Environmental Engineering 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!

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 Environmental Engineering Intern will assist the POET Biorefining team supporting the safe and efficient operation of the biorefineries while meeting environmental requirements. The Environmental Engineering Intern will be responsible for analyzing data and permits, developing reports, suggesting improvements or modifications, and facilitating the implementation of projects.  The Environmental Engineering Intern must be able to effectively work in a team environment both on site with the operations team as well as with contacts at the biorefineries.

DURING A TYPICAL DAY (IF THERE IS ONE)…

• Assist with the environmental compliance of POET Bioprocessing.
• Assist with analysis of data and recommend improvements to biorefinery environmental programs.
• Develop implementation plans for continuous improvement projects.
• Travel to biorefineries will be required 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!

STRENGTHS OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

• Junior or Senior level status pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in a Science or Engineering or related program.
• 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.
• You know the basics of Microsoft Office Suite. You’re capable of learning new programs.

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.  The team member may be exposed to high noise levels, moving mechanical parts, dusty conditions, internal and external temperature/weather conditions, and chemicals.
• Some travel may be required.
• Specific physical requirements may include:

• Occasionally lifting weight up to sixty (60) pounds.
• Climbing several flights of stairs and ladders.
• Opening valves.
• 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.