Material Handler

Job Summary

The Material Handler is responsible for loading dried distillers' grains, ethanol, corn oil, wet cake feed, distiller’s syrup, or biomass into trucks and rail cars. Team members use mechanical equipment, meters or scales as well as computers and software equipment to ensure timely delivery and product safety. The role may also include grading grain products or biomass based on training.

Schedule:

Four days on, four days off, 6AM‑6PM. This is an on‑site role located in Fairbank, IA.

• Load trucks and rail cars with feed and fuel products using mechanical equipment, meters, and scales to ensure timely delivery of products.
• Assist with grain product or biomass and supply truck unloading functions.
• Complete grading of grain products or biomass using provided training.
• Operate large machinery and equipment; may be required to obtain DOT certification.
• Maintain a clean work area and adhere to POET’s confined space procedures.
• Complete HAZMAT paperwork when necessary.
• Learn, maintain, and operate all processes associated with the grains operation including repair and maintenance.
• Remove, install, rebuild, lubricate, and clean all equipment associated with the grains process.
• Perform preventative maintenance tasks as directed.
• Work outdoors, weekends, and holidays; must meet call‑in requirements and work extended hours as necessary.
• Assist with running the bioprocessing facility scale house and learn required software applications.
• Maintain confidentiality and operate in an honest and ethical manner.
• Foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance at all times.
• Maintain a team environment and champion POET in the community.
• Advance the food safety and quality of POET’s products and processes.
• Possibly be assigned other tasks related to teamwork and overall operations.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Material Handler I:
  No experience required;
  Material Handler II: documented successful performance as a Material Handler I or equivalent work experience required.
• Experience and knowledge in heavy machinery, skid loaders, or other material‑moving equipment preferred.
• Experience in truck loading and unloading, including rail tank car and tanker truck preferred.
• DOT certification preferred.
• Basic Microsoft Office Suite knowledge and ability to learn new programs.
• High level of personal integrity.
• Interpersonal skills — ability to effectively interact with individuals at all levels.
• Demonstrated problem‑solving and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to embrace and promote change.
• Innovative mindset.
• Objectively think.
• Excellent organizational, time‑management, and communication skills.
• Self‑awareness in the face of uncertainty.
• Team‑oriented.

• 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 Day1, plus a biweekly PTO accrual program.
• Comprehensive benefits package: health, dental, vision insurance for individuals and families; generous employer Health Savings Account contribution.
• Competitive pay, including shift premium pay for qualifying positions.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Relocation assistance and bonus programs for qualifying positions and/or locations.
• Safety and cold‑weather gear reimbursements.
• Discounted home and auto insurance.
• Multifaceted wellness program encompassing mental, physical, and spiritual health.
• Family‑first culture with onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements.

Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, steel‑toed boots, self‑contained breathing system, hazardous material suit, hearing protection, and harness.

• Work at extreme heights (≈150ft), in confined spaces, and in extreme temperatures from –20°F to +100°F, both indoors and outdoors.
• Use hand tools, skid loader, scoop shovels, pipe wrenches, impact wrench, air hose, and shuttle wagon, with training provided.
• Operate machinery such as a payloader and Track mobile for extended periods.
• Frequently climb a step ladder/stairs; walk indoors…