Plant Operator Intern

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!

JOB SUMMARY

The Plant Technician/Operator Intern will learn the operation of plant processing equipment and perform routine basic maintenance in a highly automated chemical facility. In the area of maintenance, Plant Technician Interns will learn the safe and efficient maintenance, basic repair, and cleaning of equipment associated with bioprocessing processes. At times, Plant Technician/Operator Interns may be asked to assist Maintenance Technicians in more technical and complex maintenance procedures. Team members in this position are will gain knowledge of the process flow, computerized equipment, and be aware of hazards associated with the process as well as learn, understand, and execute standard operating procedures (SOPs). Continuous plant operation may require 12-hour shift work. Plant Technician/Operator Intern must be able to adapt to 12-hour workdays and be able to meet call-in requirements if needed.

DURING A TYPICAL DAY (IF THERE IS ONE)…

• Use your knowledge to maintain and operate all processes associated with the plant where required.
• Perform maintenance and basic repairs of plant equipment and document these activities.
• Operate the DCS (Distributed Control System) for the plant.
• Safely perform basic electrical troubleshooting.
• Follow procedures for plant start-up, shut-down, cleaning, and batching.
• Maintain accurate and timely logs.
• Collect and test quality control samples, interpret QA/QC results and make adjustments to optimize plant operations, timely and accurately document results and enter results into our data collection system, PI.
• Assist in removal, installation, rebuild, and performance of preventive and predictive maintenance on all equipment associated with plant processes.
• Help to keep your plant clean by following the sanitation schedule and completing all tasks as assigned.
• Notify the management team of safety, environmental, quality and production concerns, problems and opportunities.
• Keep your plant safe by fostering a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance.
• 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.
• Currently attending accredited learning institution related to bio-processing, energy production, or plant maintenance.
• Working knowledge in math, reading comprehension and mechanical reasoning required.
• Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems.
• Experience with software systems, such as Maximo, preferred.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills as well as the ability to embrace change.
• You have the ability to understand technical and day to day operation of a bioprocessing facility.
• You know the basics of Microsoft Office Suite. You’re capable of learning new programs.

GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

At POET 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.

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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Specific physical requirements may include:
  • Occasionally lifting weight up to sixty (60) pounds.
  • Climbing several flights of stairs and ladders.
  • Opening valves. o Occasionally bending, twisting and turning while lifting weight of less than fifty (50) pounds.
  • Data entry while seated for greater than one (1) hour.
  • Walking up to two (2) or more miles per day.
  • Pushing brooms, shovels, etc.
  • 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.