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 leader in biobased products in the world. Beyond our world-class culture, POET team members enjoy competitive pay and perks including;

• A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spiritually
• Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements 
• Safety and cold weather gear, and more!

The POET Never Satisfied Internship openings are for Summer 2025. We post Internships in September with the intent to have interns selected by January 1st each year.

JOB SUMMARY

The Process Engineering Intern will assist the Process Engineering team with design, implementation, and specification of plant process systems and associated tasks.  The Process Engineering Intern will work under close guidance of the Process Engineers to complete assignments and develop knowledge and skills. 

DURING A TYPICAL DAY 

• Assist with the process designs under the supervision of Process Engineers, including, but not limited to:
• Block flow diagrams
• Process flow diagrams
• Piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID’s)
• Material and energy balances
• Design selection
• Specifying equipment
• Development of commissioning and operating procedures
• Complete data analysis of process information.
• Assist with on-site commissioning and start-up activities.
• Foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance at all times.
• Maintain a team environment at all times and champion POET in the community.
• Since we’re all about teamwork and getting the job done, your skill may be put to a lot of other uses!

STRENGTHS OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Junior or senior level status majoring in an accredited Engineering program, preferably in Chemical Engineering.
• You know the basics of Microsoft Office Suite. You’re capable of learning new programs.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills as well as the ability to adapt to change.
• You communicate effectively in writing and in person.
• You have the ability to understand technical and day to day operation of a bioprocessing facility.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• 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.
• Up to 75% travel will be part of the norm for this position to visit the bioprocessing facilities, meetings and site visits. At times overnight travel may be required.
• The work environment at POET is dynamic. You should expect a balance between time spent in the office and at the bioprocessing facility, which may include some physical labor helping your team members.
• Specific physical requirements may include:
• Sitting for approximately 90% of the time while working on a personal computer.
• Occasionally lifting weight up to sixty (60) pounds or less.
• Climbing several flights of stairs and ladders.
• Occasionally bending, twisting, and turning while lifting weights of less than fifty (50) pounds.
• Walking of two (2) or more miles per day.
• Working at heights, in confined spaces, and at temperatures from -20 to +100 degrees.
• Standing for extended periods of time.
• Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Using hand and power tools.

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.