that have their own unique set of physical requirements.

Work Environment

• Team members will be required to adhere to all safety requirements at all times and in all work environments. This position is exposed to work in multiple environments, including plant, laboratory, as well as an office environment. You may be exposed to high noise levels, moving mechanical parts, dusty conditions, internal and external temperature/weather conditions, and chemicals.

CULTURE IS KING AT POET

We’re all on the same team. We always communicate. And we park our egos at the door. These aren’t just slogans on our walls. It’s the way we do things at POET. We provide an environment for team members to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It’s the best way to optimize health, wellness, and productivity in a sustainable way. We work hard. We play hard. We have frequent team events, volunteer efforts, and we know how to celebrate wins!

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

At POET we encourage internal development and growth by allowing team members to carve their own path to success. Leaders support team members with the necessary resources to develop their skills, achieve goals, and create the most value. We believe in developing our team members to their highest potential and recognizing contributions that add value to the organization. Each new team member’s position and compensation are carefully determined by considering their unique qualifications and skillset.

POET is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). POET complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws regarding hiring and employment. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.