Research Intern - Summer

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-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!

At POET Research Inc., our vision is to discover and deliver a robust portfolio of high value process and product innovations that utilize renewable resources as effectively as possible. The Research Intern will work on various laboratory research and/or pilot scale projects to drive improvement in POET’s technology. The intern will have the responsibility to execute all aspects of projects resulting in commercial value for POET.

Communication and cooperation with POET team members is critical to ensure project success. The Research Intern may interface with engineers, scientists, bioprocessing plant operators and plant maintenance crews. This is an on-site role located in Sioux Falls, SD.

Responsibilities include:

• Performing appropriate benchtop, small scale, pilot, plant, or analytical tests and trials as required.
• Work with POET Research team members to develop research plans to accomplish a commercial objective.
• Complete research plans as assigned and assist with on-site commissioning and start-up activities as needed.
• Perform data analysis, interpretation and documentation.
• Effectively communicate all issues, data, results, and accomplishments in written and verbal formats.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness.
• 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 skill 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.

High school diploma or equivalent required. Entering junior level or higher college courses majoring in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Engineering, or related curriculum. Experience working with lab equipment including spectrophotometers and general chemical assay procedures. Excellent communication skills and attention to detail. Knowledge of the basics of Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to learn new programs.

• 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

• Occasionally bending, twisting, and turning while lifting weights of less than fifty (50) pounds.
• Occasional lifting of weights greater than fifty (50) pounds.
• Data entry while seated for greater than one (1) hour.
• Standing for extended periods of time.
• Performing mechanical repair/maintenance of equipment.
• Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Up to 20% travel may…