Operations Engineering Intern - Summer 2027

POET; Sioux Falls (SD); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Wellness program

On-site fitness centers

Fitness reimbursements

Job summary

POET, based in Sioux Falls, SD, seeks an Operations Engineering Intern to support the engineering team in safe and efficient bioprocessing operations. You will analyze data, develop reports, and help drive improvement projects on-site at POET facilities.

Ideal candidates are engineering juniors or seniors with strong organization, communication, teamwork, and adaptability, plus familiarity with Microsoft Office and a drive to learn new tools. Travel to facilities may be required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Junior or senior majoring in an accredited Engineering program.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills.
• Ability to understand the technical and day-to-day operation of a bioprocessing facility.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to learn new programs.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the operations oversight of POET bioprocessing facilities.
• Complete data analysis of process information.
• Recommend improvements to POET bioprocessing facilities’ processes.
• Develop implementation plans for continuous improvement projects.
• Travel to bioprocessing facilities for training, project analysis, and meetings.
• 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.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Teamwork

Adaptability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Engineering major (Junior or Senior)

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

ABOUT POETAt 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-five 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.CULTURE IS KING AT POETWe’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!JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIESThe Operations Engineering Intern will assist the Operations Engineering team in supporting the safe and efficient operation of the bioprocessing facilities. The Operations Engineering Intern will be responsible for analyzing data, developing reports, suggesting improvements, and facilitating the implementation of projects. The Intern must be able to effectively work both independently and in a team environment, which may include either on-site with the operations team or with contacts at the bioprocessing facilities.This is an on-site role located at POET’s corporate headquarters in Sioux Falls, SD. Responsibilities include:Assist with the operations oversight of POET bioprocessing facilities.Complete data analysis of process information.Recommend improvements to POET bioprocessing facilities’ processes.Develop implementation plans for continuous improvement projects.Travel to bioprocessing facilities for training, project analysis, and meetings.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 skills may be put to a lot of other uses!The POET Never Satisfied Internship openings are for Summer 2027. We post Internships in early September with the intention of having interns selected by November 1st.QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLSHigh school diploma or equivalent required.Junior or senior level status majoring in an accredited Engineering program.Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills as well as the ability to adapt to change.Ability to understand the technical and day-to-day operation of a bioprocessing facility.Knowledge of the basics of Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to learn new programs.A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL HAVEHigh level of personal integrityInterpersonal skills – ability to effectively interact with individuals at all levels within/outside the organizationDemonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skillsAbility to embrace and promote changeInnovative mindsetAbility to think objectivelyCapability to navigate complex and unpredictable circumstancesAbility to work in a team environmentWORK ENVIRONMENTUp to 25% travel will be part of the norm for this position to visit the bioprocessing facilities, attend meetings, and other 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.GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIESAt 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.PERKSA multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spirituallyOn-site fitness centers or fitness reimbursementsSafety and cold-weather gear reimbursementsPOET is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, abilities, merit, and other legitimate business factors, without regard to any legally protected characteristic. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, working conditions, promotion, and termination.