Purchasing Specialist

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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-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.

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  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!

The Purchasing Specialist is responsible for the execution of creating purchase orders for spare parts, chemicals and equipment for 35 POET Bioprocessing Facilities. You will place, confirm and track purchase orders with exceptional customer service to both internal and external stakeholders. This is an on‑site role located in Sioux Falls or a POET Bioprocessing Facility.

Responsibilities include:

• Processing purchase requisitions with proper authorization and workflow.
• Obtaining quotes, placing purchase orders and gathering appropriate documentation for confirmation.
• Investigating discrepancies between purchase order, receipt and invoice.
• Communicating with suppliers, internal stakeholders and leadership to resolve issues in the purchasing process.
• Working with corporate and site inventory teams on Item Master updates as needed.
• Assisting with updating and developing standard operating procedures and work instructions for the business supporting the purchasing process.
• Providing backup support to other purchasing specialists to assist in coverage.
• Negotiating basic purchase order details and expectations.
• Gaining an understanding of the Procurement function within POET to round out knowledge of workflows and process.
• Since we’re all about teamwork and getting the job done, your skills may be put to a lot of other uses!

• Associates degree or above is preferred, however, relevant experience in a related field such as Business Administration, Supply Chain Management or Information Technology is required.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience is strongly preferred for the role.
• Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent organization and time management skills with a sense of urgency that drive results.
• Self‑motivated with willingness to embrace change and pivot strategy as needed.
• Knowledge of the basics of the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of IBM Maximo and OnBase is a plus.

• High level of personal integrity
• Interpersonal skills – ability to effectively interact with individuals at all levels within/outside the organization
• Demonstrated problem‑solving and critical thinking skills
• Ability to embrace and promote change
• Innovative mindset
• Ability to think objectively
• Self‑awareness in the face of uncertainty
• Ability to work in a team environment

• Up to 10% travel will be part of the norm for this position to visit POET bioprocessing facilities, vendor meetings, and site visits. At times, overnight travel may be required.
• This position operates in an office environment, working at a personal computer where you may sit or stand. Most of our Sioux Falls office workspace consists of an open‑concept design intended to promote open communication and collaboration.

At 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…